Montana State University junior Molly Coonfield has been awarded a $10,000 scholarship from the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers’ Power and Energy Society. The society annually grants up to 20 scholarships and provides practical experiences for undergraduates interested in careers in power and energy engineering.
Coonfield is majoring in electrical engineering with a minor in mechatronics. She has previously received eight other awards and scholarships, including the Hambly Women in Engineering Scholarship. Reflecting on her decision to attend Montana State University, Coonfield said, “I visited MSU my senior year at an MSU Friday. The ability to easily transfer credits from my high school – I have my Associate of Science degree – and the friendly professors and staff made me feel at home. As soon as the day was over, I knew I wanted to be a Bobcat.”
Since arriving at MSU, Coonfield has become active in extracurricular activities and Greek life. She currently serves as president of both MSU’s Eta Kappa Nu honors society chapter for electrical and computer engineering students and professionals, as well as the university’s swim club.
“I feel very honored to have received so many honors here at MSU,” said Coonfield, who is from Wenatchee, Washington. “Without these amazing people and opportunities, I would be nowhere near where I am today.”
Coonfield credited several individuals for their support during her studies. She noted that Stephan Warnat, associate professor of mechanical and industrial engineering, “trusted me to do research my freshman year.” She also thanked Michael Neubauer, postdoctoral researcher at MSU’s Center for Biofilm Engineering, for “helping me learn how to research,” and Cory Mettler, senior lecturer in electrical and computer engineering, for his assistance with her first 300-level class during her first semester.
“He also helped me find part of my passion in electrical engineering, which was in controls,” she said.
She further acknowledged Jim Becker, professor of electrical and computer engineering; and Jennifer Clark, assistant dean for student success and retention in the Norm Asbjornson College of Engineering.
“Molly is one of the most enthusiastic students I know in our department,” Becker said. “As her academic adviser, I have witnessed her enthusiasm over the years take focus, and it is very clear that she has developed a true passion for making contributions in the area of power and energy. I can think of no one more deserving of the IEEE PES scholarship.”
Coonfield expressed appreciation for the support she has received at Montana State University: “All of them are determined to make the student experience the best that they can,” Coonfield said. “They truly care about the students and our success.”
Upon graduating in spring 2027, Coonfield plans to pursue a career within the power and energy sector. “I am passionate about the bulk electric system and renewable energy,” she said.
