Prosper Kpotufe
Pursuing computer
science while
building community
Boilermaker is now earning a doctorate in autonomy, intelligence and robotics
Prosper Kpotufe keeps going. The doctoral student is an Orr Fellow and software engineer at The MJ Companies, with experience at Johnson & Johnson, PPG, Fastenal Company, American Chemical Society and Eli Lilly and Company. He’s been a peer mentor, research assistant, teaching assistant and computer science ambassador at Purdue and a part of the Purdue Innovates Firestarter cohort. Born and raised in Indianapolis, he believes the city was the perfect place to earn his bachelor’s degree in applied computer science at Purdue University in Indianapolis.
Q+A
What led you to computer science?
Growing up, I was always looking for opportunities with the most growth. Always entrepreneurial. Initially, I studied chemical engineering because its applications seemed endless. Later, as an Eli Lilly intern, I worked with two chemical engineers on a software platform that completely captured my attention. They encouraged me to follow that passion for tech, and another mentor helped me decide on computer science. Having mentors is everything.
Q+A
What excites you about your major?
Through mentors and Purdue University in Indianapolis resources, I’ve discovered infinite ways to use computer science to create community. I’ve made dream connections with leaders who want to make the world a better place. We’re at a time where technology is a key that can unlock any door.
Q+A
What does persistence mean to you?
Persist because other people are depending on it. I always think about this poem called “The Bridge Builder” by Will Allen Dromgoole. Building bridges can be hard, but it’s the only way we can all succeed.
Q+A
Why go to school in Indianapolis?
I would not be where I am today without the internships, co-ops and community programs in Indy. Purdue partners with so many organizations full of remarkable people who want to see you succeed. I talked about building bridges, and it’s an outlook many people share here.
Q+A
What do you hope to accomplish in your career?
Throughout my life, I want to give back to others. I’m able to move forward because of the people who have inspired me. I can’t innovate without their help.
Q+A
How has your work experience influenced the way you think about the future?
I’ve worked for big enterprises, but now I’m with a small family-owned company that’s completely different — I’m taking on challenges and growing in ways that would take years in a larger setting. It’s been very valuable to see the way that organizations both big and small work together and create this ecosystem.
Q+A
What advice would you give your younger self?
Get into as many interesting spaces as possible. Go to the event, sign up for the club, reach out about the coffee meetup. When you get involved, you make relationships that change your life.
Q+A
What are you most excited for next?
I’m working on this nonprofit that’s centered on history and STEM education. It was one of the many ideas in my Notes app, and now it’s coming to life with the help of Purdue Innovates. Education is important to me — it’s never about being the smartest person in the room — it’s about learning as much as you can. Chase anything you think is interesting.
