As mechanical engineering senior Rkia Talbi prepares for her final days at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville, she is being recognized for her academic success and professional experience through two scholarships. Talbi, an Onalaska, Wisconsin native, was selected as the “Top Draft Pick” at the manufacturing career fair Internship Draft Day and named one of two recipients of the 2020 Alliant Energy Erroll B. Davis, Jr. Academic Achievement Award.
“I’m very thankful, surprised and shocked,” said Talbi. “It’s a great way to end [my college career] and start into the workforce.”
On Nov. 6, the Alliant Energy Foundation held a virtual ceremony for recipients from across the UW System. Dr. Kristina Fields, professor in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at UW-Platteville, was also recognized for receiving the Alliant Energy James R. Underkofler Excellence in Teaching Award.
According to the UW System, the Erroll B. Davis, Jr. Academic Achievement Awards honor the outstanding scholarship and community service of undergraduate students from traditionally under-represented minority groups pursuing a degree in business or engineering at UW-Madison and UW-Platteville.
“I spent a lot of time on campus trying to create an inclusive environment,” said Talbi. “I try my hardest to make sure everyone’s opinion and voices are heard. I try to push myself and strive. I’m happy it didn’t go unnoticed. It means a lot to me to be recognized because it’s something I’m actively trying to do every day.”
Throughout her academic career, Talbi notes she has been dedicated to excelling in the classroom. She said she was able to achieve success with the help of her peers, instructors, and her involvement with on-campus organizations including the Women in STEM Program.
“I work really hard to maintain good grades – I have all these goals and I’m trying my hardest to get there,” she said. “Ever since I was a freshman I was volunteering at outreach events. As I got older, I started working within Women in STEM as an assistant; last year I was a mentor. It was a really great experience and through it I made a lot of friendships.”
Soon after her recognition from the UW System, Talbi earned the title of most valuable interview by manufacturing companies who participated in Internship Draft Day on Nov. 10. The event is typically held at Lambeau Field, but due to COVID-19 it was held virtually. During the annual event, attendees are able to network and schedule 15-minute interviews with manufacturing companies of their choice.
“I interviewed with multiple companies,” Talbi said. “The companies score you if they would want you to come back for another interview. You receive more points if you were their best candidate of the day.”
This is Talbi’s third year participating in Internship Draft Day. Last year, Talbi received the number one draft from UW-Platteville, but this year she received the surprise of hearing her name being called by Green Bay Packers President and CEO Mark Murphy as the 2020 overall Top Draft Pick.
“It’s flattering that managers in engineering were impressed by my interviewing skills and resumé,” she said. “It’s been a unique experience being able to network and to learn about job opportunities. I wasn’t expecting a scholarship out of it. I enjoy making connections and trying to meet as many people within the industry.”
As Talbi approaches graduation day on Saturday, Dec. 12 she’s already making plans for her future. She has accepted a full-time position as a structures test engineer with the Boeing Company in St. Louis, Missouri.
“I’m thankful to have the opportunity to work at Boeing, and I look forward to seeing what I can accomplish there,” said Talbi. “Thank you to everyone who has supported me all these years with my time at UW-Platteville. I appreciate all the support I have gotten. I’m going to miss everyone when I’m gone.”