Engineering a New Future: Benjamin Mills
Publication Date: December 11, 2025
Author: Jesus A. Reina
Photo Caption: From taking things apart as a kid to rebuilding his future as an engineer, Benjamin Mills stands at the turning point his hard work created.
Photo Credit: Jesus A. Reina
When Benjamin David Mills began his engineering journey at Texas A&M University–Kingsville, he brought with him not only determination but years of hands-on experience and a desire to reshape his future. From Corpus Christi, Mills is majoring in mechanical engineering with a minor in aerospace—fields that connect deeply to the curiosity he has carried since childhood.
“I was the kid who took all his toys apart,” he said. But engineering wasn’t always part of the plan. For years, Mills believed college wasn’t in his future. That changed in 2018 when he took a position as a site manager at the OXEA refinery in Bishop. There, he discovered he was not only capable of leadership—he excelled in it. After a job loss and return to the refinery as a mechanic and crane operator, a new possibility emerged. The seed was planted.
Soon after, he made the decision that would set his life on a new trajectory: enrolling in mechanical engineering. “I am very glad I chose to take the leap of faith and pursue it,” Mills said.
Choosing Texas A&M–Kingsville was an easy decision. He wanted to remain close to home, and he had always heard that Kingsville’s engineering programs were among the strongest in South Texas. Once on campus, his single goal was simple—learn everything he could. Over time, that goal sharpened into a deeper purpose as coursework, faculty mentorship, and peer collaboration shaped his confidence and direction.
Photo Caption: Dean Heidi A. Taboada congratulates Distinguished Student Benjamin Mills, whose path from the workforce to engineering excellence embodies the spirit of perseverance.
Photo Credit: Jesus A. Reina.
Mills’ path was not without hardship. Academic struggles, financial challenges, and the loss of loved ones tested him. Yet each obstacle strengthened his resolve and deepened his belief that perseverance, focus, and faith can carry a person forward.
His efforts paid off. Internships with ExxonMobil led to a full-time offer as a subsea hardware engineer at the Houston campus. Faculty such as Dr. Sangsoo Lee and Dr. Hong Zhou, along with his senior design group, played meaningful roles in his success.
Receiving the Distinguished Student Award is, for Mills, an honor reflecting years of dedication and growth. His advice to future engineers is simple: hold onto your goals, stay committed, and trust that every challenge is shaping you for what comes next.
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Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering
Categories: Undergraduate, Achievement, Award