Isha Tyle earned her degree in Mechanical Engineering in December 2022, with a minor from the Hoeft Technology and Management Program. During her 4.5 years in MechSE, she was deeply involved across campus – holding leadership positions with the Society of Women Engineering (SWE), American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), Women in Mechanical Science and Engineering (WiM, Engineering Open House (EOH), GLOBE, and T&M. She also completed four internships in different industries, each one adding new skills and perspectives to her engineering toolkit.
Today, Isha is a Delivery Lead at United Airlines’ Airshop Innovation Lab, where she manages proof-of-concept projects for the lab’s Research & Development initiatives. Her work includes collaborating with teams across United’s Digital Technology department and Commercial stakeholders to design, prototype, and implement cutting-edge innovations that improve operations and customer experience.
In her first 6-8 months at United, she also served as the Community Lead for the Innovate Program, planning educational tours to four United sites for more than 30 associates and organizing bonding events for over 60 participants. She currently serves as PR & Communication Chair for United’s multicultural business resource group, UNITE, leading strategy to reach more than 7,000 members.
Her early career has already been marked by standout moments, including winning the ECDLP Expo Trailblazer in Tech Award and presenting directly to United Airlines COO Toby Enqvist on innovative projects like 3D printed dishware and refractometer lid replacements.
Lessons from Grainger
When reflecting on her time at Illinois, Isha credits mentors and experiences that shaped her path – particularly her relationship with Kea Evans from Caterpillar and WiM, whose guidance and friendship have lasted beyond graduation. She also treasures memories of attending SWE conferences (“such good networking and bonding with friends”), traveling to Brazil for the T&M case study competitors in 2020 and winning first place, and exploring a quiet summer campus while interning at Caterpillar in Research Park.
Advice for the Next Generation
Isha encourages incoming women in engineering to prioritize both personal well-being and professional growth.
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Prioritize self-care. “Your health directly impacts your performance. Make time to rest, eat well, exercise, and enjoy activities outside of class–it will help you stay balanced and energized."
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Embrace opportunities. “Explore organizations, events, and experiences beyond your coursework. The earlier you get involved, the more skills, connections, and confidence you’ll build.”
She also recommends joining women’s engineering organizations on campus: “They’re incredibly welcoming and will quickly become a vital support system for some of your closest friends.”