The scholarship includes an annual stipend, internship, mentorship and employment with the Department of Defense after graduation.
Industrial engineering doctoral student Jean-Philippe Perrault ’06 ’14MBA was one of three engineering students selected for the Department of Defense (DOD) Science, Mathematics and Research for Transformation (SMART) Scholarship-for-Service Program.
Unlike a typical scholarship that only covers the cost of tuition and fees, the SMART scholarship also provides an annual stipend, a summer internship, an experienced mentor and guaranteed employment with the DOD after graduation.
The program is open to undergraduate and graduate students pursuing STEM degrees who can commit to one year of employment with the DOD upon graduation. The goal is to develop a talent pipeline of technically proficient professionals who can meet the nation’s security needs.
Perrault is already employed with the DOD. He works as an engineering supervisor for the Naval Air Warfare Center Training Systems Division (NAWCTSD). He’s also a father of five, a chess coach an active community volunteer and a doctoral student. With a very full schedule, the DOD SMART Scholarship was a practical choice because it designates study time during work hours, alleviating the pressure of pursuing a Ph.D.
After earning a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering and a master’s degree in business administration, Perrault returned to UCF in Fall 2024 to continue his studies. He also serves on the advisory board for the Department of Industrial Engineering and Management Systems and with the encouragement of Professor Luis Rabelo, joined the industrial engineering doctoral program’s systems engineering track.
Perrault’s research focuses on the development of a theoretical framework to adopt AI technology in military training systems. He says the SMART scholarship program will help him deepen his technical knowledge and in turn, inform his research.
“Beyond technical skills, I aim to gain a comprehensive understanding of how research translates into real-world applications within the DOD, including navigating the complexities of defense innovation and collaboration,” Perrault says. “I also look forward to developing leadership, project management and interdisciplinary collaboration skills that will enable me to contribute effectively to the defense community both during and after my scholarship.”
Perrault plans to continue working for the NAWCTSD but hopes to strengthen the collaborative relationship the agency has with UCF. As a three-time alum, he says that some of his most cherished memories were formed at UCF — memories of friendship, hard work and achievements.
“As a continually growing university located close to home, UCF has played a significant role in shaping my professional journey,” Perrault says. “My success is largely attributed to the comprehensive education and experiences I gained here — the coursework, laboratories, professors and student support services all contributed to my development as a leader within our local community.”