Each week, the College of Engineering highlights an outstanding member of our engineering community. This week, we are introducing Lara Nichols-Brown, a lecturer of computer science and software engineering.

What brought you to Cal Poly College of Engineering?  

After spending many years in industry, I wanted to help prepare the next generation of engineers through hands-on, real-world learning. Cal Poly’s Learn by Doing philosophy and reputation for engineering excellence made it an ideal place to continue that mission.

Tell me about your research interests and why you are passionate about this topic.     

My research focuses on software engineering processes and database systems, particularly how we can build software that is more reliable, maintainable and effective. After many years in industry as a software engineer, I saw firsthand how development teams often struggle with inefficient processes, technical debt and maintaining complex systems. Those experiences inspired my interest in exploring how generative AI and intelligent agents can improve the software engineering process by helping developers design, test and maintain software more efficiently, ultimately leading to higher-quality software and better outcomes for the people who rely on it.   

What do you want others to know about your research?   

In industry, I learned firsthand that engineers do their best work when they can focus on innovation rather than repetitive development tasks. I believe generative AI is fundamentally changing software engineering, and I'm excited to explore how we can make these tools better at understanding complex software systems so they become trusted collaborators that help engineers build higher-quality software more efficiently.    

What are some of the upcoming projects or publications you’re working on?    

As a new faculty member, I’m eager to partner with students and fellow faculty to launch new research projects in software engineering and AI. One of the things that drew me to Cal Poly is its collaborative, Learn by Doing culture, and I’m excited to build research opportunities where students can contribute to solving practical software engineering problems.   

What is your favorite part of working in engineering education?    

My favorite part of working in engineering education is helping students discover their potential and watching their confidence grow as they tackle complex engineering challenges. Cal Poly's Learn by Doing philosophy makes that especially rewarding because students gain practical experience while I have the opportunity to give back by sharing the lessons I've learned throughout my career.   

What is your favorite place in San Luis Obispo County and why?    

My favorite part of San Luis Obispo County is the beautiful outdoor spaces, from the trails to the coastline. Spending time in nature helps me recharge, and it’s one of the reasons I’m so excited to call this community home.   

How do you like to spend your free time?    

Outside of work, I enjoy cooking, biking, traveling and spending time outdoors with my family. One of our favorite traditions is taking road trips each summer to explore U.S. national parks. We’ve already visited about half of them, and we’re looking forward to seeing the rest over the next few years.   

What are you most looking forward to in the upcoming academic year?    

After my years in software engineering, I’m especially excited to give back by helping students build both the technical skills and the confidence they’ll carry throughout their careers. I’m also looking forward to being part of Cal Poly’s transition to the semester system and embracing this new chapter alongside my students and colleagues.   

What is the most helpful advice you’ve received?     

The best advice I’ve received is that growth happens outside your comfort zone. It's OK not to get everything right the first time. Real learning comes from embracing challenges, learning from mistakes and continuing to improve, and that’s a mindset I embrace and hope to inspire in my students.     

How does engineering apply to your daily life?     

Engineering is less of a job and more of a way of thinking. I tend to approach everyday problems by breaking them into smaller pieces and looking for better solutions, whether I’m cooking dinner, planning our next national park adventure or convincing myself that one more spreadsheet will make the family vacation even better.    

How do you encourage engineering students to make an impact on the community?     

I encourage students to take chances and not wait for the "perfect" opportunity. Every experience is a chance to learn, grow and find new ways to use your skills to make a positive impact on the people and communities around you.