MESA Impact Story

Dylan Moriarty – Arizona MESA

Geoscience Engineer
Sandia National Laboratories

From the Navajo Nation in Arizona to the halls of Stanford University, Dylan Moriarty’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of education and mentorship, with roots in that included his participation in MESA.

Dylan’s MESA odyssey began at Ganado Middle School, where he first encountered the exhilarating world of STEM through Arizona MESA Day at the University of Arizona. It was here that Dylan’s passion for engineering was ignited, marking his inaugural visit to a college campus—a pivotal moment that would later shape his academic trajectory.

Years later, inspired by his former MESA advisor and 7th-grade math teacher, Amanda Tachine, Dylan found himself recruited to the University of Arizona. There, he pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, laying the groundwork for his future endeavors.

Throughout his college journey, Dylan actively engaged with various organizations such as the American Indian Science and Engineering Society (AISES), the Society for the Advancement of Chicanos and Native Americans in Science (SACNAS), and the Office of Early Academic Outreach at the University of Arizona where he often volunteered to assist with Arizona MESA events. Dylan also later became involved with the American Indian Outreach Committee at Sandia Labs. These affiliations not only enriched his academic experience but also fostered a sense of community and identity crucial to his growth.

Dylan’s career path was shaped by transformative experiences, such as participating in the Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) program at UofA’s McNair Program. This pivotal internship introduced him to the world of research, profoundly altering his professional trajectory and reinforcing his commitment to harnessing data to tell truthful and impactful stories.

Upon graduation, Dylan’s thirst for knowledge led him to Stanford University, where he earned a Master’s degree in Energy Resources Engineering. His academic achievements were complemented by significant recognitions, including the prestigious title of “2019 Most Promising Engineer/Scientist” awarded by the American Indian Science and Engineering Society (AISES).

Today, as a geoscience engineer at Sandia National Laboratories, Dylan Moriarty blends his technical acumen with his innate storytelling abilities. He views data not just as numbers but as narratives waiting to be told accurately and compellingly. Whether crafting mathematical models or spinning tales in his Dungeons & Dragons campaign, Dylan taps into his creative side to innovate and communicate complex ideas.

Dylan Moriarty stands as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring engineers and scientists, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds. In Dylan Moriarty, the world of STEM has found not just an engineer, but a visionary who weaves creativity and precision into every narrative he crafts, shaping a future where science and storytelling converge seamlessly. At the end of the day, Dylan values his role as husband and father.

Learn more about Arizona MESA
MESA USA Impact Stories were inspired by Arizona MESA’s Alumni Stories project.