Daniel Halvorson graduated from Bethany Lutheran College in 2018 with a major in Engineering Sciences, joining the inaugural cohort of the program. He had previously been part of the Post-Secondary Enrollment Option (PSEO) during high school and chose to remain at Bethany when the new degree launched. The opportunity to stay at a college he valued while pursuing a field he was passionate about proved to be a pivotal moment in his education.

Daniel’s passion for engineering quickly translated into real-world innovation. Working alongside two fellow entrepreneurs, he helped develop a prototype for an industrial 3D printer. As he put it, “As a lifelong tinkerer, I feel like I’m living the dream! … our first industrial prototype is nearly finished.” The collaborative project was not only a technical achievement but also the foundation for a startup venture. His experiences at Bethany also included an internship with a local engineering firm, which led to a full-time position after graduation. He was soon applying his skills in HVAC design, simulations, and plumbing system planning—bringing classroom learning directly into practice.

Beyond the lab and workplace, Daniel was deeply involved in Bethany’s musical community. A multi-instrumentalist, he performed with several ensembles and participated in campus music projects. “Some of my favorite memories come from involvement in various music ensembles and projects here,” he shared, highlighting the balance he maintained between technical pursuits and artistic expression.

Daniel’s story is a strong example of the versatility and depth of a Bethany education. From pioneering a new academic program to blending innovation with creativity, he represents the kind of graduate who is prepared not just for a job, but for a meaningful life shaped by purpose and curiosity.