Wyatt Tunstall

For Wyatt Tunstall, a junior chemical engineering major at Tennessee Tech, environmental science is more than just a field of study—it’s a passion that has defined his college journey.

“I’m really passionate about the environment and environmental health,” he said. “I first started in environmental engineering but switched to chemical engineering to gain a deeper understanding of the science behind making meaningful environmental changes.”

Beyond academics, Tunstall has embraced campus life in many ways.  As a member of Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity, a Trailblazer, Mr. Tennessee Tech, and active participant in campus ministries, he has built strong connections and leadership skills.

“Every day brings something new,” he said. “Being involved on campus has helped me grow and opened opportunities I never expected.”

His dedication has not gone unnoticed. Tunstall was honored as Student of the Month from the Office of Student Affairs and crowned Mr. Tennessee Tech—recognitions that he humbly attributes to support of those around him.

"Having friends who believe in you and want to see you succeed makes all the difference,” he said.

Tunstall also credits Tennessee Tech’s Center for Career Development for helping him take his professional aspirations to the next level.  

“The resume workshops were a game-changer,” Tunstall explained. “I asked countless  people to review my resume, and each person offered a different perspective and helped me improve.”

Attending the engineering career fair was a pivotal experience for him. With over 250 companies in attendance, it initially felt overwhelming, but soon, he found his stride.  

“At first, it was nerve-wracking,” Tunstall admitted. “But after a few conversations, I gained confidence and actually started to enjoy the process.”

One of those conversations led directly to his internship at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, where he worked on environmental cleanup projects focused on removing radioactive contaminants from water.

“I was removing harmful elements like cesium and strontium using innovative techniques,” he said. “It was really cool to see how science can directly impact environmental health.”

His experience at Oak Ridge inspired him to pursue research opportunities within the chemistry department at Tech. Now, he is preparing to publish his second research paper, further deepening his expertise in environmental solutions.

Tunstall said that Tennessee Tech has offered him and other student’s unique opportunities to explore their interest and develop professionally.  

“The opportunities and resources here are incredible,” he emphasized. “Even though we’re a smaller school, we have to the same opportunities as larger universities, but with a more personal touch.”

With his internship and research experiences paving the way, Tunstall aims to launch his own environmental resource company to address pressing environmental challenges.

“I’m learning that success isn’t just about what a university provides,” he said. “It’s about how you choose to advantage of the resources and opportunities available to you.”