Who’s behind MAE operations? It’s Daniel Preston.
Daniel M. Preston, a Facilities Operations Specialist at the University of Florida’s Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering (MAE), has a long history of supporting both students and faculty. While Preston’s work is often behind the scenes, his impact on student success is evident to those who have interacted with him over the years.
A Gainesville native, Preston began his career at UF in 2004, initially working in various technical roles, from IT support to engineering logistics. In 2019, he joined the MAE department, where he now coordinates facilities operations, manages the department’s vehicle fleet, and supports the MAE Student Design Center, among other responsibilities.
Preston has had the opportunity to watch many students grow. “It’s rewarding to see someone evolve over time,” he explained. “From a new undergrad or grad student to, just a few years later, taking on leadership roles like club president or lab safety manager. It’s clear they’ve grown and learned so much along the way.”
His role allows him to support student teams in a variety of ways, particularly through logistical support for student design teams. This is something that resonates deeply with Preston, given his long-standing interest in engineering. “I’ve always had an interest in engineering,” he said. “When I came to MAE, I knew I wanted to work with the student design teams.”
Working with student teams, Preston enjoys seeing how they evolve and how the skills they gain during their time at UF prepare them for future careers. Over the years, Preston has provided support and guidance to students on those teams. He fondly recalls being present for two standout moments of pride in MAE: Solar Gators winning the Formula Sun Grand Prix and Gator Motor Sports earning third overall at Formula SAE.
Though his job doesn’t always place him in direct contact with students on a daily basis, Preston’s interactions with them provide him a unique perspective on the progression of young engineers at UF. Whether it’s through coordinating repairs, organizing the department’s logistics, or supporting the student design teams, Preston plays an essential role in creating an environment where students can succeed.
As an integral part of the MAE department, Preston’s contributions are recognized by his colleagues and have earned him multiple awards including the 2023/2024 UF MAE Productivity Award, the 2022/2023 Jan Rockey Outstanding Staff Award, and 2021 Division 3 Superior Accomplishment Award.
Preston’s role at UF is multifaceted and crucial to the day-to-day operations of the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering. From supporting student projects to ensuring safety, his dedication and expertise have made a lasting impact on the department and the students it serves. For Preston, it’s not just about maintaining facilities—it’s about creating an environment where future engineers can thrive.
Story by: Vera Lucia Pappaterra Genao
Marketing & Communications Student Assistant
Design by: Christi Swiers
Marketing & Communications Specialist
UF Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering
November 27, 2024
