For Grace Tran, the sky is no limit.
A mechanical engineering student in the combined master’s program, Grace’s career interests are in advanced robotic systems where human interaction, health, and impact are central. She is a long-time member of Gator Motorsports, where she began as a brake system engineer and worked her way up to the Business Lead. She also launched the first student startup incubator for the Engineering Innovation Institute, a testament to her penchant for entrepreneurship and applied engineering. In her free time, Grace enjoys traveling, crocheting, and junk journaling. Most of all, she enjoys running – a hobby she approaches as an engineer.
“Like engineering, running contains logistics and design work. It’s practicing speed work, designing a training plan, and practicing discipline,”
Her mother is an inspiration and rock for Grace, being an accomplished runner with an Ironman triathlon, 50k race, and 10 marathons under her belt. She encouraged Grace to sign up for the Marine Corps Marathon as her debut.
On the day, Grace remembers how nervous she was. It’s five in the morning, freezing cold, and the minutes are counting down until the race begins. Once it was go-time, she felt something click; the nerves drained away to gratitude and excitement. In the crowd, she saw a familiar face cheering her on – TriGators coach Joy – and fellow Gators in the race.
Having completed her first marathon just this past October, Grace is already preparing for more. She is currently studying abroad at Denmark Technical University. Amid new spaces, experiences and full course load, Grace is gearing up for her next conquest: the Copenhagen marathon.
“Running is an addicting sport,” she expressed. “Once I start putting one foot in front of the other, I get into my element.”
Grace is most excited for the Chicago Marathon, her first world major race. Aside from being one of the most prominent events for athletes worldwide, it is also one of the largest charity races in the country. This year’s cause is special to Grace; the Chicago Marathon will be raising awareness and funds for melanoma research. What started as her Girl Scout Gold Award has morphed into a lifelong passion. Since 2021, Grace has been educating her local community on the risks of skin cancer and preventive measures. She is especially proud of her advocacy with the National Skin Cancer Foundation. Her little sister, also a UF Gator, will be running the race with her.
“It’s the opportunity of a lifetime. I get to run the Chicago Marathon side by side with my sister AND I get to support skin cancer research. That is electric.”
What was once Grace’s next goal has now become another accomplishment. While studying abroad in Denmark, she completed the Copenhagen Marathon, marking her second marathon finish. Juggling training with classes and life in a new country, Grace approached the challenge with the same preparation and discipline that she applies to engineering projects.
Some days running feels impossible. Grace reminds herself no matter the run, whether around the neighborhood or a race, it is always a gift. She approaches life and engineering with the same mindset. Those three simple words – I get to – reframe the situation and put her back on track.