Angwin wins Washington Prize

Ellen Angwin, a senior with a dual major in materials science and engineering (MSE) and engineering and public policy (EPP), has been selected as the first place winner of the 2026 George Washington Prize. The award is given annually in recognition of academic excellence, commitment to service, and leadership.

Ellen chose to attend Carnegie Mellon because she wanted to study sustainable materials, and as her time as a student progressed, she developed a keen interest in green steel. The catalyst for studying steel came from a study abroad experience in Switzerland, where she took an in-depth metallurgy course. 

“Taking that course ignited my interest in metal properties and opened my eyes to the research that is being done on sustainability in metals manufacturing. It particularly sparked my interest in the developments in green steel that are happening in both industry and academia.” 

Last year, Angwin was part of the inaugural cohort of PITA Fellows, through which she had the opportunity to conduct research alongside mechanical engineering professor Sneha Narra, learning to use wire arc additive manufacturing equipment. The research experience left her well-positioned to take on an internship at Nucor Steel last summer, where she worked on a project related to the property variation of steel sheets caused by different annealing cycles. The opportunity opened up a professional pathway for her, as she has received and accepted a job at Nucor Steel Indiana as a Product Metallurgist. 

The communities I have been part of around campus have played a huge role in my college experience.

Ellen Angwin, MSE/EPP Student

“I’m excited to be working for a company that is committed to decarbonization and improving the sustainability of steel production,” said Angwin. 

Just as impressive as Angwin’s academic career at Carnegie Mellon is her involvement in the campus community. After playing one year of varsity basketball for the Tartans, Ellen facilitated the development of a club basketball team, which has grown to include more than 20 players from across campus who compete in a local collegiate league. She also works for CMU Athletics as an intramural referee, student supervisor, and varsity basketball scorekeeper. She’s also looking forward to continuing her role as a push captain for the Student Dormitory Council (SDC) buggy team at this year’s Carnival. 

“Being active in student activities and organizations has made my experience at CMU so incredible. The communities I have been part of around campus have played a huge role in my college experience, allowing me to build friendships, explore new things, and get involved in campus life outside of academics.”