When Hugo Ruiz Espejo chose Lincoln Memorial University, he was not just selecting a place to earn an engineering degree. He was stepping into an opportunity to help shape a brand-new program while pursuing his passion for tennis and engineering on an international stage.
Originally from Spain, Ruiz Espejo knew early on that engineering was the path he wanted to follow. When the chance arose to study engineering in the United States while competing in collegiate tennis, LMU quickly rose to the top of his list.
“I was very clear that I wanted to study [civil] engineering, and when the opportunity came up to study in another country while playing tennis, I didn’t think twice,” Ruiz Espejo said. “Several universities reached out, but LMU really stood out. I liked the idea of being part of the first class of the engineering program, and it also had a strong tennis team.”
That decision would later open the door to a hands-on internship with the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT), where Ruiz Espejo gained experience both in the office and in the field.
“No two days were the same,” he explained. “I usually started the day at the office attending meetings with contractors, inspectors, and project engineers. In the afternoons, we’d visit active project sites, which helped me understand how everything actually works in the field.”
One project that left a lasting impression was work on a bridge on I-275 in Knox County.
“When I arrived, the project was in its early stages, so I was able to see the entire process, from the initial meetings to its inauguration,” Ruiz Espejo said. “The project was spectacular because the process took a few months, but the construction was completed in two weekends. I was very surprised that an interstate project could be carried out so quickly.”
Beyond observing and assisting with projects, Ruiz Espejo also made a lasting contribution of his own. While navigating multiple project sites across the state, he realized how difficult it was to keep track of locations, especially for someone new to the area. He came up with a solution, and TDOT took notice.
“That’s how the idea for the interactive map started,” he explained. “At first, it was just for me. But then I thought it could be useful for the public, too.”
The map displays active TDOT projects across Tennessee using color-coded pins to show whether projects are completed, in progress, or upcoming. Clicking a pin reveals detailed project information, including location, timeline, and construction details. The tool has since been used as a practical resource within the department.
“Hugo took it upon himself to identify an area of need on our website and create a project map with critical data attached to each location. [He] left us with detailed instructions on how to manipulate and manage the map. He did an excellent job throughout his time as a TDOT intern,” said TDOT manager Jason Sholtz.
“Hugo’s initiative is exactly what we hope to see from our engineering students,” said Dr. Ryan Overton, dean of the LMU School of Engineering. “He identified a real problem, developed a practical solution, and created something with immediate real-world value. That’s the kind of experience that prepares students to lead in the profession.”
The experience has also helped shape Ruiz Espejo’s post-graduation goals. He anticipates graduating in May 2026 and hopes to return to TDOT through its Graduate Transportation Engineer (GTE) program, a two-year rotational experience designed to expose engineers to multiple areas within the organization.
For other LMU students hoping to land similar opportunities, his advice is straightforward: “Be patient. You have to take the first steps, apply, and talk to as many people as you can,” he said. “I think being at LMU really helped me land my internship. I spent a lot of time applying to different companies and wasn't getting anywhere. In the end, I decided to contact the Career Services department, and honestly, it was thanks to [them] that the TDOT opportunity came up.”
Overton says stories like Ruiz Espejo’s demonstrate the growing impact of LMU’s School of Engineering.
“Hugo represents the curiosity, work ethic, and innovation we strive to instill in our students,” Overton said. “His success reflects not only his dedication, but also the strength of our program and the support systems we’ve built to help students succeed.”
For more information about the LMU School of Engineering, visit lmunet.edu/school-of-engineering/ or contact Dr. Overton at ryan.overton@lmunet.edu.
Lincoln Memorial University is a values-based learning community dedicated to providing educational experiences in the liberal arts and professional studies. The university’s main campus is located in Harrogate, Tennessee. For more information about undergraduate and graduate programs, contact the Office of Admissions at 423-869-6280 or email admissions@lmunet.edu.
