From Fort Belknap to Taiwan, first-generation student Tyriek Crazy explores world through engineering
Tyriek Crazy had not traveled much prior to starting his journey at Montana Technological University, but as an undergraduate electrical engineering student he’s traveled the world, with no plans to stop after he graduates.
A member of the Aaniiih Nakoda Tribe, Crazy grew up on the Fort Belknap Reservation in north-central Montana.
“I originally got involved in electrical engineering because I had a shop teacher in high school who would always let me work on circuits instead of, like, doing welding and carpentry during class,” Crazy said.
Crazy’s high school also took him on a trip to Montana Tech, which sparked a connection with the University.
“I knew I wanted to come back,” he said.
He earned an associate degree in environmental science at Aaniiih Nakoda Community College and finished his general education requirements before transferring to Montana Tech.
Crazy’s aunt had told him about the TRIO Student Support Services STEM program. TRIO is a federally funded program designed to serve first-generation, income eligible, and students with disabilities. The program provides opportunities in academic development, financial literacy, career awareness, and other college requirements. TRIO Student Support Services STEM serves to motivate students towards the successful completion of their post-secondary education.
Crazy utilized TRIO’s offices as a study place and asked them for help with questions about financial aid. At Montana Tech, he has thrived.
Crazy traveled with fellow students on a spring break trip to explore the outdoors in Arizona. He was part of the American Indian Science and Engineering Society (AISES) group that traveled to Kenosha, Wisconsin in 2024 to compete in the First Nations Launch High-Power Rocket Competition. That same year he paddled Montana Tech’s concrete canoe entry in the American Society of Civil Engineers Chapter (ASCE) Student Symposium in Vancouver, Canada. In summer 2025, Crazy traveled with fellow Montana Tech students to Minghsin University of Science and Technology in Taiwan, gaining exposure to culture, language, and cutting-edge technology, including chip manufacturing facilities.
“Being in Taiwan was amazing — the culture, the people, everything was so different but welcoming,” Crazy said. “Before college, I never really left home much. Now I’ve been to Vancouver, Taiwan, Wisconsin, and Arizona. Montana Tech opened the door to all of that. Traveling showed me that there’s so much more out there. It really changed how I see the world.”
Crazy also has served as a student ambassador for Montana Tech as an orientation leader and Prospector. In these positions he’s engaged students and helped them transition to college at orientation, and given tours to groups of prospective students. Both positions also allowed Crazy to grow.
“Becoming a Prospector and orientation leader helped me come out of my shell,” Crazy said. “I had to get comfortable talking to people. When I first got here, I was super quiet. I didn’t talk to anyone. Now I’m leading tours and talking to high school students about why Montana Tech is worth it.”
Crazy’s grandfather calls him often to offer encouragement. He has younger siblings, including a sister who is interested in college right now. He wants to set an example for them.
“If I can do it, they can too,” Crazy said.
He’s not sure where he’ll land after graduation, but electrical engineers can work anywhere and Crazy would like to see more of the world and continue to learn and grow.
“I want to work somewhere that challenges me,” he said.