When a 3D printer jams, a CNC machine needs attention or a student project does not work as planned, Derrick Thompson sees more than a problem to fix.
He sees an opportunity for students to learn.
As a research and instructional equipment technologist II in Michigan State University’s Technology Engineering degree program, known as TechE, Thompson supports faculty and students by keeping instructional equipment reliable, safe and ready for use. His work includes repairing, maintaining and upgrading equipment across the program, including 3D printers, CNC machines, soldering equipment and electrical systems.
“My goal is to help create learning environments where students can actively engage, experiment and succeed,” Thompson said. “Supporting innovation, consistency and hands-on education is at the core of what I do in TechE.”
His role supports a program built around learning by doing. TechE students gain experience with connected hardware, software and physical systems through projects involving robotics, automation, electronics, manufacturing and embedded cybersecurity.
A career built on solving problems
Thompson’s interest in repair began at his grandfather’s business, Thompson’s Car Clinic. There, he learned how to troubleshoot mechanical problems, serve customers and understand the daily operations of a small business in Mid-Michigan.
After high school, Thompson joined Best Buy as an MECP-certified auto technician, specializing in the installation and repair of mobile electronics systems, including audio, remote start, safety and convenience technologies. He spent eight years with the company and later led its mobile electronics sales and installation department.
He then moved into industrial controls as a control panel assembly technician for Pro-Mec Engineering, where he gained experience fabricating control panels and supporting complex automation systems.
In 2022, Thompson joined MSU’s Department of Physics and Astronomy as a research technologist II. That role allowed him to combine his industry experience with research support and hands-on training for undergraduate students.
When the opportunity to join TechE emerged, its focus on practical learning appealed to him immediately.
“What drew me to TechE was the strong commitment to hands-on learning,” Thompson said. “The program emphasizes practical, real-world experience with tools and technology, which closely aligns with my background and belief that students learn best by doing.”
Building confidence in the lab
Thompson’s responsibilities change with the needs of TechE faculty, students and lab spaces. On any given day, he may repair or upgrade equipment, adapt tools for a course, develop a solution for a student project or troubleshoot an unexpected issue.
He also works closely with faculty to support curriculum goals and ensure equipment is properly assembled and fully operational before students use it.
For Thompson, fixing equipment is only part of the job. He wants students to understand why something went wrong and develop the confidence to solve similar problems independently.
“Through working with me, I want students to develop confidence in their technical skills while learning the importance of problem-solving, adaptability and attention to detail,” Thompson said.
He encourages students to view mistakes and technical challenges as part of the engineering process. Diagnosing an issue, testing possible solutions and completing a successful repair can strengthen both technical knowledge and decision-making skills.
That approach fits TechE’s broader mission. Launched at MSU in 2024, the Bachelor of Science in Technology Engineering prepares students for careers involving connected hardware, software and physical systems.
Growing with TechE
Thompson said TechE stands out because students work directly with technology while solving practical challenges that reflect professional engineering environments.
He also values the collaboration among TechE faculty and staff.
“There is a shared focus and drive within the department to support students, refine curriculum and ensure learning experiences remain relevant and impactful,” Thompson said.
As TechE continues to expand, he looks forward to evolving lab experiences, new technologies and stronger connections between classroom projects and industry needs.
For prospective students and families, Thompson sees TechE as a place where creativity and practical skills develop together.
“I can’t express enough how unique the TechE program is for prospective students looking to unleash their creativity and learn the hands-on skills to match,” he said.
Beyond the lab
Outside of work, Thompson enjoys spending time with his wife and their three children. They often play soccer, explore their neighborhood or walk along a nearby river trail.
He also works on projects around the house and passes along the practical skills he learned early in life.
Whether he is repairing equipment in a TechE lab or completing a project at home, Thompson remains motivated by the same curiosity that began at his grandfather’s repair shop: understanding how things work and helping others build the confidence to solve problems.
Learn more about MSU’s Technology Engineering program.
Written by Austin Witt.
MSU College of Engineering Media and Public Relations page