2017 Tillman Scholar
Joining the Army at the age of seventeen, Zachary has always placed others before himself. As an Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Technician in the Army he gained an understanding and appreciation for life that he had previously taken for granted. After leaving active duty, he aims to create a career that puts veterans first.
Upon arrival to Nebraska, Zachary enrolled at University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s Electrical Engineering program, and simultaneously began volunteering as an Emergency Medical Technician and firefighter. Through these experiences, he fell in love with healthcare, and Zachary focused his attention on bridging the gap between engineering and medicine. As a research assistant with the Biomechanics Department at the University of Nebraska, Zachary is working on a project to improve lower-limb prosthetic devices. In addition to his academics, Zachary continued service to his country by enlisting in the Nebraska Air Force National Guard where he still serves as an EOD Technician. He is also the president of the Student Veteran Organization where he assists veterans transitioning from active duty. His goal is to obtain an MD/PhD to pursue a clinical-based research career that is focused on improving the lives of veterans who suffer from debilitating wounds.