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mgraham@wcu.edu  |  828.227.2160

Monty Graham is the Interim Director of The Rapid Center.  He began working at WCU in January of 1997.  He earned his MS in Technology at Ä¢¹½¶ÌÊÓƵin 2003, and his BS in Electronics Engineering Technology at Ä¢¹½¶ÌÊÓƵin 1995.  He has technical expertise in additive manufacturing, mechanical reverse engineering, and CNC machining.  

Monty also serves as an adjunct professor for engineering and technology, teaching courses in additive manufacturing and CNC machining. He has extensive background in prototyping and fabrication of mechanical systems ranging from consumer products to biomedical devices and automated systems.

brbanther@wcu.edu  |  828.227.2797

Brett is a Center Project Engineer at Ä¢¹½¶ÌÊÓƵ’s Rapid Center,
where he specializes in mechanical product development, CAD design, and precision fabrication using tools like 3D printing and CNC machining. He holds both a Bachelor of Science in Engineering Technology and a Master of Science in Technology from WCU.

Before joining The Rapid Center in 2011, he worked in industry as a design engineer, where he gained valuable hands-on experience developing real-world engineering solutions. Today, he draws on that background to support a wide range of applied research and development projects for industry partners and entrepreneurs. His past work includes innovative medical devices, machine design of automated for manufacturing and distilling operations, consumer products, outdoor gear, and specialized equipment for military K9 units.

A named co-inventor on multiple patents, Brett is passionate about creative problem-solving and enjoys seeing ideas come to life through prototyping and iterative design. In addition to his engineering work, he is a co-instructor of the Engineering Senior Capstone course, where he mentors student teams through the full design cycle—from concept to execution.

He is committed to supporting local industry, fostering a growth mindset, encouraging collaboration, and helping prepare the next generation of engineers for success in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.

mclare@email.wcu.edu  | 828.227.2148

Mike Clare is currently a Center Project Engineer for the Rapid Center at Western Carolina University. His current responsibilities include mechanical design, fabrication and data acquisition for engagement activities related to product design, reverse engineering, rapid prototyping, and analysis.

Mike has served as the project lead engineer for multiple engagement projects between industry and the university’s Rapid Center. He is a co-inventor on two awarded patents and has several other patent applications related to the medical industry.

In addition, he is an adjunct instructor within the School of Engineering + Technology and teaches Advanced 3D Computer Modeling and Rapid Prototyping. Prior to joining the Rapid Center, Mike worked in the injection molding industry, where he served as the Lean Manufacturing Engineer.

While in industry Mike earned his Six Sigma Blackbelt and completed numerous industrial courses in robotic programming and lean manufacturing. He has a B.S. and M.S. in Engineering Technology which he received from Ä¢¹½¶ÌÊÓƵin 2004 and 2006.

selyvers@wcu.edu | 828.227.2173

Shawn is an accomplished electrical engineer with a diverse range of technical expertise, currently serving at Ä¢¹½¶ÌÊÓƵ (WCU). As a passionate problem solver and lifelong learner, Shawn thrives in environments that blend cutting-edge technology with practical, real-world applications.

A first-generation graduate of WCU, Shawn is deeply committed to continuous personal and professional growth. Over the years, he has honed skills across various disciplines, ranging from embedded system design to advanced manufacturing techniques. This includes expertise in C/C++, Python, welding, CNC machining, 3D printing, and CAD design.

At the heart of his professional work, Shawn designs embedded products that span from initial schematic capture to software programming and system integration. He has worked on a broad spectrum of projects, collaborating directly with industry partners on cutting-edge technologies, such as radar test equipment, high-performance LED lighting, and small-scale medical devices.

In addition to his technical accomplishments, Shawn is passionate about teaching and engaging with students. Throughout the academic year, he dedicates time to imparting hands-on skills and encouraging creative, out-of-the-box thinking – key qualities that are crucial for success in the engineering and technology industries. Shawn strives to inspire the next generation of engineers, emphasizing the importance of practical experience and innovative problem solving.

Shawn’s multifaceted skill set also extends to hands-on project management, where he actively engages in machine builds and custom solutions, ensuring projects are delivered on time, on budget, and with precision.

With a relentless drive to expand his technical toolkit, Shawn is always exploring new technologies and methodologies, ensuring that he remains at the forefront of the rapidly evolving engineering landscape.

bobarnes@wcu.edu  |  828.227.2560

Brenna is the Admin Support Specialist for The Rapid Center and the Engineering Discovery Program at WCU. A proud Catamount, she graduated from Ä¢¹½¶ÌÊÓƵin 2022 with a BS in Hospitality and Tourism Management. In March 2025, Brenna joined the College of Engineering and Technology, bringing her passion for service and organization to a new role after deciding to put down permanent roots in Cullowhee.

Brenna’s day-to-day responsibilities include Capstone purchasing, product invoicing, event planning, and providing support wherever it’s needed. She enjoys being an active part of the Ä¢¹½¶ÌÊÓƵcommunity and is dedicated to giving back to the university that helped shape her journey.