Caitlyn Noble, a Florida State University Panama City student pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, was awarded the Department of Defense Science, Mathematics and Research for Transformation (SMART) Scholarship.

“This is such a great opportunity, and I am so excited,” Noble said. “I would like to express all my gratitude to everyone who has helped me receive this scholarship. I am so blessed to be surrounded by teachers, mentors, friends and coaches, who all provide me with amazing guidance, support and encouragement throughout my journey.”

Upon completing her studies, Noble will work full-time at Naval Surface Warfare Center- Panama City Division. 

The SMART Scholarship-for-Service Program is a comprehensive initiative offering students full tuition for up to five years, mentorship, summer internships, a stipend and guaranteed postgraduate employment with the Department of Defense (DoD). This unique opportunity opens doors to more than 100 cutting-edge laboratories across various branches of the DoD, providing scholars with hands-on experience in their field.

During summer internships, scholars are paired with experienced mentors to enhance their technical expertise. 

According to DoD information, the Department of Defense is the largest employer of federal scientists and engineers, with nearly 300,000 civilian STEM professionals, and plays a pivotal role in nurturing the nation’s STEM pipeline. Through initiatives like the SMART Scholarship-for-Service Program, combined with other education and outreach efforts, the DoD continues to build the future STEM workforce, upholding the nation’s scientific and technological edge.

For more details on the SMART Program and application guidelines, interested students are encouraged to visit smartscholarship.org. The application is open annually from August through December.

SMART is a science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) focused scholarship-for-service program and is one of the largest education and workforce initiatives under DoD STEM - the Department’s comprehensive K-20 STEM education and talent development effort. SMART sponsors undergraduate, graduate and doctoral study students in 24 academic disciplines critical to national security. Since its inception in 2006, the program has awarded more than 4,200 scholarships.