EUGENE, Ore. – Bushnell University senior Liam Kerr, a double major in Mathematics and Computer Science: Software Engineering, is currently completing a high-tech internship with Visual Robotics, a local company specializing in artificial intelligence and robotic systems. Motivated by a growing interest in AI and robotics, Kerr found Visual Robotics to be the perfect environment to bridge classroom theory with real-world innovation as part of his spring internship.
From developing object-detecting robots to learning how startups operate behind the scenes, Kerr’s internship has offered him the opportunity to gain practical skills, contribute to cutting-edge projects, and solidify his future goals.
We sat down with Kerr to learn more about his experience and how it is shaping his path forward. You can watch the full interview on Bushnell University’s YouTube channel or via the embedded video below.
Engineering the Future: Gaining Experience Beyond the Classroom
For Kerr, the appeal of Visual Robotics was the chance to work at the intersection of artificial intelligence and hands-on robotics—something not easily replicated in a traditional classroom.
“A few of the experiences I gained here at Visual Robotics that I couldn’t learn in a traditional classroom include real-world software development, artificial intelligence, and even business.” Kerr explained that “getting to learn about the operations of startup businesses and how they operate, as well as learning the technical sides of things and how they all go together” has been invaluable.
Among the highlights of his internship was his work on Vim 303, a robot powered by deep learning technology and a real-time object detection system known as YOLO. With a camera-guided vision system, the robot can now distinguish between brands of snack chips — just one example of the advanced capabilities Kerr and his team helped bring to life.
This hands-on experience with AI-powered robotics not only sharpened Kerr’s technical expertise but also gave him clarity about his professional future.
“I would say this internship experience has driven me to pursue what we’ve been doing right now,” he shared. “I found it awesome, very rewarding. I want to continue this and explore other paths of AI and robotics.”
From navigating the fast-paced world of startups to implementing advanced machine learning models, Kerr’s journey at Visual Robotics affirmed that he’s right where he belongs: in the heart of tech innovation.
Maximizing the Internship Experience
Kerr encourages fellow students to dive deep into their internships with curiosity, intentionality, and a strong sense of purpose.
“Be a sponge and learn all you can,” he advised. “Ask lots of questions. Just make really good use of your time.”
He believes that the more effort students put into their internships, the more they will grow, both professionally and personally. These internships don’t just sharpen technical skills — they also help students learn to serve others and cultivate aspirations that drive future success.
Kerr also praised Bushnell University’s structured approach to internships, highlighting the career development resources and one-on-one support provided throughout the process.
“I really like Bushnell’s internship program because of all the support that is given to the students,” he said. “In your internship class itself, you get plenty of support from our career adviser, Whitney Shoun. It’s helped me gain real-world experience in AI that I can take with me moving forward.”
With his passion fueled and skillset sharpened, Kerr is ready to step into a future shaped by the innovation he helped bring to life.
To learn more about Bushnell University’s internship program, visit bushnell.edu/career-development. To learn more about Visual Robotics, visit: www.visualrobotics.com.
A Future in AI: Bushnell’s Computer Science Program
Students interested in coding, software development, or emerging tech fields like AI and robotics can start their journey through Bushnell’s Bachelor of Science in Computer Science. Beginning Fall 2025, the program will introduce an Applied AI concentration, developed in partnership with Rize Education and informed by industry leaders such as Google, Meta, and Amazon. This new addition equips students with cutting-edge skills in artificial intelligence while maintaining the personal, hands-on learning environment Bushnell is known for. Learn more at www.bushnell.edu/computer-science.
For students interested in mathematics, Bushnell offers a Mathematics major that emphasizes critical thinking and problem-solving skills within a Christian framework. The program provides students the opportunity to explore various topics, including finance, actuarial math, and the intersection of mathematics with the fine arts, all while developing strong mathematical knowledge and reasoning skills. Learn more about the mathematics major at www.bushnell.edu/mathematics.