Emily Curtis, a 2010 biology alumna of Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology, has forged an international career in intellectual property law, applying her scientific mindset to protect innovations for a global automotive company from Luxembourg, Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology reported. Her path illustrates how a STEM education in Terre Haute can lead to diverse and globally-focused professional opportunities, moving from laboratory science to legal expertise.
Curtis chose Rose-Hulman because she was drawn to the campus community and recognized its reputation for providing a top-tier science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education. After completing her biology degree, she realized a desire to work on the business side of scientific research. This led her to pursue a master’s degree in engineering management at Rose-Hulman, where her passion for scientific problem-solving crystallized. A pivotal moment occurred while taking a Patents for Engineers class, which Emily Curtis told Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology was a "lightbulb moment" for her. She began to view the work as complex puzzles, finding satisfaction in assembling the pieces, which ultimately guided her decision to pursue a law degree.
With this new direction, Curtis enrolled in George Washington Law School in Washington, D.C., specifically choosing the institution for its strong programs in patent and intellectual property law. Her career in the automotive glass sector commenced in 2018, initially with Carlex Glass American LLC. She now serves as an intellectual property attorney for Webasto Luxembourg, a global automotive company. Despite the differences from traditional science careers, Curtis consistently identifies numerous parallels and regularly applies the knowledge and skills gained during her time at Rose-Hulman to her daily legal practice. She emphasizes that the scientific approach to problem-solving and the critical thinking required for new technologies have been fundamental to her professional journey.
Beyond her academic pursuits, Curtis was an active member of various campus organizations during her undergraduate years at Rose-Hulman. She also contributed to Housing and Residential Life, holding positions as both a resident advisor and a sophomore advisor. These experiences proved invaluable, helping her cultivate essential teamwork skills that she utilizes daily in her current role at Webasto. She deeply values the collaborative aspect of her work, enjoying discussions with the engineers on her team. This collaborative environment allows her to educate them on patent processes while simultaneously learning from their engineering insights.
Curtis also credits Rose-Hulman with fostering her personal growth, particularly in developing confidence and the freedom to express her authentic self. These foundational skills empowered her to proactively seek out learning and growth opportunities, including the significant decision to relocate to Europe independently to embark on a new professional chapter. Her journey exemplifies how a strong educational foundation can enable individuals to adapt, innovate, and thrive in evolving global landscapes.
