For many students, time spent with doctors and physical therapists comes after an injury. For Mitchell Steele, however, it’s an opportunity that has become a part of his everyday life.

Steele is majoring in biomedical engineering with an emphasis in biomechanics and mechanobiology, along with a minor in mathematics. In addition to his coursework, he serves as Lab Coordinator at WSU’s Motion Assessment Lab, where he studies human movement and injury and further develops his skills through the university’s Applied Learning initiative.

In this role as an Innovation Prairie Intern, which began in January 2025, Steele works closely with student-athletes, coaches, athletic trainers, physical therapists, and physicians to collect biomechanical data at Wichita State’s DARI Motion Lab. He analyzes an individual’s movement patterns, identifying inefficiencies, and assessing potential injury risk.

This data gives Steele, as well as doctors and trainers, a comprehensive understanding of the movement profile of patients. The outputs help train athletes effectively, optimize recovery from injuries, and have a complete understanding of the motion of different exercises.

“It’s always rewarding to see athletes surprised by how accurate the reports are,” Steele said. “It’s even more impactful when you show them an issue they may not have realized they had, and addressing it helps reduce their pain and prevent future injuries.”

This hands-on experience is made possible by university support. Steele’s position is funded by the Applied Learning Fund, allowing Steele to work and learn in tandem.

“This funding has allowed me to pursue a job in a relevant field, on campus, while continuing my education and supporting myself financially,” Steele said. “It makes applied learning possible without sacrificing my financial standing and compromising my financial future.”

Not only has Steele been able to develop skills specific to his field, but his applied learning experience has provided him with many networking opportunities. He has developed valuable connections in the biomedical industry, allowing him to work with elite athletes and trainers in both the NBA and NFL.

“Working in a real-world environment gives me a competitive advantage in the field. I will have years of experience coming out of school, so I can apply for higher positions that require this basic experience. This also helps give me insight into the types of places in which I want to work and how the industry operates.”

By pursuing this applied learning experience, Steele has gained the skills, knowledge, and confidence that position him for success as he prepares to enter the biomedical engineering field after graduating in May 2026.

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Wichita State's applied learning program gives students hands-on, paid experience with industry partners, helping them build careers before graduation.

For more information, contact the Shocker Career Accelerator at (316) 978-3688, SCA@wichita.edu, or visit wichita.edu/Career. You can also stop by in person at the Marcus Welcome Center, Suite 139, on the Wichita State campus.