For Devlin Hytche Simms, INROADS provided the foundation for a career that bridges finance, technology, and leadership — and a future focused on education.

While attending the University of Maryland Eastern Shore (Class of 2004), Devlin completed his INROADS internship with Amerada Hess as a Natural Gas Accounting Intern. That opportunity gave him both exposure to the accounting field and his first experience navigating the dynamics of a professional office. “It showed me how to really work in an office and navigate the challenges that come with it. It was a great opportunity to learn more about accounting and the different types of accounting jobs that are available in that field,” he recalls.

After graduation, Devlin built on those lessons across both public and private sectors, growing his expertise in operations, financial systems, and technology management. Over the years, he advanced into leadership roles — including nearly a decade with the State of Tennessee as an IT Manager and later as Technology Manager at American Electric Power. In those positions, he led cross-functional teams, oversaw large-scale ERP implementations, and ensured technology strategies aligned with business goals.

Today, Devlin serves as a Senior Financial Analyst at Waco Family Medicine, where he combines his background in finance and technology to support forecasting, budgeting, and long-term planning. He also manages financial systems, including serving as NetSuite Administrator, helping the organization strengthen operations in service of community healthcare.

Looking ahead, Devlin aspires to become a college professor — a goal that reflects his passion for education and his commitment to mentoring the next generation of professionals.

He also shares thoughtful advice for current INROADS students:

• Embrace every opportunity.
• Treat each task as a chance to learn.
• Use challenges as stepping stones for growth.

Devlin’s journey illustrates how INROADS experiences can spark careers that evolve across industries and disciplines — while also fostering aspirations to give back through teaching and mentorship.