For students exploring future careers in science and technology, a week at the University of Houston-Clear Lake offered more than hands-on research. It provided a glimpse of what their future could become.

As a key partner in the 2026 JASON Learning Argonaut Liftoff Expedition: From Data to Design to Impact, UHCL welcomed Teacher and Student Argonauts from across the country for a week of scientific discovery, research collaboration, and mentorship. Throughout the experience, UHCL faculty, Doctoral Curriculum and Instruction (EDCI) students, UHCLTeach students, and Argonaut Alumnus Eloy Sanchez worked side by side with participants, helping them transform field-collected environmental data into meaningful research and professional-quality presentations, while exposing them to college life and STEM career pathways.

For Dr. Carol Waters, professor in the College of Education and a former JASON Teacher Argonaut herself, the partnership represents an opportunity to give students the same kind of transformational experience that once shaped her own career.

"The conversation created a valuable exchange between emerging researchers and K–12 educators and students," Waters said. "The doctoral students were able to learn directly from the Argonauts' experiences while also helping them think critically about their data and research questions."

Learning through mentorship

During the expedition, Argonauts collected environmental data using databots at the Houston Advanced Research Center in The Woodlands and Armand Bayou Nature Center near UHCL’s Bay Area campus before bringing their findings to UHCL. Then, doctoral students in Waters' Learning in Cognition in STEM Education course and Sanchez met with the participants to discuss their research, ask questions, and help them refine their thinking.

The learning continued the following day as UHCLTeach Master Teacher Dr. Lorie Batrez and Fredy Rubio, UHCLTeach student organization president, led a workshop on creating effective scientific research posters and communicating scientific findings to diverse audiences. The workshop emphasized poster design, visual communication, and audience engagement. Afterward, Batrez, Rubio, EDCI doctoral student Leander Taylor, and Waters met individually with each Argonaut to offer personalized feedback on research questions, poster design, data visualization, and presentation skills. The mentoring sessions encouraged participants to think like scientists while learning to communicate their discoveries effectively.

For McKenzie Brooks, an upcoming freshman from central Ohio, those mentoring sessions made an immediate impact.

"One of the mentors gave us a presentation on how to make a great poster," Brooks said. "Everything she taught us is reflected in my poster."

Inspiring future scientists

Brooks said the expedition itself has already become one of the defining experiences of her young academic journey.

"When I was in sixth or seventh grade, I learned about the expedition and thought it sounded awesome," she said. "But I wasn't old enough to participate."

A year later, another opportunity appeared.

"The next year, I saw there wasn't an age requirement, and I knew I wanted to do it," Brooks said. "I had no idea what to expect, and I thought it might be boring, but it ended up being one of the greatest decisions I've ever made."

Now considering a future in astronomy or space-related fields, Brooks said visiting Houston and interacting with researchers, educators, and UHCL students expanded her perspective.

"It was great," she said after touring NASA's Neutral Buoyancy Laboratory (NBL). "I learned about the spacesuits astronauts use and the Artemis and Apollo programs. It was awesome."

A partnership that opens doors

While the expedition introduces students to authentic scientific research, it also intentionally helps them envision themselves in higher education.

Jude Kesl, JASON Learning expedition leader, said UHCL has become an invaluable partner because of the university's willingness to invest time and expertise in each participant.

"One of the things Dr. Waters does is bring her students in as mentors," Kesl said. "When we came to UHCL, her doctoral students sat down one-on-one with the teachers and students to talk through their poster presentations, offering support and coaching throughout the process."

That interaction, she said, creates an experience that extends well beyond the science.

"Parents also love that their students have the opportunity to spend time on a college campus," Kesl added.

The collaboration also connects students to professionals who have followed similar educational pathways. Those examples reinforce what students heard throughout the week — that careers in aerospace, engineering, and environmental science are built through education, internships, and hands-on experience.

"It's about showing students the kinds of careers that are possible," Kesl said. "You don't have to be a scientist to work in the space industry. There are so many ways to be part of it."

For some students, those experiences provide clarity about their future.

Kesl recalled one participant who visited aerospace manufacturer Arrow Science and Technology during the expedition.

"At Arrow Science and Technology, I overheard a student say, 'I wasn't sure what I wanted to do, but after this, I'm going to go into aerospace engineering,'" Kesl said. "It was one of those moments where you could see the experience had really made an impact."

Preparing the next generation of STEM leaders

The week concluded with the JASON Argonaut Poster Presentation Showcase hosted at UHCL, where students presented their research to university leadership, faculty members, and representatives from organizations including Science Applications International Corporation (SAIC), Space Center Houston, Texas A&M University, the University of Houston, and JASON Learning alumni.

For Waters, the showcase represents the culmination of something much larger than a research project.

"This experience exemplifies the power of experiential learning," Waters said. "By working alongside researchers, educators, university students, and industry professionals, Argonauts gain not only technical skills but also the confidence to communicate their ideas and pursue STEM pathways."

Now in its third year, the partnership between UHCL and JASON Learning continues to demonstrate how meaningful mentorship, authentic research experiences, and collaboration with educators and industry professionals can help students discover new possibilities long before they begin college. By opening its classrooms, connecting students with faculty and graduate mentors, and creating opportunities to engage with real scientific challenges, UHCL is helping the next generation envision and prepare for a future in STEM.

Hosted by the Capt. Wendell M. Wilson Veteran & Military Resource Center on May 6, the celebration highlighted student achievement awards, graduate recognition, certificates of appreciation, and the presentation of the evening’s highest honor: Military-Connected Student of the Year. This year’s recipient, Ronald Ndawula, represents the very balance of service, leadership, and academic excellence the award was designed to recognize.

A journey fueled by discipline and determination

Originally from Uganda and now based in Houston, Ndawula serves in the U.S. Army Reserve while pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (IT) with a Minor in Cybersecurity at UHCL. In addition to his military service and coursework, he also works at Harris County as an Information Security Analyst-IAM contractor.

Ndawula said his path to UHCL was shaped by a desire to grow professionally while continuing to serve.

“I chose UHCL because of its strong IT program, smaller class sizes, and supportive environment for military-connected students,” he said. “It offered the balance I needed between academics, work, and service.”

Although Ndawula’s journey has been rewarding, that balance has not always been easy.

“Balancing military duties, school, and work has been challenging,” he said. “But I’ve learned time management, discipline, and resilience. Balancing my responsibilities pushes me to stay organized and focused.”

Passion for cybersecurity

Ndawula said his interest in technology began with curiosity about how systems operate and evolved through hands-on exposure to cybersecurity concepts.

“I’ve always been interested in how systems work and how to secure them,” he said. “My interest grew through hands-on experiences and exposure to cybersecurity concepts, which motivated me to pursue IT professionally.”

During his time at UHCL, he has strengthened technical and professional skills in cybersecurity, scripting, web development, and communication through coursework, labs, and faculty mentorship.

“Courses in scripting, forensics, and cybersecurity, along with hands-on labs and projects, were especially valuable,” Ndawula said. “Professors like Joshua Baker, Dr. Lisa Lacher, Dr. Arturo Perez, and Krishani Abeysekera, who emphasized real-world application, helped me connect theory to practice.”

His academic success recently earned him not only the Military-Connected Student of the Year award, but also the 2026 Outstanding Undergraduate Student Award in Information Technology.

“I transferred to UHCL with an Associate of Arts in Multidisciplinary Studies from Houston City College, and my mentor warned me that switching to a Bachelor of Science in IT would be challenging,” Ndawula said. “But I’ve always loved a challenge. Winning this award validates my dedication to my studies and my passion for IT, and it motivates me to keep improving and striving for excellence in my field.”

Finding community at UHCL

Ndawula credited UHCL’s military-connected community with helping him navigate the demands of military service, academics, and professional life.

“The community has provided mentorship, helpful resources, and a sense of belonging,” he said. “Being around others with similar experiences made it easier to navigate challenges and stay motivated.”

For Ndawula, receiving the Military-Connected Student of the Year award represented recognition for the sacrifices and discipline required to maintain excellence across multiple responsibilities.

“It means a lot to be recognized for balancing my military service and academics,” he said. “It reflects the hard work and sacrifices behind the scenes.”

He also shared the qualities he believes define effective leadership. “A good leader is disciplined, adaptable, accountable, and willing to serve others,” Ndawula said. “Strong communication and leading by example are also key.”

Celebrating resilience and achievement

Luis Polanco De Leon, director of the Veteran & Military Resource Center, said the annual celebration reflects the center's mission to support and uplift military-connected students.

“Watching our students be celebrated for their resilience, dedication, and achievements is exactly why we do this work,” Polanco De Leon said. “My goal as director has always been to show up for our students and build something meaningful, and events like this are proof that we’re doing just that.”

As the evening celebrated academic milestones and military service alike, Ndawula said his motivation continues to come from both faith and mentorship.

“I’m inspired by my faith in God, mentors in both the military and IT field who demonstrate leadership, professionalism, and continuous growth,” he said.

Looking ahead, he hopes to continue building a career in cybersecurity, particularly in incident response or cloud security, while eventually stepping into leadership roles.

For students working toward their own goals, Ndawula offered one final message:

“Stay consistent, take advantage of opportunities, and don’t be afraid to ask for help,” he said. “Growth comes from persistence.”

For more information about resources and support for military-connected students, visit www.uhcl.edu/vmrc/. Interested in pursuing a career in technology or cybersecurity? Visit www.uhcl.edu/academics/degrees/information-technology-bs to explore UHCL’s Information Technology program and hands-on learning opportunities.

Students from the University of Houston-Clear Lake College of Education (COE) partnered with Pasadena Independent School District (ISD) and Holly Yoes Glass, Pasadena ISD K–4 science specialist, to bring science to life during the district’s annual STEAM Fair, creating hands-on learning experiences for elementary students across the community.

Inside the district’s CTE Mobile Learning Lab, young learners explored interactive science activities designed to spark curiosity and connect classroom concepts to real-world applications. From engineering mini robots to explosive “Elephant Toothpaste” experiments, the event encouraged students to see science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics as exciting pathways for discovery and innovation.

For UHCL’s students, the event represented more than community outreach. It was an opportunity to put educational leadership into practice while inspiring the next generation of learners.

“Getting to work with the kids at the STEAM Fair was such a fun experience,” said UHCL science methods student Sara Bobo. “Assisting with the Elephant Toothpaste station and seeing their curiosity and excitement during the experiment was so rewarding. Moments like that remind me how important it is for students to experience learning, not just hear about it, and why I chose to become an educator.”

Meghan Pavone, a Doctoral Curriculum and Instruction (EDCI) student, reflected on the impact of experiential learning throughout the event. “My experience at the Pasadena STEAM Fair was extraordinary,” she said. “Students rotated through STEAM experiences, discovering new ways of thinking and problems to solve.”

District leaders also praised the partnership between UHCL and Pasadena ISD. Yoes Glass noted that UHCL students “did an excellent job engaging and educating the young scientists and engineers” and emphasized the district’s appreciation for the continued collaboration with the UHCL COE.

The STEAM Fair, held in March, highlighted the shared commitment between UHCL and Pasadena ISD to community engagement, innovative teaching, and creating meaningful educational experiences that inspire children long after the event ends.

Dr. Carol Waters, UHCL’s assistant professor of STEM Education and STEM conference coordinator, said that volunteering at the Pasadena ISD Elementary STEAM Fair reminds her why partnerships between universities and school districts matter so deeply.

“Watching our science methods students and EDCI doctoral students engage with children and create meaningful learning experiences shows the true impact of educator preparation beyond the classroom.”

Furthermore, these experiences not only inspire young learners to see themselves in STEM fields but also strengthen UHCL’s future educators’ commitment to service, innovation, and community engagement.

“We are proud of our continued partnership with Pasadena ISD and look forward to expanding opportunities that keep curiosity, creativity, and the love of learning alive for students across our region,” said Waters.

Learn more about how UHCL’s COE is preparing future educators to lead, serve, and inspire through hands-on community engagement at www.uhcl.edu/education/.

The 10th Annual Greater Houston Area STEM Conference, held March 28 at the University of Houston–Clear Lake, brought together educators and STEM leaders for a full day of learning, collaboration, and innovation. The milestone event celebrated a decade of growth for one of the region’s most established STEM education conferences, featuring nearly 80 sessions, 41 exhibitors, and welcoming K–16 educators, university faculty, students, alumni, and industry partners from across Greater Houston and beyond, including presenters and exhibitors traveling from Idaho, Milwaukee, and the Philippines.

“The Greater Houston Area STEM Conference represents more than professional learning. It is a decade-long commitment to collaboration, innovation, and the building of a stronger STEM community,” said Dr. Carol Waters, UHCL associate professor of STEM education and conference organizer. “Over the years, it has become a cornerstone for STEM education in our region, bringing together educators, students, and community partners to share ideas, inspire growth, and strengthen our collective impact.”

Dr. Brenda Weiser, professor emeritus at UHCL, delivered the welcome address. Dr. Weiser helped found the conference alongside Dr. Michelle Peters 10 years ago, and her return to open this milestone celebration honored the vision, leadership, and community partnerships that launched the conference, making it a meaningful full-circle moment for attendees.

Across five breakout sessions, topics included artificial intelligence in STEM teaching and learning, science phenomena, inquiry and sensemaking, engineering design and maker-centered learning, technology integration, cross-curricular and interdisciplinary STEM, culturally responsive teaching, support for emergent bilingual and multilingual learners, and STEM teacher leadership. Attendees moved between presentations and interactive spaces, often carrying ideas from one to another.

The Exhibit Hall served as a central hub throughout the day, connecting participants with more than 40 organizations, including robotics teams, environmental groups, and education-focused companies, while also hosting networking, resource sharing, and conference activities such as door prizes.

UHCL students and alumni were a visible presence across the event. Undergraduate students from the UHCLTeach program presented posters and participated in sessions, while doctoral students in Curriculum and Instruction led research-based presentations focused on classroom practice, equity, and professional learning. Students from programs including the Master of Arts in Teaching participated, and UHCL alumni returned as presenters and exhibitors, reflecting ongoing partnerships with local schools and organizations.

The conference also featured contributions from University of Houston System initiatives, including ALL RISE and RESET. ALL RISE supports middle school science teachers through mentorship and professional learning that integrates language-rich, inquiry-based STEM instruction, while RESET advances research-driven STEM teaching through translanguaging and community-engaged learning experiences.

Organizers credited the event’s continued growth to strong support from donors, the community, and industry. Sponsorship from the UHCL Alumni Association, Impulse Technology Services, Gulf Coast Educators Federal Credit Union, RPA Science, EduSmart, and the Harris County Soil and Water Conservation District helped keep the conference accessible while enhancing programming, hands-on learning, and engagement.

As the conference concluded, participants gathered certificates and reflected on the day’s sessions and activities. For many, the day stood out as a practical example of moving beyond discussion to give educators firsthand experience with engaging, applied learning they aim to create in their own classrooms and districts.

After a decade, the STEM conference continues to evolve, with a consistent focus on building connections, sharing ideas, and preparing the next generation of STEM educators and learners across the region.

“Celebrating 10 years of the STEM Conference is a reflection on how far we’ve come and a glimpse into what’s possible,” Waters said. “The energy, ideas, and collaboration we witnessed at this year’s conference reinforce UHCL’s role as a catalyst for innovative STEM education. Looking ahead, we are excited to continue growing this work of preparing future educators, elevating student voices, and strengthening partnerships that will shape the future of STEM across our region.”

Mark your calendar for next year’s conference on Saturday, March 27, 2027, and be part of the next decade of STEM innovation. Contact Waters at WatersC@UHCL.edu to learn how educators, students, and community partners can get involved, share ideas, and help shape the future of STEM education in the Greater Houston area.

Hosted by the University of Houston–Clear Lake’s Center for Educational Programs, the 10th Annual Greater Houston Area STEM Conference is set to return Saturday, March 28, 2026, bringing together educators, students, and industry leaders for a full day of innovation and collaboration.

Held from 8:30 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. in the Bayou Building, the milestone conference marks a decade of connecting STEM professionals across Texas and the Gulf Coast under this year’s theme: “Innovate. Integrate. Inspire.”

Participants will experience hands-on workshops, interactive seminars, and dynamic panel discussions designed for PK–16 audiences, including in-service teachers, school administrators, teacher educators, pre-service teachers, informal educators, and STEM industry education liaisons. Sessions are aligned with state and national STEM standards and focus on practical strategies that spark curiosity, strengthen critical thinking, and connect classroom learning to real-world careers.

Attendees will also receive digital handouts, opportunities for door prizes, and up to seven hours of CPE/SBEC credit for full-day participation. Lunch is included with registration.

Early bird registration is open through Feb. 28. General admission is $40, with a discounted $35 rate for students. The reduced rate is applied during checkout. A vegetarian lunch option is available through a separate online form.

Dr. Carol Waters, UHCL associate professor of STEM education and conference organizer, said the event continues to grow as a regional hub for collaboration and forward-thinking practice.

“Whether you're preparing future scientists and engineers, leading innovative programs, or supporting STEM in the community, we’d love to have you in our network,” she said.

Those interested in attending can register online at https://apps.uhcl.edu/ECommerce/Schedule/Details/44d51c77-e197-f011-81aa-0050561ddc0a. For additional information regarding registration, contact the Center for Educational Programs at 281-283-3530 or via email at CEP@uhcl.edu.

For many students, college is about discovering what’s possible. For Sophia Goings, a third-year Mechanical Engineering student at the University of Houston–Clear Lake, it has been about taking that discovery to the edge of space and beyond.

“I chose to attend UHCL because of its budding engineering programs and its location near Houston’s space industry,” she said. That decision has since opened doors she once only imagined, placing her in the heart of NASA’s training environment and on a trajectory toward supporting humanity’s return to the Moon.

Goings’ passion for engineering stems from her love of hardware design and its versatility across industries. “I chose to pursue Mechanical Engineering to pursue my passion for hardware design and gain skills applicable across various industries,” she said. At UHCL, that passion found room to grow in the classroom and through applied learning opportunities.

One of the defining aspects of Goings’ UHCL experience has been her leadership role with Space Hawks Rocketry, which she calls her favorite part of the university. Through hands-on involvement and student leadership, Sophia sharpened her technical skills and developed the confidence to aim higher.

That confidence paid off when she was introduced to UHCL’s Office of Strategic Partnerships. “I was originally referred to Strategic Partnerships by a friend who previously interned through them,” she shared. “Strategic Partnerships has been very supportive and helpful through interview processes, onboarding, and even managing my school workload.”

Through that support, Goings secured an internship at NASA’s Neutral Buoyancy Lab (NBL), the very facility where astronauts train for spacewalks. For a UHCL student, the experience was nothing short of transformative.

“I am absolutely honored to work at the NBL alongside all the people who make spacewalking possible,” she said. During her time there, she supported the development of life support systems that keep astronauts alive while training underwater for lunar extravehicular activities (EVAs), helped maintain the space station’s robotic arm mockup, and even learned to scuba dive to support hardware testing in the pool.

Her coursework at UHCL proved essential in preparing her for the highly technical and demanding environment. “My coursework at UHCL prepared me technically for activities like scuba diving and working on life support systems through learning about pressurization, thermodynamics, engineering mechanics, data analytics, and lab safety,” Goings said.

Experiences like Goings’ highlight UHCL’s commitment to experiential learning and cross-disciplinary opportunities. “UHCL stands out with its commitment to providing students opportunities across various disciplines,” she added. “Partnerships as prestigious as those through NASA contractors prove that UHCL is devoted to ensuring its students have unmatched aerospace experiences and are developing perfect candidates for future leaders in the rapidly expanding world of spaceflight.”

Looking ahead, Goings’ ambitions remain boldly aimed skyward. After graduation, she plans to support NASA’s mission in establishing lunar permanence for humanity. In the spring of 2026, she will continue working with the NBL Critical Systems group and is already preparing for new and innovative lunar spacesuit testing.

Perhaps the most important lesson Goings has learned at UHCL goes beyond equations and lab work. “The most important thing I’ve learned at UHCL is how to make connections and pursue challenging opportunities," she said.

Her advice to fellow students reflects that mindset: “Just take the risk. Even if you think you don’t have the qualifications to contribute to missions as impactful as the moon landing, there is no downside in taking the risk of putting yourself out there and applying to do great things. You won’t know what opportunities lie ahead of you unless you take that first initial leap of faith.”

Sophia Goings’ story is ultimately about taking the leap. With UHCL providing the foundation, support, and opportunity, that leap carried her from campus to one of NASA’s most critical training environments, proving that extraordinary outcomes often begin with a single bold decision.

For more information about UHCL’s Mechanical Engineering program, visit www.uhcl.edu/science-engineering/departments/engineering/mechanical-engineering/. For more information about internships and opportunities, visit www.uhcl.edu/strategic-partnerships/.  

The University of Houston-Clear Lake (UHCL) has long been dedicated to transforming lives through research, education, and community engagement. Now, a landmark partnership with PAM Health is expanding that mission in a new way through the newly named PAM Health Neurorehabilitation and Motor Performance Lab at UHCL's Health and Human Performance Institute (HHPI).

The facility was officially unveiled during a ribbon-cutting ceremony held on September 23, 2025, marking a milestone moment in healthcare and academic collaboration.

“Tonight is about more than a new facility or the naming of the facility,” said UHCL President Dr. Richard Walker. “It’s about the power of partnership.”

This partnership represents more than a name on a wall. It is a visionary alignment between a leading rehabilitation healthcare provider and a university committed to innovation and social impact. The collaboration will support a multi-year, interdisciplinary research initiative focused on improving the lives of individuals with neurological conditions such as Parkinson's disease, traumatic brain injury (TBI), and stroke.

Dr. William Amonette, professor in the Department of Health, Human, and Biomedical Sciences and executive director of HHPI, will lead the research as principal investigator. He brings years of experience exploring exercise and nutrition's impact on people with chronic diseases and disabilities. The partnership also opens the door to rare, hands-on research experience in a high-need area of healthcare, helping students launch careers in rehabilitation and biomedical science.

"Mr. Misitano sincerely cares about people. That was my very first impression of him," said Dr. Amonette, speaking of PAM Health CEO Anthony Misitano. "He's investing in research because he genuinely cares. He understands the impact of research — one novel discovery could change countless lives."

Dr. Amonette's vision is rooted in understanding the gaps in the current healthcare system.

 "The problem in the healthcare system right now is that whenever you have a TBI, you have about nine to 13 months of insurance coverage. When that ends, they give you a chair and allow you to function, but rehabilitation essentially stops," Dr. Amonette explained. "And you can't just go to the gym, right? It's not easy to navigate 24 Hour Fitness. So, when we built this place, our motto was: 'We want to be the place you go when there's nowhere else you can go.'"

That philosophy helped shape the lab's purpose and its connection to real people, like Sean Carter, a young man living with the lasting effects of a TBI. In March 2005, Sean was involved in a car crash that completely changed his life.

“I had several fractures, and when I emerged from a 39-day coma, I was unable to walk or talk,” Sean said. “So many things were wrong with my body that it might be easier to tell you what worked than what didn’t work. My cognition was intact, but my body would not respond.”

 The road looked uncertain, and at times, Sean said he could not see the bigger picture, but that changed when he found UHCL’s HHPI. Sean and his family drove from College Station twice a week to work with the HHPI team at UHCL, eventually relocating to the area.

Dr. Lewis Clarke of PAM Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Clear Lake North played a critical role in initiating the partnership, connecting Misitano with Dr. Amonette after years of discussing a collaborative research project. "That Misitano is a visionary," Dr. Clarke said.

The lab has advanced tools to analyze everything from cognitive function and memory to EEG brain activity and neuromotor performance. Together, UHCL and PAM Health will launch controlled trials to investigate biomarkers like brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and nerve growth factor (NGF), exploring how tailored interventions influence brain regeneration.

"The PAM Health Neurorehabilitation and Motor Performance Lab is equipped with every conceivable sophisticated motor and cognitive assessment tool imaginable," said Dr. Clarke. "We will be utilizing EEG coherence evaluations to visualize changes in brain connectivity while concurrently analyzing balance, strength, coordination, memory, and cognitive function in a patient population that includes Parkinson's, stroke, TBI, ALS, and dementias."

The collaboration also includes a structured patient pathway. Patients will begin with inpatient rehabilitation at PAM Health facilities, where baseline functional and laboratory data will be collected. After discharge, they will continue outpatient care and therapy at UHCL, allowing for ongoing research and support beyond hospital walls.

For UHCL students, this is more than research — it is an invitation to lead.

"This represents an unparalleled opportunity for these students to both train and contribute to new research in neurorehabilitation," Dr. Clarke said. "This is a rare marriage of academics and clinical medicine. Both resources provide a rich and fertile ground to better understand the rapidly evolving science of neuroregeneration and how that translates into patient outcomes."

Ultimately, Dr. Amonette views this partnership as a catalyst for national impact. The research conducted at the lab will not only serve local patients, but it also has the potential to become a model of care that can be replicated across the country.

"With conditions like Parkinson's disease and TBI, patients are never truly 'cured,'" Dr. Amonette said. "But through research, we can find better ways to improve their quality of life and long-term health."

President Walker echoed this long-term vision: “As I look to the future, I see this lab as a living classroom, a community resource, and a symbol of innovation. Together, we are building something that will have an impact for years to come,” he said.

This is research with purpose, driven by compassion and powered by partnership. UHCL students have a chance to change lives, including their own.

The University of Houston-Clear Lake’s (UHCL) College of Science and Engineering (CSE) launched its 12-week Aerospace Seminar Series on Sept. 4 with an engaging presentation by Dr. Siddarth Kaki, navigation discipline engineer at NASA Johnson Space Center (JSC), on developing navigation technologies for human-rated spacecraft and lunar rovers. The weekly series, presented in partnership with NASA JSC, takes place every Thursday from 4 to 5 p.m. in the STEM Building, Room 1203, and runs through Nov. 20.

The opening session, titled “An Introduction to Guidance, Navigation, and Control,” introduced students to the critical role GN&C systems play in aerospace engineering, from spacecraft launches and robotic systems to autonomous flight technologies. Drawing on real-world NASA missions, the speakers provided practical insights into how these complex systems operate, sparking strong engagement from a full house of aspiring engineers.

UHCL sophomore Melody Hernandez, who is a mechanical engineering major, described the session as “really fun and insightful.”

“We learned about everything from sending rockets to space, robotics, anything that has to do with sensors, motors, and figuring out location. I would definitely recommend the series, especially for students who aren't quite sure what they want to do yet,” Hernandez said.

Dr. Youssef Hamidi, program director of Aerospace Engineering, emphasized that the Aerospace Seminar Series is about more than lectures; it’s about giving UHCL students a front-row seat to the future of aerospace.

“By learning directly from NASA experts, students see how classroom theory transforms into technologies that guide spacecraft, enable exploration, and expand human presence beyond Earth,” Dr. Hamidi said. “It’s an incredible opportunity to inspire the next generation of engineers right here at UHCL.”

The series continues this Thursday, Sept. 11, with a session led by Dr. Greg Holt, navigation technical discipline lead at NASA JSC and system manager for the Orion Multi-Purpose Crew Vehicle. With over 15 years of experience at NASA and a background as a veteran Mission Control navigator, Holt will present “RadioNavigation.”

Attendees will explore the evolution of radionavigation from early celestial techniques to modern GPS, NASA’s Deep Space Network, and emerging lunar relay satellite systems critical to Artemis missions. The talk will delve into key engineering concepts like triangulation, signal processing, and the unique challenges of deep-space communication.

Students from all majors are encouraged to attend and gain valuable insight into aerospace applications from leading NASA professionals.

For more information about the Aerospace Seminar Series, visit www.uhcl.edu/science-engineering/departments/engineering/aerospace-seminar-series/. 

In the spring of 2025, a determined team of engineering students from the University of Houston-Clear Lake (UHCL) embarked on a bold and challenging mission: to design, build, and operate a fully autonomous lunar excavator as part of NASA’s annual Lunabotics Challenge.

Guided by faculty adviser Dr. Luong Nguyen, the team — composed of Fernando Hermosillo Leon, Cruz Reyna, Stephanie Bonilla, Brandon Rodriguez, Jose Reyes, and Javier Rivera — took on one of the most rigorous student robotics competitions in the nation.

 Although it was UHCL’s first-ever entry into Lunabotics, the team demonstrated strong technical capabilities, innovative thinking, and an unwavering commitment to learning. Their efforts earned them a place in Event 2 of the competition, the Lunabotics Qualification Challenge held at the University of Central Florida (UCF), placing them among the top 35 teams selected from over 60 institutions nationwide.

 About the NASA Lunabotics Challenge

Hosted annually by NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, the Lunabotics Challenge is designed to support the Artemis mission by engaging university teams in developing solutions for lunar excavation and construction. Now in its fifteenth year, the competition simulates the harsh and dusty lunar environment, tasking students with designing robotic systems capable of navigating and excavating simulated lunar regolith.

 The challenge is divided into three main events:

• Event 1: Systems Engineering Paper and Project Management Plan

• Event 2: Lunabotics Qualification Challenge (LQC)

• Event 3: On-Site Lunabotics Challenge at Kennedy Space Center

Each phase emphasizes technical performance and rigorous systems engineering practices, safety, risk mitigation, innovation, and collaboration — all vital to real-world NASA missions.

 Laying the Foundation: Event 1 Success

The UHCL team began their journey with Event 1 — the submission of a detailed Systems Engineering Paper, Preliminary Design Review, Project Management Plan, and STEM Engagement activities. The team applied NASA’s systems engineering lifecycle model to their design process, breaking down complex problems into manageable subsystems and coordinating interdisciplinary efforts in software, electronics, mechanical design, and autonomy. 

Their documentation demonstrated thoughtful consideration of mission requirements, clear traceability from needs to specifications, risk analyses, subsystem interface control, and a development timeline. The team also engaged with local schools and the broader Houston-area community to promote STEM education, a core requirement of the Lunabotics program.

 Their thorough and professional submission earned them a spot in Event 2, advancing them to the Lunabotics Qualification Challenge in Orlando — a major milestone for a first-year team.

 Building the Lunar Excavator

The team’s robot was designed to autonomously navigate a simulated lunar terrain, avoid obstacles, excavate regolith (BP-1 simulant), and deposit it into a designated collection zone. The design process included multiple trade studies where options were evaluated using weighted criteria such as mass, power consumption, autonomy level, dust tolerance, simplicity, and cost.

Key features of the robot included:

•  A four-wheel differential drive system for reliable mobility and maneuverability.
• A front-mounted bucket chain excavator engineered to maximize regolith collection efficiency.
• Autonomous navigation enabled by an integrated sensor suite and computer vision algorithms, utilizing LIDAR and stereo cameras.
• A modular electrical architecture designed for seamless subsystem integration, real-time diagnostics, and built-in redundancy.

 Mechanical components were 3D modeled using SolidWorks, and many parts were fabricated in-house or with support from UHCL’s fabrication lab. The software architecture leveraged ROS (Robot Operating System), allowing for flexible integration between navigation, perception, and excavation subsystems.

 Competing at the Lunabotics Qualification Challenge

Held at the UCF in June 2025, the Lunabotics Qualification Challenge brought together top university teams to demonstrate the capabilities of their robots in a simulated lunar arena. While UHCL’s robot encountered some performance limitations during the LQC — such as dust-related interference in sensors and localization drift — the team successfully passed key readiness reviews and safety checks and was able to operate autonomously on the testbed.

 The experience was invaluable. Competing alongside seasoned teams with years of Lunabotics experience, UHCL’s students gained firsthand exposure to high-stakes engineering under pressure. They also had the opportunity to connect with NASA engineers, student peers, and university mentors from across the country.

 Although the team did not advance to Event 3 at the Kennedy Space Center, reaching Event 2 in their inaugural year placed them in the top 60% of all participating universities, a remarkable achievement for a first-time competitor.

Lessons Learned and Looking Ahead

Participation in the 2025 Lunabotics Challenge proved to be an intense learning experience. Team members developed skills in:

• Systems engineering and documentation

• Project management and interdisciplinary coordination

• Rapid prototyping and hardware/software integration

• Autonomy and control in uncertain environments

• Public speaking and outreach

 Perhaps most importantly, the team gained insight into the iterative nature of engineering — embracing setbacks, debugging complex problems, and adapting to real-world constraints.

 “We came into this competition as underdogs,” said team member Fernando Hermosillo Leon, “but we walked away with a deep understanding of what it takes to build something that could one day operate on the Moon.”

 Looking forward, the team hopes to build on this year’s foundation. With lessons learned and an established workflow, future UHCL teams are poised to make even greater strides in subsequent Lunabotics competitions. Discussions are already underway to improve the mechanical design for weight reduction, enhance the autonomy stack with SLAM and UWB localization, and develop a more robust dust mitigation strategy.

 A University Milestone

For UHCL, the success of its 2025 Lunabotics team is more than just a technical achievement; it's a milestone that signals the university’s growing presence in space-related research and education. It reflects UHCL’s commitment to giving students hands-on, mission-critical engineering experiences that mirror the challenges faced by NASA and industry leaders.

 Faculty adviser Dr. Luong Nguyen praised the students’ perseverance and professionalism: “What this team accomplished in less than a year, starting from scratch, is truly impressive. They exemplified the spirit of engineering innovation, collaboration, and curiosity that we strive to cultivate at UHCL.”

Mission Ready

Though the Moon remains 238,855 miles away, the 2025 UHCL Lunabotics team took a giant leap toward it — not with rockets, but with gears, code, vision, and teamwork. Their story stands as a testament to what’s possible when students dare to dream big, work hard, and believe in each other. As the team continues to build momentum, one thing is certain: UHCL has officially entered the Lunabotics arena, and they’re here to stay.

Elsie's journey to UHCL did not begin with a detailed plan or a perfect roadmap — it started with curiosity, courage, and an unexpected act of kindness. Long before she was a commencement speaker, data analyst, and Spirit Squad cheerleader, she was just a student who came to UHCL’s campus to study, drawn by its tranquil beauty and inviting atmosphere. One day in the fall of 2022, she walked into the Transfer Advising office without an appointment. That spontaneous decision, and the grace of Director Kristi Rickman, who took the time to listen, guide, and advocate for her, would change everything.

In just a few months, Elsie was officially a Hawk, scholarship in hand, purpose in heart.

“I was drawn to UHCL’s small size, walkability, and close-knit campus community with small classes, especially since my friends spoke highly of it,” said Elsie. “I truly thrive in more personal environments. I was accepted for the fall 2023 semester, and now, two years later, here we are.”

Elsie is graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, driven by a passion to blend technology with creativity. “There’s hardly an industry today that doesn’t rely on tech,” Elsie said. “I wanted to use computer science in creative spaces — to build bridges between worlds.”

 Her senior project, ‘Scene It Before’ — a collaborative, user-friendly platform for stage designers — brought that vision to life.

“Think ‘Google Docs meets stage design,’” Elsie explained. “That’s the crossover I’ve always envisioned: bridging the gap between two passions by unlocking new possibilities in the arts through tech.”

But like any good story, Elsie’s path was not without its trials. Transferring mid-degree felt like entering a movie already halfway through. Everyone had their friend groups, their routines, and their rhythm. “It was a trial by fire,” Elsie admitted, reflecting on the five upper-level computer science classes she juggled in one semester, while also navigating the constraints of being an international student with no room for academic missteps.

Yet the pressure Elsie felt forged powerful bonds. “The late-night study sessions, shared struggles, and inside jokes — the friends I made became my family.”

Elsie’s sense of belonging only deepened with an internship in UHCL’s Institutional Research office. There, she analyzed data and uncovered a new passion.

 “I had my own office, with my name on the door — that was cool,” Elsie said. “But more than that, I realized my degree had prepared me for so much more than I expected.”

Elsie found a calling in data analytics through structured query language (SQL), Power BI, and impactful campus-wide projects. With the support of her mentors and a hands-on learning environment, she built her skills and the resume to take on the world.

“In the one and a half years in this position, I honed my ability to communicate data-driven insights to non-technical stakeholders — a skill I know will serve me well in any data-centric role,” said Elsie. “I also assisted in campus-wide Power BI trainings and published dashboards on the university website, giving me hands-on experience in delivering data solutions that were technically sound, user-focused, and widely used.”

Elsie also stepped into leadership, serving as the captain of her senior project team. It was one of the most demanding roles she has ever held — physically, emotionally, and mentally.

 “There were moments I thought I’d break,” Elsie said. “But I couldn’t. I had to show up. For the team, for the project, and myself.”

That experience tested her endurance and revealed a side of herself she had not yet met: a thoughtful, resilient, empathetic leader. Now she dreams of pursuing a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in data or business analytics and someday answer to “Dr. Elsie Bura.”

Amidst all the technical milestones and academic grit, some of Elsie’s most transformative moments happened far from a classroom. In her final year, she joined the UHCL Spirit Squad — a childhood dream come true.

“The uniform, the pom-poms, the bow — it was pure joy,” Elsie said.

But more than that, it became a symbol of visibility and representation. At one event, a woman approached her and said, “We don’t often see cheerleaders with afros. Many little Black girls see you and see themselves — so keep going,” Elsie recalled.

That moment left a mark on Elsie’s heart. “It reminded me that how I show up matters — in and out of uniform,” said Elsie.

Looking back, Elsie does not see only a college experience, but a tapestry of moments, mentors, challenges, and triumphs. “I arrived in Houston not knowing a soul,” said Elsie. “Now I’m trying to figure out how to fit 40 people into a restaurant after graduation.”

The people who gave her rides, meals, advice, and unwavering love became her chosen family. She is endlessly thankful for them and for the community that made UHCL more than just a school.

When she received the call inviting her to speak at Spring 2025 Commencement, Elsie thought she was in trouble. “My first thought was, ‘I didn’t do it!’,” said Elsie. But when the real news landed, she was overjoyed. “Nobody wanted this more than I did,” Elsie said. “And no one will give it more than I will.”

 With the eyes of her classmates and family upon her, Elsie will share a story not just of her journey, but of what is possible when a university like UHCL comes together with a student like Elsie Bura.

Elsie’s advice to students is simple: “Breathe. Take it in. You’ve dreamed of this moment for years — don’t let it pass you by,” she said.

 Elsie’s journey is more than a success story; it is a testament to growth, determination, and the power of believing. At UHCL, the unimaginable is not just achievable — it is often inevitable.

For more information about UHCL’s Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, visit www.uhcl.edu/academics/degrees/computer-science-bs. For more information about Spring 2025 Commencement, visit https://www.uhcl.edu/academics/commencement/.

When Eman Alwarsh transferred to the University of Houston-Clear Lake (UHCL), she was not only looking for a school, but something greater. She found a tight-knit academic community where passion meets purpose, and where she could grow from a curious student into a confident scientist, leader, and future educator. As she nears completing her Bachelor of Science in Chemistry with a 4.0 GPA, Eman’s story exemplifies how UHCL prepares students to thrive in academia and beyond.

“I chose UHCL because of its small class sizes and the opportunity to build meaningful relationships with professors and peers,” Eman shared. “The Chemistry Program’s strong encouragement of research really stood out to me.”

UHCL’s community became the foundation for a transformative academic experience. With the guidance of dedicated faculty and a Chemistry Program accredited by the American Chemical Society (ACS), Eman has taken full advantage of every opportunity — from tutoring to lab research and club leadership. For Eman, chemistry is not just a subject, it is the key to unlocking the mysteries of the universe.

“Chemistry has always fascinated me because it is the foundation of so many things in our world,” said Eman. “It challenges me to think critically and solve problems creatively.”

At UHCL, those challenges came to life in the chemistry lab. Through rigorous courses and hands-on research, Eman honed essential skills in scientific writing, public speaking, and experimental design; skills that will carry her through graduate school and into the classroom as a future professor.

One of the most impactful aspects of Eman’s journey has been her mentorship under Dr. Charuksha Walgama, assistant professor of chemistry.

“Dr. Walgama was the first professor to reach out to me,” Eman said. “He provided me with so many opportunities — becoming an embedded tutor, working in his lab, even contributing to a publication.”

Through these experiences, Eman discovered her love for teaching and mentoring, further solidifying her desire to pursue graduate studies and eventually become a professor.

Another pivotal moment came in Dr. Yi Su’s physical chemistry lab — a challenging course that pushed Eman to her academic limits. Weekly 30-page reports transformed her writing and analytical thinking, helping her conquer past struggles and emerge with a newfound confidence in her scientific voice.

For Eman, UHCL offered more than just an education — it provided a community of support.

“Balancing coursework, research, and personal responsibilities hasn’t always been easy,” Eman admitted. “But UHCL’s faculty and student services made all the difference. Whether through office hours, tutoring, or just someone to talk to, I always had someone in my corner.”

Outside the classroom, Eman has also made her mark as the president of UHCL’s Chemistry Club. The role has allowed her to connect with peers who share her enthusiasm for science and has provided her with invaluable leadership experience. Her dedication has not gone unnoticed. As a recipient of the prestigious Welch Scholarship, Eman was recognized for her academic excellence and research potential.

“Being a Welch Scholar validates the hard work I’ve put into my studies,” Eman said. “It motivates me to keep pushing forward and gives me the freedom to fully engage in my education without worrying as much about finances.”

With graduate school on the horizon, Eman is focused on continuing her studies at UHCL and one day inspiring students as her professors inspired her.

Her advice to future students? Dive in early. “Get involved in research,” Eman urged. “It’s not just about textbooks — it’s about asking original questions, making discoveries, and finding your voice as a scientist.”

Furthermore, Eman highly recommends UHCL’s Chemistry Program to others, citing its accessible professors, cutting-edge research tools, and accelerated path to a master’s degree.

Eman Alwarsh found her voice at UHCL. Now she is ready to use it to teach, inspire, and lead the next generation of scientists, and that is exactly the kind of future UHCL is preparing its students to create.

For more information about UHCL’s Chemistry Program, visit www.uhcl.edu/science-engineering/departments/physical-applied-sciences/chemistry/.  For more information about getting involved on campus, visit www.uhcl.edu/student-affairs/student-engagement/student-involvement/getinvolve.

In a world where student leadership often flickers in the shadow of academic demands, University of Houston-Clear Lake (UHCL) junior Sunny Rodrigues has ignited a lasting flame that has illuminated new paths of engagement, service, and student empowerment. Sunny was recently awarded the prestigious Talon Achievement Award, the highest recognition bestowed upon a student leader at UHCL. This honor celebrates outstanding leadership and a long-term, transformative impact on campus life.

Winning the Talon Achievement Award was a moment of reflection and humility for Sunny. “I was speechless. This award isn’t just about me — it’s about everyone who poured into me along the way,” said Sunny. “It represents years of collaboration, resilience, and love for this campus.”

Matthew Perry, associate dean of students, added that as UHCL’s first-ever Talon Achievement Award recipient, “Sunny has shown exemplary student leadership and continues to ignite and extend his student leadership across campus.”

Sunny’s UHCL journey began like many others — as a curious transfer student attending campus events. But what followed was nothing short of extraordinary.

 “UHCL stood out to me for its close-knit community and strong focus on student success,” Sunny recalled. “The leadership opportunities here were abundant, and I wanted to make the most of them.”

Sunny did more than that. From revitalizing the Board Game Association (BGA) to co-founding the Catholic Faith Ministry, his leadership journey became a blueprint for meaningful student engagement. Under his guidance, BGA became one of the university’s most dynamic student organizations, earning titles such as Organization of the Year, Collaboration Award, and Outstanding Event of the Year. Through partnerships with local businesses like Discovery Green and Raising Cane’s, Sunny boosted BGA’s visibility while strengthening UHCL’s connection to the surrounding community.

Sunny’s leadership extended beyond events and awards. With over 100 hours of service through the Servant Leader Scholar Program and active participation in the Interfaith Caring Ministries food bank, his contributions have touched lives well beyond the campus borders.

Despite excelling in many areas of his life, balancing academics, service, and leadership came with challenges. “There were times it felt overwhelming,” Sunny admitted. “But I learned to manage my time, lean on my mentors, and always lead purposefully.”

One of those key mentors was Dr. Randy Seevers, who helped instill the principles of servant leadership and long-term vision in Sunny. The support from his peers and the Office of Student Involvement and Leadership (OSIL) also helped shape his path.

“I know if I want to ‘make things happen’, I can reach out to Sunny, and he will eagerly take on responsibilities and promptly follow through with all requests,” said Dr. Seevers. “Beyond doubt, Mr. Rodrigues is a highly energetic, service-oriented, and competent individual. The quality of his work is consistently outstanding, far exceeding my expectations,” Dr. Seevers continued. “His leadership skills are amongst the strongest I have seen, from my work as a faculty advisor to several student organizations over the past 25 years.”

Sunny is pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering, with a minor in Engineering Management and Education. After graduation, he plans to return to UHCL to obtain a Master of Science in Engineering Management to combine his technical expertise with his passion for team empowerment and leadership.

“At UHCL, I have developed my leadership, project management, public speaking, event coordination, time management, problem-solving, and team collaboration skills,” said Sunny. “Through academic and service experiences, I have also strengthened my ability to work with diverse groups, communicate effectively, and lead with integrity. These skills are preparing me to succeed in engineering management and leadership roles after graduation.”

As for his legacy at UHCL? It lives on in every student who finds a sense of belonging at a game night, volunteers for a community cause, or steps into their first leadership role with courage and conviction.

His advice for future student leaders is as clear as it is powerful: “Start early. Stay consistent. Serve with heart,” said Sunny. “The legacy you leave isn’t just about your accomplishments — it’s about the community you help build.”

Through vision, service, and relentless dedication, Sunny Rodrigues has not only elevated the student experience at UHCL — he has become a cornerstone of what leadership truly means.

For more information about getting involved and making a positive difference on campus, visit www.uhcl.edu/student-affairs/student-engagement/student-involvement/.

With over 13,000 associates worldwide, Syensqo is not just advancing science — it believes in nurturing the leaders who will drive the next wave of technological breakthroughs.

Syensqo’s commitment to supporting STEM education reflects its dedication to shaping the next generation of innovators. “We’re passionate about building the future of chemistry and chemical engineering,” said Dan Cummings, Syensqo plant manager. “This partnership with UHCL aligns perfectly with our mission and goals.”

Larisa Landry, senior global scholar advisor, expressed gratitude for Syensqo’s groundbreaking donation, which has inspired further support from key local partners like Lonza, ChampionX, and Logical Innovations, Inc.

“Syensqo’s pioneering gift launched this program and catalyzed additional support for these bright future scientists,” Landry said.

Want to make a difference? To learn more about UHCL’s Education Abroad and Scholar Services program or how to contribute to the next generation of innovators, contact Larisa Landry at landryl@uhcl.edu.

"UHCL’s Aerospace Engineering program represents a significant step forward in preparing students for high-demand and competitive fields such as the aerospace industry," said Dr. Christopher Maynard, Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost. “We are proud to serve as an educational partner for aerospace leaders in the region, helping to develop the workforce critical to the future of space exploration and innovation."

The program responds to the surging demand for aerospace engineers in Texas, where major employers such as NASA, Boeing, Lockheed Martin, and the Houston Spaceport are already driving aerospace innovation. According to the Texas Workforce Commission, the demand for aerospace engineers is expected to grow by 18.5% by 2030, outpacing national projections. UHCL’s program is one of only five bachelor’s programs in aerospace engineering offered in Texas and the only one within 100 miles of NASA’s Johnson Space Center, positioning the university as a vital hub for aerospace education in the Houston region.

UHCL’s AE program blends academic rigor with hands-on learning, ensuring that graduates have theoretical knowledge and practical experience. Students will master areas like fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, and solid mechanics while engaging in internships and collaborative projects with leading aerospace companies.

The new program leverages UHCL’s strong partnerships with industry leaders such as Boeing, KBR, and NASA. These alliances provide students with hands-on experience through internships and collaborative research projects. UHCL graduates will enter the workforce with a competitive edge, equipped with the technical skills and industry experience needed to succeed in the aerospace sector.

“By partnering with companies like Boeing and KBR, UHCL is offering students unique opportunities to work on real-world aerospace projects long before they graduate,” said Dr. Natalie Pecknold, Executive Director of Strategic Partnerships. “These experiences will provide students with an unparalleled foundation for their careers, whether they work on the next generation of spacecraft or contribute to innovations in commercial aviation.”

The program is housed in the 121,000-square-foot STEM and Classroom Building, which features state-of-the-art research and teaching labs. In the coming years, UHCL plans to expand its facilities to include five specialized labs dedicated to aerodynamics, aerospace design, propulsion, vibration & control, and aerospace materials & composites.

For more information about UHCL’s new Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering program, visit www.uhcl.edu/academics/degrees/aerospace-engineering-bs.

For many students, graduation day marks the culmination of years of hard work, challenges, and personal growth. But for Farwa Basith, University of Houston-Clear Lake’s (UHCL) Fall 2024 Commencement will be a momentous occasion in more ways than one. She will take the stage to share a story of resilience, leadership, and the transformative power of education as the selected commencement speaker for the College of Science and Engineering (CSE) and College of Human Sciences and Humanities (HSH).

Basith is receiving a Master of Science in Engineering Management and said she chose the field because it is the perfect blend of technical expertise and leadership skills.

 “I’ve always loved planning and organizing, and this degree has equipped me with the tools to manage projects, solve complex problems, and lead teams,” Basith shared. “I’ve also found a passion for helping organizations build efficient systems, and the drive to lead in project management roles post-graduation.”

For Basith, the choice to attend UH-Clear Lake was a personal one.

“From the moment I started exploring UHCL, it felt like home,” Basith said. “As an international student, I was drawn to the university’s welcoming and diverse community," she explained. 
“The small class sizes allowed me to build close connections with professors and peers, while the proximity to Houston opened doors to valuable internship and career opportunities.”

However, the journey was not without its challenges. Moving to a new country, adjusting to a different culture, and being far from family were among Basith’s biggest hurdles.

“Balancing school, work, and finances sometimes felt overwhelming, but I stayed focused on my goals and leaned on the people who supported me,” said Basith. “The support of professors, friends, and family played a crucial role in overcoming the toughest moments.”

Basith added that UHCL’s Engineering Management department was pivotal in her success. Courses like Project Planning and Control provided hands-on experience, while the supportive faculty helped hone her skills.

Throughout Basith’s journey at UHCL, she developed essential skills in project management, communication, and adaptability.

 “UHCL taught me how to think critically and approach real-world problems with confidence,” Basith said. “These skills are fundamental for my future career in project management.”

Basith also made significant contributions as an International Student Diplomat outside of the classroom. This role allowed her to connect with students from around the world, further developing leadership and communication skills.

 "It was a rewarding experience that helped me grow and feel connected to the UHCL community," Basith said. “It made me feel like I was a part of something bigger.”

As graduation approaches, Basith believes the future is filled with possibilities. Although she hasn't lined up a job yet, she is actively pursuing opportunities in project management.

“I’m excited about the future and confident that the experiences and skills I’ve gained at UHCL will help me find the right opportunity,” Basith said.

Basith expressed gratitude for the unwavering support of her family, especially her parents, stating that their belief in her, even from miles away, had been a constant source of strength. She also credits UHCL faculty and staff for their dedication to creating a supportive learning environment that made all the difference.

“Being selected as the commencement speaker for fall 2024 is a dream come true, it’s surreal,” Basith said. “I’m honored to represent my fellow graduates and share my journey. I hope to inspire others with my story of resilience and growth.”

For Basith, this commencement is not just the end of a chapter but the beginning of a new journey, as she reflected, saying, "This experience has been about more than just earning a degree; it’s about personal growth, building relationships, and discovering what I’m truly capable of."

As the fall 2024 graduates prepare to step into the next phase of their lives, Basith hopes her words will resonate with many: "Let’s go out there and make the world a better place in our own unique ways."

For more information about UHCL’s Engineering Management program visit www.uhcl.edu/academics/degrees/engineering-management-ms. For information about the fall 2024 commencement ceremony visit, www.uhcl.edu/academics/commencement/.

Srilekha Kalavacherla highlighted her experience, mentioning the incredible opportunity to collaborate with the brightest entrepreneurs in the life science and healthcare sectors.

“This journey led to our participation in a dynamic hackathon sponsored by Blackstone Launchpad, where it was our challenge to reduce medical waste of single-use medical equipment,” said Srilekha Kalavacherla. “Together with my talented team, we founded Green IV, a biodegradable medical device startup aimed at revolutionizing sustainable healthcare solutions. We chose to replace IV sets.”

Srilekha Kalavacherla’s team was awarded prize money to develop their idea further or invest in their personal growth. Currently pursuing her second Master of Science in Biotechnology with a specialization in Management, she shared that the summer camp broadened her career horizons and gave her a practical understanding of startup development, including teamwork, partnership-building, and overcoming financial challenges. The hands-on experience and exposure to industry professionals from across the nation were instrumental in shaping her understanding of the biotech landscape.

Additionally, Srilekha Kalavacherla appreciates that UH-Clear Lake’s Department of Biology and Biotechnology offers three career paths: Cellular and Molecular Biology, Bioinformatics, and Management Specializations.

Srilekha Kalavacherla is particularly thankful for the resources UHCL provides and her professors.

“I mention my deepest gratitude to Dr. Lory Santiago-Vázquez, Dr. Martha Ariza, Dr. Bazlur Rashid, and Dr. Silvana Chambers for encouraging me throughout these semesters,” said Srilekha Kalavacherla. “I shall also mention Dr. Jorge Tennin from the Student Success Center for honing my people management and time management skills during my tenure at his office.”

Dr. Lory Santiago-Vázquez, program director of Biotechnology, emphasized that participating in the camp at UTMB is an incredible opportunity for students to gain practical and advanced experience beyond the classroom. She hopes to send more students to participate in the program next year.

“The more opportunities we have for our students, the better,” said Santiago-Vázquez. “It’s great for students to learn and understand things, but employers want to know ‘what can they do?’ We want our students to have advanced biotechnical training rather than just taking classes,” she continued. “They think as scientists. Not only do they have fundamentals, but they can gather data, present it, write about it, troubleshoot it, teach their peers in the lab, organize the lab, and more.”

Furthermore, Santiago-Vázquez emphasized her commitment to finding new opportunities for students. She noted that UHCL is near major technology companies like Johnson Space Center, Boeing, UTMB, and Lockheed Martin. “We are dedicated to connecting our students with these organizations every day,” she said.

For more information about UHCL’s Biotechnology Program, visit www.uhcl.edu/science-engineering/departments/biology-biotechnology/biotechnology/.

Imagine gaining hands-on experience in aerospace engineering while working directly with a global leader in space technology. The Boeing Student Development Partnership makes this a reality for University of Houston-Clear Lake (UHCL) students, offering them paid, on-site positions at Boeing. Since launching in Fall 2022, over 40 students have participated in this workforce initiative. In early August, Diego Rojas and Jose Ramirez traveled to Huntsville, AL, for a month-long aerospace engineering training program with students from Saudi Arabia.

The program had two phases. In the first phase, students studied advanced architectural design at a Boeing facility in Houston, focusing on lunar and Martian missions with insights from NASA. In the second phase, they worked on real-world projects at a Boeing site in Alabama, including developing a carbon dioxide-removal system for lunar and Martian environments. This experience equipped them with invaluable skills in space technologies and aerospace sciences, preparing them for a future of cutting-edge innovation.

Rojas, a senior pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering at UH-Clear Lake, was attracted by the program's convenience and unique courses. His passion for the field began in high school when he built his own computer after years of saving. This experience led him to discover and pursue computer engineering.

As his junior year approached, Rojas looked for practical experience and found the Boeing Student Development opportunity through a flyer. Eager for real-world exposure, he applied, which led to this valuable experience. Rojas explained that the trip to Huntsville began with meeting an engineer from the Environmental Control and Life Support Systems team.

“When he inquired about microcontrollers and discovered that Jose Ramirez and I were well-versed in them, he offered us an exciting opportunity: to travel to Huntsville at the end of July,” said Rojas.

With no prior knowledge of Alabama’s culture or Boeing operations there, Rojas and Ramirez embraced the chance to learn and explore. Their mission was to teach students how to use microcontrollers and sensors to collect and analyze environmental data.

“In the first two days, we introduced the students to the fundamentals of microcontrollers and their engineering applications. The following days were dedicated to helping them debug code and interface with sensors,” said Rojas. “The highlight of the experience was witnessing their excitement as they realized the capabilities of combining different sensors to generate meaningful data.”

Additionally, Rojas and Ramirez toured several Boeing facilities, gaining insights into defense, environmental systems, and manufacturing operations. Rojas said the hands-on experience broadened their understanding and solidified their passion for the field.

 Since working with Boeing, Rojas has honed skills in FDM 3D printers, Arduino, electronics, and Unreal Engine.

“I work with a lot of mechanical, design, and manufacturing engineers so I am constantly exposed to what they do as well as their processes,” said Rojas.

Dr. Natalie Pecknold, executive director of Strategic Partnerships, said the Office of Strategic Partnerships is thrilled that UHCL students in the Boeing Student Development Partnership were selected to participate in this unique international collaborative opportunity.

“Not only are these students gaining technical and hands-on work experience while at Boeing, they are also developing their leadership and communication skills which are critical in today’s job market,” said Pecknold. “We are proud of Diego and Jose’s hard work in the program – they are exemplary UHCL Hawks!”

 Rojas believes that UHCL and Boeing are preparing him for a career in engineering because the opportunity the Office of Strategic Partnerships has provided him has allowed him to get his foot in the door in the field.

“Personally, this opportunity has been the highlight of my time at UHCL,” said Rojas. “This opportunity let me explore a multitude of fields which allows me to explore my interest, as well as garner some surface-level knowledge on fields I have no experience in.”

Rojas also stressed the importance of student internships and shared what helped him get his position at Boeing.  He highlighted three key elements: projects, broad basic knowledge, and passion.

“Projects apply and reinforce classroom concepts and are often more enjoyable than studying,” said Rojas. “A broad understanding of various subjects shows curiosity and a willingness to learn,” he continued. “Passion for creating and bringing ideas to life makes engineering exciting and fulfilling.”

For more information about the Office of Strategic Partnerships, visit www.uhcl.edu/strategic-partnerships/.

Dr. Nelson Carter, Senior Lecturer of Mathematics at the University of Houston-Clear Lake (UHCL) was recently named a 2024 Project New Experiences in Teaching (NExT) Fellow of the Mathematics Association of America (MAA). MAA’s Project NExT program is designed to support new or recent doctorates in mathematical sciences. The program prepares its fellows to become productive mathematics faculty members and future leaders of the mathematics community by fostering strong teaching, mentoring, and research skills. Project NExT annually selects a cohort of approximately 100 college and university faculty members across the United States and Canada.

Carter will be inducted into the ’24 Blue cohort at MathFest in August, joining Dr. Tom Fox, Department Chair of Mathematics and Statistics, who was inducted into the Silver Dot cohort in 1998.

“As a Project NExT alumnus, I was happy to see Nelson become a NExT fellow,” said Fox. “I have no doubt that he will benefit greatly from the mentoring it provides in teaching, research, and service as he continues his career as a faculty member in the Mathematics and Statistics Department here at UH-Clear Lake.”

Carter is engaging in a special pre-session focused on exploring alternative grading methods and is particularly eager to learn more about them.

“The abstract for the talk was intriguing because it challenges the typical method of ‘weighted averaging’ that most of us use,” said Carter. “I hope to integrate the information I learn into the core curriculum assessment process that Texas requires us to undergo for all core courses,” he continued. “Furthermore, I hope to incorporate what I learn into a capacity-building grant through the National Science Foundation (NSF) I’m working on with my colleagues.”

Although research support is an important aspect of NExT, Dr. Carter is more interested in the professional development opportunities related to teaching and mentorship. He aims to help students achieve their career goals, doing whatever he can to help them get their start.

“Unquestionably, NExT will make me a better teacher, which is why the program originally piqued my interest,” said Carter. “However, being a first-generation college student from the Houston area who attended UHCL, I find the mentoring opportunities even more exciting.”

Building on this passion for mentorship, Carter also addressed the key challenges and opportunities in mathematics education today, noting UHCL’s active role in addressing these through its programs.

“One thing is trying to help our students who lost learning opportunities during the pandemic. That’s a multifaceted challenge,” said Carter. “In terms of opportunity, I think integrating mathematics education into a more overarching STEM education is a big opportunity,” Carter explained. “To some people, STEM is an umbrella term for Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics. In other words, any one area is considered STEM. But research shows we should focus more on integrating STEM holistically.”

Ultimately, Carter’s goal is to impart knowledge and inspire a lifelong passion for learning in his students. He hopes his students look back on their experience with him years later, smile, and are proud of what they have become.

For more information about UHCL’s Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction program, contact Dr. Omah M Williams-Duncan at duncano@uhcl.edu. For information about UHCL’s B.S. or M.S. programs in Mathematics or Statistics, contact Dr. Tom Fox at fox@uhcl.edu.

Dr. Jennifer Irvin has been named the new dean of the College of Science and Engineering at the University of Houston-Clear Lake (UHCL), effective August 1, 2024. With a strong academic background and over 15 years of experience at Texas State University, Dr. Irvin brings a proven track record of leadership and innovation to her new role.

Irvin completed her Ph.D. in Chemistry at the University of Florida, following her Bachelor of Science and Master of Science in Chemistry from Texas State University. Dr. Irvin had a distinguished faculty career at Texas State, achieving the rank of full professor and making significant contributions in teaching and research.

In her leadership capacities, Irvin has successfully managed several strategic initiatives. As the director of the Materials Application Research Center (MARC) at Texas State University, she managed a $3M annual budget and significantly advanced applied research and entrepreneurship efforts. She also held directorial positions in the Shared Research Operations at Texas State and the Materials Science, Engineering, and Commercialization (MSEC) program, where her efforts were pivotal in identifying research opportunities and fostering innovation.

As dean, Irvin aims to prepare students for success by aligning the college’s curriculum with the latest technological advancements and industry demands.

“Innovation is at the heart of STEM,” said Irvin. “Our disciplines evolve rapidly, and we must keep up with the changes,” she continued. “It is important that we identify opportunities to grow into new areas, developing programs to meet the evolving needs of the region and the interests of our students.”

She is also committed to expanding the college’s academic offerings and enhancing professional development opportunities for students, such as internships and cooperative education.

“I believe everyone in the College of Science and Engineering shares this goal,” said Irvin. “It means equipping our students not only with the technical skills but also with the career opportunities they need to thrive.”

Irvin is honored to join UHCL's vibrant community of passionate learners, dedicated educators, and innovative researchers.

“Together we have tremendous potential to make a positive difference in the world,” said Irvin.

For more information about UHCL’s College of Science and Engineering, visit www.uhcl.edu/science-engineering/. 

A University of Houston- Clear Lake (UHCL) team of mechanical engineering students, Artifices Lunaris, has emerged as one of only 13 teams nationwide to advance in NASA's prestigious Micro-g NExT Design Challenge. This annual competition invites undergraduate students to design, build, and test a tool or device that addresses real-world space exploration challenges. In June, the team was selected to test their prototype, a Hand Carrier for the Lunar EVA Tool, at NASA’s Johnson Space Center’s Neutral Buoyancy Lab (NBL). If the design is selected, NASA divers test the tools while the students direct the divers from the Test Conductor Room of the NBL facility.

 The Artifices Lunaris team, comprised of Adrian Garcia, Blair Mitchell, Buvaneshraj Saravanan, and Omar Tubeishat and guided by their faculty sponsor, Dr. Kazi Md Masum Billah, excelled with their innovative proposal among numerous national entries. Their device aims to simplify the transportation and handling of geological sampling tools on the moon, focusing on ergonomics, dust tolerance, and reliability – a critical step towards ensuring astronaut efficiency during missions.

The 2024 challenge focused on Orion crew safety and lunar extravehicular activities (EVA) operations during the Artemis missions and allowed students to apply their knowledge and skills to real-world problems. Billah, Assistant Professor of Mechanical Engineering, said it is an incredible honor to be selected as one of only 13 teams to advance in the challenge nationwide, and it reflects the hard work and dedication of the students.

“This selection reflects our students' hard work and dedication and highlights the innovative spirit and technical expertise fostered within our program,” said Billah. “It is a testament to the commitment and talent of our team, and we are thrilled to have this unique opportunity to contribute to NASA’s Artemis missions.”

Preparing the students for this challenge involved a comprehensive approach that combined theoretical knowledge with practical application. In the Fall of 2023 at the Senior Design Project, the team started with an in-depth understanding of the specific challenges posed by the Artemis missions and the requirements set forth by NASA.

“This was followed by iterative design sessions, prototyping, and rigorous testing in Spring 2024,” said Billah. “I also emphasized the importance of teamwork, communication, and project management skills. Additionally, we collaborated with the NASA engineers to ensure our designs met the highest standards of functionality and innovation.”

Participating in the Micro-g NExT Design Challenge offers invaluable experience for students. It allows them to apply classroom learning to real-world engineering problems, fostering a sense of accomplishment and excitement about contributing to space exploration.

“I hope to guide and support future student teams in this challenge,” said Billah. “This group of students, known as The Artifices Lunaris, is unique due to their diverse backgrounds, interdisciplinary approach, and unwavering dedication to the project,” Billah continued. “They bring together a mix of skills and perspectives, from mechanical engineering to project management, allowing them to tackle complex problems creatively and effectively. Their passion for space exploration and commitment to excellence set them apart as a remarkable team.”

Billah also highlighted the impact of mentorship and support from UH-Clear Lake and NASA NBL engineers. The Artifices Lunaris team’s success is a result of their hard work and the guidance and resources provided by the mechanical engineering program and UHCL.

Billah emphasized the importance of experiential learning opportunities in preparing students for worldly challenges and inspiring the next generation of engineers and innovators. He noted that this challenge demonstrates the value of such opportunities and how they can foster innovation, teamwork, and critical thinking.

Omar Tubeishat, a recent graduate and team member, shared insights into the team’s extensive preparation.

“Our preparation involved rigorous planning and extensive research. We spent countless hours brainstorming, designing, and testing our prototype,” said Tubeishat. “We also sought advice from our professors and industry experts, and we conducted multiple iterations to refine our design. Teamwork and communication were crucial throughout this process.”

Artifices Lunaris’ idea stemmed from identifying a specific problem within the challenge guidelines and brainstorming innovative solutions.

“We conducted a thorough literature review to understand existing technologies and then used creative thinking sessions to generate unique ideas. Our design was the result of collaborative efforts, combining various concepts into a feasible prototype,” said Tubesihat.

Tubeishat recalled that the best part of the challenge was the collaborative spirit and diverse perspectives each team member brought to the table.

“We learned a lot from each other, and the process of transforming our ideas into a tangible prototype was incredibly rewarding,” said Tubesihat. “This challenge is a fantastic opportunity that fosters innovation, teamwork, and critical thinking. We hope our participation inspires future UHCL students to take on similar challenges and continue our legacy of excellence.”

 UHCL has provided an enriching and fulfilling learning experience for Tubesihat, equipping him with the technical skills, critical thinking abilities, personal and academic growth, and hands-on experience needed to pursue a career as an aerospace engineer.

“The practical projects and industry connections facilitated by UHCL have been instrumental in shaping my career path,” said Tubeishat. “The supportive faculty, diverse student body, and ample resources have all contributed to a conducive learning environment,” he continued. “I would like to emphasize the importance of mentorship and support from our professors and the UHCL community. Their guidance has been invaluable in our journey.”

The selection underscores the strength and competitiveness of UHCL’s Mechanical Engineering program. The College of Science and Engineering at UHCL is distinguished by its commitment to providing a hands-on, experiential learning environment, with programs designed to integrate cutting-edge research, industry partnerships, and practical experience.

The College of Science and Engineering at UHCL has a dedicated, collaborative, and like-minded faculty, state-of-the-art facilities, and a strong focus on innovation and collaboration, preparing students to excel in their careers and make significant contributions to their fields.

For more information about UHCL’s College of Science and Engineering visit, www.uhcl.edu/science-engineering/. For more information about Micro-g NExT, visit www.nasa.gov/learning-resources/micro-g-neutral-buoyancy-experiment-designteams/.

Dr. David Garrison, Associate Dean of University of Houston- Clear Lake’s (UHCL) College of Science and Engineering, has been named the 2024 Sloan Scholars Mentoring Network (SSMN) Higher Education Professional of the Year. The award recognizes an outstanding Sloan Scholar alumnus who has made significant contributions to their field. Garrison has dedicated 22 years of his career to UH-Clear Lake, making substantial contributions through his roles in research, teaching, and administration. This recognition reflects his passion, dedication, and innovative efforts to the field of STEM.

“I felt honored to be the recipient,” Garrison said. “There are a lot of highly qualified sloan alumni who could’ve won the award. To get selected out of the group is very impressive to me.”

Since Garrison’s arrival, UHCL and the College of Science and Engineering has transformed in numerous ways.  He served twice as president of UHCL’s faculty senate, as director of graduate programs, and as chair of the Physical Science Program and Physics Program, which he founded. He also helped establish the Center for Faculty Development.

Garrison successfully developed and oversaw the approval of various programs, including a revised bachelor's degree in physical science, a bachelor's degree in physics, an engineering physics sub-plan, a master’s degree in physics, a Computational Physics sub-plan, a professional Master of Physics sub-plan in Technical Management, and a collaborative Ph.D. program in physics. He initiated a distinguished lecture series featuring industry experts from NASA and the community, such as Neal Lane, President Bill Clinton’s science advisor, and Jim Gates, a distinguished professor from The University of Maryland. His research in computational and theoretical physics includes work in numerical relativity and cosmology.

Garrison discovered his love for STEM at an early age, attending science camp every summer and visiting the Museum of Science and Industry in his hometown Chicago. He always wanted to explore how things worked, solve the mysteries of the field, and use his creativity to advance STEM.

“I was experimenting a lot with science, radio-controlled airplanes and computers at a pretty young age,” said Garrison. “The museum was my favorite place to go in Chicago,” he continued. “When we moved to Missouri, I was always at the science center. There was always a progression of the things I wanted to pursue.”

Garrison chose to work at UHCL because he believed he could cultivate the College of Science and Engineering program at UHCL with his ideas.

“In higher education, ideas can be debated and discussed. There is academic freedom and ideas can be pursued,” said Garrison. “When I was in graduate school, I wasn’t thinking about a career in higher education. I was looking at working in a government lab as a researcher,” Garrison explained. “What inspired me to get into higher education was the thought of building an academic program and shaping what people were going to learn, building the knowledge they will have, and what they can do with that knowledge.”

Many of Garrison’s students have graduated from the program and have found success in their professional careers under his leadership. He believes it is a leader’s obligation to study leadership and constantly learn how to be the best leader possible.

“As a faculty member, especially a physicist, someone gives you a problem and you solve it,” said Garrison. “As a physics instructor, you give students problems and walk them through solving it,” Garrison continued. “As an administrator, you have to talk to people involved in a problem and those who are affected by it to get their perspective, and come up with a solution together. It’s not a simple thing, and this is what I’ve learned over the decades that went into the award.”  

Garrison also highlighted UHCL’s unique relationship with non-traditional students, setting the College of Engineering a part from other universities. A program once mainly filled with students who work at NASA has grown to include students from various backgrounds.

Garrison said the field is full of opportunities to advance and amazing things to discover that people thought weren’t possible, and STEM researchers make them work.

“I like to solve problems that no one else can solve,” said Garrison. “I love challenges, and to know that research is something we can ‘sink our teeth into’ makes me happy.”

Garrison continues to research, teach, and publish, aiming to bring more innovative practices to UHCL.

For more information about UHCL’s College of Science and Engineering, visit www.uhcl.edu/science-engineering/.

Are you looking for a summer youth program that combines education and enjoyment? KidsU at University of Houston-Clear Lake (UHCL) is now open for enrollment. Every summer, the Center for Educational Programs at UH-Clear Lake offers KidsU camps, which provide campers with opportunities to learn about science, math, reading, literacy, technology, and culture. KidsU offers enrichment programs for children from pre-kindergarten to 12th grade, allowing them to explore a world of opportunities and foster growth and discovery. These programs offer learning and fun-filled activities tailored to each age group, creating memorable experiences for every participant at both the Clear Lake campus and UHCL at Pearland.

Over the course of seven weeks, students can choose from classes like knitting, claymation, intro to graphic design, game design and development, bookmaking, Roblox, animation, creating with Canva, and more. The cost for KidsU at the Clear Lake campus is $180 per course, and it runs from June 3, 2024 to Aug.2. The cost for KidsU at UHCL at Pearland has special pricing available through May 19. Science camps are $130, technology camps are $100, and discounts will be applied at checkout. Camps at this location also run from June 3, 2024 to Aug.2.

For more information and a list of KidsU summer camp classes at the Clear Lake Campus, visit www.uhcl.edu/education/centers-initiatives/center-educational-programs/kids-u/summer-camps-clear-lake. For a list of summer camp classes at UHCL at Pearland, visit www.uhcl.edu/education/centers-initiatives/center-educational-programs/kids-u/summer-camps-pearland. 

In celebration of Women’s History Month, the University of Houston-Clear Lake (UHCL) highlighted pioneering achievements in STEM at the ‘Honoring Trailblazing Women Leaders in STEM’ event. This special occasion, hosted by the Women in STEM Community of Practice, recognized Dr. Mary Jo Parker, a faculty member in the Natural Sciences department at the University of Houston-Downtown (UHD). Dr. Parker, who also leads UHD’s Scholars Academy as Executive Director, was celebrated for her significant contributions to supporting STEM majors through scholarships, mentoring, and professional development initiatives.

Bringing extensive experience in curriculum and development, Parker is committed to closing the achievement gap for minority STEM students. During the ceremony, she recalled her mother being an ‘innovator,’ which influenced her passion at a young age.

“You have to share your wisdom and experiences with students,” said Parker. “They need guidance, and it’s so easy for me to bring on the tough love, because I want students to succeed.”

Parker has dedicated over a decade to UHD, making her the longest-serving director at the university. Alongside other pioneering leaders, she is committed to motivating women to explore careers in STEM. The event facilitated networking and community building among faculty and students from UHCL, College of the Mainland, San Jacinto College South, San Jacinto College Central, University of Houston-Downtown (UHD), and Texas Southern University (TSU). These connections are further enriched by collaborations with local industry partners, fostering a bridge between academic endeavors and industry demands. For more information about STEM programs and initiatives at UHCL, visit www.uhcl.edu/science-engineering/.

University of Houston-Clear Lake (UHCL) will host its annual spring 2024 STEM Challenge on Saturday, April 13, 2024, in UH-Clear Lake’s Bayou Building and STEM Building. This team-based competition, offering both Programming and Science Tracks, promises a day full of enrichment, awards, scholarships to UHCL up to $3,000, prizes and much more. Teams will engage in a series of challenges encompassing logic, engineering, programming, and science, showcasing their critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Lupita Hernandez, STEM Careers Program Director, said that the STEM Challenge provides a unique opportunity for local high schools, community colleges, and universities to engage in hands-on STEM activities. The event is designed to foster a stress-free environment, encouraging students to explore and pursue STEM careers. By offering scholarships, UHCL aims to support future students in achieving their career goals at UHCL.

“We want students to feel like UHCL is home for them, and that they can pursue a degree in STEM and be successful at our university,” said Hernandez. “Not only can students receive scholarships for winning the challenges, but this event is beneficial as students will have access to network with STEM faculty, current students, and learn about mentorship opportunities.”

Participants will have the option to tour UHCL’s campus after the event. The challenge is free and open to high school and undergraduate students. Students are encouraged to register as teams of no more than four students. Students with no teams can register individually and be assigned to a team.

Registration opens on Thursday, March 7, 2024. Secure your spot and learn more by visiting www.uhcl.edu/stem-challenge.

When John Paul Garcia finished high school, he had a full academic scholarship to University of Houston (UH) to study engineering. But in 1994, he paused his education and entered the workforce. Garcia intended to finish school, but with his growing family and a long work commute, the timing was very compressed for the Houston native. Although things turned out differently than he expected, he knew he wanted to finish what he started.

 Once Garcia proceeded with his quest to complete his degree, he decided to attend the University of Houston- Clear Lake (UHCL). Not only did he acquire one degree, but he acquired two. Garcia received a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science in 2016, and a Master of Science in Computer Science in 2018.  

“UH-Clear Lake was a natural decision for me,” Garcia said. “In 1995, I promised myself I would finish my education no matter what life threw at me. I am nothing if not persistent.”  

When Garcia started school at UHCL in 2013, he had already built a cybersecurity career bringing technology solutions to large companies in Houston. But he said he still had to keep his promise to himself. According to Garcia, UHCL offered a rigorous curriculum that aided his professional development and gave him the confidence to tackle any challenge in the computing sector.

“Computer Science is a field of study that is applicable in most professional settings,” said Garcia. “I've started a single person consultancy called ‘Office Productivity Solutions’ where I help companies get the most from their current and future technology investments securely and sustainably. UHCL equipped me with a skillset that has allowed me to pursue these objectives.” 

During his collegiate journey, Garcia said he experienced some minor setbacks.  

“There were some family health issues. Fortunately, UHCL served as a support system, enabling me to work through issues I had in my personal life. No question about it, the staff at UHCL are outstanding,” said Garcia.

While attending UHCL, Garcia recalled two faculty members who influenced him the most.  

“Dr. Sharon Hall and I coincidentally have a common friend, and she was a wonderful mentor in forming my plans,” said Garcia. “Dr. Al- Mubaid was also always willing to help when it came to focusing on my career plans and completing the curriculum.” 

Garcia currently runs his cybersecurity business, enjoys exercising and playing chess. The avid runner has completed over 20 marathons and loves all things cybersecurity.        

 “I’ve always loved puzzles, so cybersecurity ‘fills the bill.’ It requires a lot of out-of-the- box thinking and reverse engineering of systems and attack vectors,” Garcia said. “I love the idea of protecting businesses and systems; that’s what cybersecurity is all about.” 

Garcia developed a passion for cybersecurity at a young age and built his first computer at 15. Over the years, he has completed risk assessments, deployed secure wireless networks, enabled remote access using encrypted security keys, and even migrated data across the public internet using VPNs. He credits UHCL for helping prepare him for this work, and wants students to know that UHCL is always in their corner and to take advantage of all the resources available to complete their studies.

 He added that UH has a nationally broadcasted radio segment, “The Engines of Our Ingenuity,” that continues to inspire him to develop great solutions, and is worth a listen for students needing creative stimulation. 

For more information about UHCL’s Computer Science program, visit www.uhcl.edu/academics/degrees/computer-science-bs 

Additive manufacturing (AM) involves building an object layer by layer, typically using 3D computer-aided design (CAD).

The findings of this research are expected to generate new knowledge on material-extrusion based AM of embedded heating composite molds for energy-efficient composite manufacture.

The researchers involved in the study are Assistant Professor of Mechanical Engineering Kazi Billah and mechanical engineering students; Neel Rathod, Jeffrey “Jeff” Gleasman and Mario Gonzales.

 They all agreed that this project helped them develop technical and communication skills, benefiting their future careers.

“In research, if you cannot effectively communicate your work with the rest of the scientific community, it doesn’t matter whether you discover the next big thing; it will have no value,” said Rathod.

Rathod transferred to UH-Clear Lake after receiving an Associate of Science in Mathematics from San Jacinto Community College. He chose to attend UHCL because of its convenient location and the Mechanical Engineering program, which aligned with his professional goals.

Rathod chose mechanical engineering due to his interest in the science of how machines work and his desire to make a notable impact on this project.

 Gleasman is a transfer student from San Jacinto Community College who dreams of becoming an aerospace engineer and contributing to space exploration. His lifelong passion for science, coupled with his experience as a military intelligence officer in the U.S. Army and certification courses he completed, have fueled his interest in working on this project.

 “I was excited to be a part of this novel project because it bridged the gap between classroom theory and practical application, going from a concept sketch to a practical application,” said Gleasman.

Gleasman was inspired by Billah’s passion for research and his ability to inspire students toward innovative thinking. The project has been a great learning experience for him as it has helped him to improve his 3D computer-aided design (CAD) modeling and design skills, as well as his knowledge of the maintenance and operation of 3D. Gleasman believes effective teamwork is as essential as technical skills when completing projects.

“We learned where to focus our time and that in certain prototyping processes, capability and functionality can be of higher priority, while aesthetics can be addressed as the design matures,” said Gleasman.

 Mario Gonzales reached out to Billah for an opportunity to work on the project due to his curiosity about how machines work.

  “It sounded really exciting and interesting to me,” Gonalez said. “Our research focuses on additive manufacturing and composite materials. It consists of designing parts, manufacturing them, and testing them.”

Gonzales also mentioned that the team is developing a tool head for a 3D printer that can embed wire within a plastic part while 3D printing.

“From researching information to designing the components and manufacturing prototypes, all of the research assistants have been heavily involved,” said Gonzales. “The current design has been achieved by bringing everyones' ideas together.”

Since beginning the project in July 2023, the students have gained valuable information and would like to highlight Billah's ambition and hardworking nature.

“This project could not have been done alone. I am inspired and humbled by such a talented and motivated team of fellow students under Dr. Billah's guidance and mentorship,” Gleasman explained. “I am excited to take my understanding of design, automation and systems integration to the next level.”

Gleasman expressed his hope that the team would gain valuable experience and learn from it as they advance into their careers.

According to Billah, this project is crucial in UHCL's pursuit of scientific excellence and innovation while also inspiring future generations of STEM enthusiasts.

For more information about UHCL’s College of Science and Engineering, visit www.uhcl.edu/science-engineering/.

Every year, select faculty members are recognized and awarded either for their achievements at University of Houston-Clear Lake, within the community, or both. Among the honorees for 2023 was Hisham Al-Mubaid, a professor of computer science and computer systems in the College of Science and Engineering. Al-Mubaid received the 2023 President’s Distinguished Research Award as a testament to his professional triumphs throughout his tenure at UH-Clear Lake. This award recognizes professional feats in a discipline or field through published work, exhibitions, or similar activity, as recognized by peers for high contribution to the intellectual growth of an academic area.

Al-Mubaid’s colleagues can attest to his extraordinary academic accomplishments. “He has been very active in all aspects of research and scholarly activities, including producing high-quality publications, developing grant proposals, helping graduate and undergraduate students to develop their research skills, etc.,” one of his fellow professors said. Many of his students also shared positive feedback, describing him as a “respected” professor, “a good helper,” and “very sincere and keen about student learning.”

He received his Ph.D. in Computer Science from the University of Texas at Dallas with a Distinguished Dissertation Award in 2000 and began teaching at UH-Clear Lake the following year. He served as chair of Computer Information Systems (CIS) from 2009-2015. Since 2000, he has had nearly 100 works published on a wide range of topics, including word sense disambiguation, data mining, and most recently, functional annotation of disease genes for disease clustering.

Today, his research interests focus on natural language processing and bioinformatics, including data mining, machine learning, and biomedical text mining. He is actively working to prove the virtue of the context-based approach to natural language processing (NLP). He developed several algorithms and systems to prove the point, including detecting and correcting context-based errors, word prediction, word classification, text categorization, biomedical term disambiguation, and document clustering.

“Both Machine Learning (ML) and Natural Language Processing (NLP) exist under the umbrella of Artificial Intelligence (AI), which is a subject that I like,” he said. “I like this subject (AI) because it wants to simulate or imitate human thinking (natural intelligence) in solving problems; as you know, nowadays, AI is the most important topic in the world. Bioinformatics is also one of my favorite areas of science, and it also adapts and imports from AI.”

Students and community members have benefited from Al-Mubaid’s expertise, as he gives at least one technical presentation annually. He also developed four new courses for the university, but his contributions to the UHCL community didn’t end there. He also secured funding for five external grants and received an S-STEM grant from the National Science Foundation for just under $1 million. As a result, students who needed financial assistance could complete their education and pursue a STEM-related profession.

For more information about the President's Distinguished Faculty Awards, visit www.uhcl.edu/human-resources/service-awards/. 

Barrios Technology, a woman-owned aerospace company, has established a scholarship endowment at University of Houston- Clear Lake to help students overcome financial hurdles in acquiring a college education.  

The company has a long history of supporting STEM-focused initiatives at the university, including equal access for all students. The scholarship endowment was specifically established for students in the College of Science and Engineering at UH- Clear Lake. Barrios structured the endowment to make use of matching funds available from a "Supporting Diversity in STEM Careers" grant that UHCL received from the U.S. Department of Education.  

UHCL alumna Sandy Johnson, who earned her Master of Business Administration at the university in 1982, founded Barrios Technology in 1980. Johnson's daughter, Kelly Page, joined the company in 2006, and with increasing levels of management responsibility, she joined the Barrios executive leadership team in 2019, focusing heavily on business development. Barrios named her president of the company in 2021.  

"Partnering with UHCL to optimize the match opportunity was an easy decision," Page said. “Barrios is passionate about developing the aerospace industry and I am excited to lead the company in its purpose of passionately advancing humanity, both on and off the planet, with innovative technology integration solutions.” 

With over four decades of serving government and commercial space programs, Barrios Technology continues to build on its dedication to contributing time and resources to make a long-lasting impact on the community. 

For more information about UHCL’s College of Science and Engineering, visit www.uhcl.edu/science-engineering/. 

University of Houston-Clear Lake and KBR have signed a partnership agreement creating internship opportunities for students from across multiple academic disciplines to gain valuable professional experience in the aerospace industry. UH-Clear Lake President Richard Walker and KBR Vice President of Human Exploration Laurie Labra signed the agreement Wednesday, Sept. 27.

“At UHCL, we are focused on the kind of workforce development that is needed here in Bay Area Houston, and that’s why we are very excited about this partnership,” Walker said. “We are working strategically with industry and community partners to think about how our students can get the best out-of-classroom experiential learning opportunities.”

Walker said this the UHCL-KBR agreement would offer more than just internships for students. “This gives them the chance to take what they’re learning in the classroom and apply it to a real-world industry need,” he said. “Students are being specifically recruited to get these hands-on opportunities, and we know this will open doors for them when they graduate, both at KBR and elsewhere.”

Walker added this was the second strategic partnership in the aerospace industry, having signed a similar agreement last year with Boeing. “We are all working together to support the needs of industry in the Bay Area,” he said.

 “We are thrilled to celebrate KBR’s newest partnership with UHCL, aimed at providing interns for NASA’s Integrated Mission Operations Contract (IMOC) III,” Labra said. “Serving as the prime contractor for this significant, $1.9 billion endeavor, KBR works hard every day to enhance human spaceflight initiatives, including vital contributions to the International Space Station, Artemis, and Low Earth Orbit commercialization.”

She added that it was also integral to their mission to inspire and train the next generation to help reach their goals. “The establishment of this highly sought-after internship program will offer elevated, hands-on learning experiences at Johnson Space Center to deserving students in the area—with benefits extending beyond STEM to the liberal arts and business fields,” Labra continued. “KBR has been happy to collaborate with UHCL and its students on various projects throughout the years. We take immense pride in the enduring strength of this relationship and anticipate its expansion into other human exploration programs in the coming years.”

The agreement was facilitated through UHCL’s Office of Strategic Partnerships, which supports initiatives that enhance and increase experiential learning opportunities for students, and increases their opportunities to participate in internships that will help prepare them for a successful career. For more information about resources available through OSP, visit www.uhcl.edu/strategic-partnerships/

Inspiring Programs in STEM Award winners were selected by INSIGHT Into Diversity based on efforts to inspire and encourage a new generation of young people to consider careers in STEM through mentoring, teaching, research, and successful programs and initiatives.

 “The UHCLTeach program is the recipient of the 2023 Insight Into Diversity Inspiring Programs in STEM Award, which is very exciting as it honors the amazing work we are doing with the program at UHCL,” said Lecturer in Secondary Science and Math Education Takisha Bolden-Gastile. “Students have the opportunity to receive scholarships from the Hawkins Grant and the Robert Noyce Grant, paid internships, and a Summer Institute which provides our preservice teachers professional development to enhance their teaching skills. Our students are leaving the university with teaching contracts and are able to come back and be mentors to the UHCLTeach pre-service students.”

 “We know that many STEM programs are not always recognized for their success, dedication, and mentorship for underrepresented students,” said Lenore Pearlstein, owner and publisher of INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine. “We want to honor the schools and organizations that have created programs that inspire and encourage young people who may currently be in or are interested in a future career in STEM. We are proud to honor these programs as role models to other institutions of higher education and beyond.”

 A call for nominations for this award was announced in April 2023.

 For more information about the 2023 Inspiring Programs in STEM Award and INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine, visit insightintodiversity.com.  To learn more about opportunities in the UHCLTeach  program, visit www.uhcl.edu/science-engineering/centers-initiatives/uhclteach/. 

They work together, not just in University of Houston-Clear Lake’s Alfred R. Neumann Library, but as part of the same cohort in a Master of Library Science program at Texas Woman’s University, set to graduate this summer.

And although their master's degree isn’t from UH-Clear Lake, their final practicum project, which they are completing together, will benefit Hawks in the Neumann Library. The project reflects elements of both their interests and personalities—some creativity along with some art and design skills, and lots of technology.

Donna, who is in her fourth year as the supervisor of Circulation Services in the library, said their final practicum requires students to innovate and implement a new learning opportunity in a library.

“Andrew and I decided to propose creating a makerspace in the Neumann Library,” she said. “There’s a trend in bringing a makerspace into educational settings that include high tech elements as well as ‘low tech,’ which for our project, would include implementing textiles, sewing, fabric, origami, geometrical designs, and even just simple drawings that could translate to creating a model for something bigger.”

A makerspace is a collaborative workspace inside a school, library or work area that is designated for making, learning, exploring or sharing ideas using high tech, low tech, or even no tech tools. Spaces are open to students and have a variety of “maker” equipment, like sewing machines, 3D printers, laser cutters, and the like.

Andrew, who is a copy cataloger in the library, said he had experience with 3D printing and the technology had advanced so much, it was possible to have one in a library or even at home.

“A makerspace serves to further the role of a library,” he said. “It’s a space where emergent and innovative technology is available to people. It’s still expensive, so this is a place to go where you can get access to it free and with support. The impetus is to pursue what you want to do with the technology. There are so many possibilities.”

Donna said that the ideas coming out of a makerspace could have implications reaching as far as NASA. “The creative side of this practicum is what’s in my wheelhouse,” she said.

“I can see how some STEM-related projects can translate into something useful,” she explained. “With textiles and sewing, I can see the ties to NASA because their use of parachutes, and even the astronauts’ suits, involve fabric, different kinds of thread and sewing. Everything in NASA’s Neutral Buoyancy Lab are textiles on metal.”

 In a makerspace, she continued, all the tools can be brought together so students have something very STEM-based to start with, and then translate it into something bigger.

 “The possibilities are very exciting,” she said.

“Being able to do it this way speeds up the innovation process,” Andrew said. “If you have an idea, you don’t have to spend money on prototypes. In a makerspace, you can figure out a design that works for free, then you can spend the money where you need to later.”

Donna said that to a UHCL student, the makerspace in the library would look like a space to explore, expand knowledge, collaborate, and find a creative outlet where students might not realize they had one.

“There are no parameters, no box to stay inside,” she said.

They envision the makerspace to be in a collaborative, visible space in the library such as the XR lab or one of the classrooms in which high-tech activity can take place.

“We also envision makerspace ‘pop-ups’ in which for a specific period of time, something will be available in a certain space for students to utilize,” Donna said. “We would place the tools in that space, like sewing machines, 3D printers, or origami projects to start trying it out and get momentum.”

She added that although their approaches were very different in what they could bring to the project, their combined strengths created a well-rounded project.

“We are taking what we’ve learned in our program and applying it here in our library at UHCL,” she said. “We hope that within the next year, students here will benefit from having a makerspace and we believe it will positively impact the future of this space in the library.”

For more information about the Alfred R. Neumann Library, visit www.uhcl.edu/library/.

Joining the Hawk Leadership Institute was one of the best things Marian Lai did when she enrolled after transferring to University of Houston-Clear Lake with her associate degree from Robert Turner College and Career High School in Pearland. The skills she learned in HLI improved her confidence and taught her to embrace her abilities. She’s keeping those in mind as she moves forward with her final assignment as a student at UH-Clear Lake--delivering the commencement speech to the spring Class of 2023.

“When I was told I would be the speaker for commencement, I felt really proud,” Lai said. “Knowing my GPA wasn’t as high as I wanted it to be, I’m glad the search committee took my overall essay into consideration. It was such a full-circle moment for me, as my best friend and I spoke at our high school graduation, and now we will both be speaking at our college graduation.”

Even though the moment would be nerve-racking, Lai said she was grateful. “It’s a once-in-a-lifetime moment and I’m honored to be able to speak in front of my class,” she said.

Lai said she wasn’t the most self-confident person in high school, and the COVID lockdown was extremely difficult. “I definitely have an artistic side, so I started a cookie business,” she said. “I was just bored and stumbled on the idea to make cookies. I started an Instagram page called Iced by Marian and I got a following. I made over $35,000 from baking and decorating cookies and it helped fund my college tuition.”

When she got to UHCL, her participation in the HLI helped her continue her momentum of building her confidence and developing her leadership skills. “I became a student employee in the Office of Student Involvement and Leadership and a peer mentor in HLI,” she said. “That’s where I learned a lot more about myself, how to be a leader, how to benefit from others, and allow them to learn from me as well. There were also a lot of community service opportunities that were helpful.”

Lai’s next step after graduating with her Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences is to begin a nursing program at Chamberlain University. “Throughout high school, I knew I wanted to work in health care, and I became a registered dental assistant, but it wasn’t for me,” she said. “I found nursing and someday, I’d like to work in a neo-natal intensive care unit as a pediatric nurse.”

Along with her new diploma, Lai says she is taking plenty of confidence with her to her next university. “I came to UHCL to get an education and to build connections, and that’s what I did,” she said. “It was a very good decision to come here. If I had to decide again, I’d do the same.”

UHCL’s spring commencement will be held Saturday, May 13 at NRG Arena, 1 NRG Parkway, Houston. There will be two sessions: the first, for the Colleges of Business and Education, will be at 10 a.m. The second, for the Colleges of Human Sciences and Humanities and Science and Engineering, will be at 2 p.m. For more information, go online. 

NASA’s Chief Science Officer in the Human Health and Performance Directorate Judith Hayes was among 20 practitioners and nationally known experts to present at the Spaceflight Human Optimization and Performance Summit 2023 at University of Houston-Clear Lake last week.

 The summit’s goal was to connect high performance thought leaders in the fields of strength and conditioning, nutrition, psychology, sport science and other related disciplines in a forum to explore all aspects of the physical readiness of astronauts for extended duration space flight.

In her presentation, Hayes gave a historical overview of exercise in space, focusing on the risks to human systems during spaceflight.

“What we do at NASA is target our activities just to solve problems astronauts face,” Hayes said. “They include orthostatic intolerance, muscle loss, bone loss, loss of urinary calcium, and other conditions,” she said. “Some of these changes start even after just a few days in space. And as we get close to Mars, we have a lot of ‘red’ risks—that means we have a lot to do in that area.”

Spaceflight-associated neuro-ocular syndrome, which affects the eye, is part of the scope of her research, as well as psycho-social challenges that arise from extended duration spaceflight like confinement, stress, cognition, and sleep disruption.

The summit also introduced attendees to the logistical constraints of space travel, historical counter exercise measures, and some speculation on the human performance needs of astronauts who could travel to the moon or Mars.

Additional presenters included former astronaut and retired Navy SEAL Chris Cassidy, who keynoted the event, former astronaut and retired Army Colonel Shane Kimbrough, and Lead Sport Scientist at New Balance Barry Spiering.

The event was made possible through a partnership with KBR and UHCL.

Throughout University of Houston-Clear Lake’s nearly 50-year history in Bay Area Houston, it has touted its peaceful, scenic location on 524 acres of green space.  Horsepen Bayou runs through campus, marking beautiful spots like the Pat and Wendell Wilson Park and Serenity Garden, where people can sit on shaded benches along the water and enjoy the wildlife that roams freely among the trees, foliage, across the roads and often into the parking lots.

Jasmine Thompson, who is pursuing her Master of Science in Environmental Science, works at the Environmental Institute of Houston and is completing a  survey to get more information about the wildlife with whom UH-Clear Lake faculty, students and visitors daily coexist. 

“I have 11 motion-sensored game cameras out on the nature trail, and whenever the camera senses something moving, it takes a burst of three photos,” she said. “The wildlife survey I’m doing goes hand-in-hand with other surveys that are being completed on the restoration site on the nature trail.”

She said parts of the site are being restored to post-oak savannah, instead of having an overgrown woodland full of invasive and aggressive growing plants.

“There’s more oak trees and more of a mixture of woodland and prairie, which is beneficial because those are the native species that used to be there before the land was used for other reasons. Some animals thrive in that environment naturally, as well as plants,” she said.

Anyone who’s been on campus, especially in the early morning or toward the late afternoon, has seen deer out and about, feeding on grasses and leaves, and occasionally even fighting.

“I’ve got photos of lots of deer, but also armadillos, rabbits, bobcats, coyotes, racoons, possums, squirrels and more recently, wild hogs,” she said. “I’ve seen three hogs, and they are concerning. They are destructive and aggressive, and you can tell the destruction they’re causing at the restoration site because the other animals are around less because of them.”

Hogs use their snouts to dig and make big holes, she explained. “Grass and plants won’t grow there, and you can see spots on the restoration site where nothing is growing because of them. Armadillos dig for their food too, and the hogs are taking away resources from them.”

She did not expect to see the hogs, and didn’t know where they’d come from. “It’s not good for them to be there, and we’re looking for ways to remove them properly, with the right plans and permissions,” she said. “One of the most surprising photos I saw was a coyote just watching an armadillo. He just left it to dig around. He just watched him. They didn’t seem to mind each other.”

There are bobcats around campus, but Thompson said the camera has only picked up one at a time. Of the 11 that are part of the survey, the camera that seems to get the most activity, she added, is between the restoration site and the nature trail, because it’s a good area for finding food.

“They’re always more active at night,” she said. “The coyotes are also usually by themselves, except when they’re mating.” There are also plenty of insects, snakes, as well as alligators and turtles along the bayou. “They don’t get on camera much, but they’re out there,” she said.

Thompson, who also received her Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science from UHCL in 2022, said doing the survey was helping her gain the experience she needed to begin a career in conservation or restoration.

“Doing the survey helps me see the biodiversity of the area,” she said. “Now the hogs are there, it’s giving me the experience of seeing how an invasive species can affect the species that live there.” She said the presence of the wildlife adds to the beauty of the UHCL campus.

 “We can definitely brag about our wildlife here at UHCL,” she said. “It’s not common to go to school and see animals where they live.”

 To learn more about UHCL's history as a wildlife preserve, go online. 

Ten years ago, Lucy Nwosu came from Nigeria to Houston with her family. She already had a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, but her ultimate goal was to achieve a doctorate, so she started research universities in the area to begin her journey.

“In order to get my doctorate, I had to get my master’s degree first,” Nwosu said. “I was researching other universities and applied somewhere else at first, but while I was waiting for admission there, I saw there was a UHCL Day at University of Houston-Clear Lake and I learned that I could apply and possibly receive on-the-spot admission with the application fee waived,” she said. “I was very focused on getting my master’s degree. I met with (Professor of Computer Engineering) Hakduran Koc and he was very helpful. I made my application right there and was admitted. That was it!”

She said she had been shown the coursework for the Master of Science in Computer Engineering and it helped solidify her decision to enroll at UH-Clear Lake. “There were some courses in both hardware and software, as well as emerging technologies like machine learning and robotics, which were the courses that helped me make my decision,” she said. “The courses are structured so that they cover all aspects of computer engineering, which was important to me because I wasn’t yet decided about which aspect I wanted as my specialization. It let me try my hand at different areas and then make my decision.”

Upon beginning her coursework, Nwosu said (Associate Professor and Program Chair of Computer Engineering) Jiang Lu was among her most supportive professors. “I did research with Dr. Koc and Dr. Lu,” she said. “This was extremely helpful in my application to my Ph.D program at Prairie View A&M University. I heard that they were looking for a prospective doctoral student with the kind of research background in machine learning that I had from UHCL.”

Her research was funded by grants secured by Lu, and her research paper, entitled “Deep Convolutional Neural Network for Facial Recognition Using Facial Parts,” won two awards from the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers.

She said her research had been circulated and all she had to do was take it to her interview at PVAMU. “I walked them through the work we did, and again, I was admitted on the spot because of the work I had already done,” she said. “I was able to join the doctoral program and was put on a research team immediately.”

She received her Master of Science in Computer Engineering from UHCL in 2017 will receive her Ph.D. in Electrical and Computer Engineering from PVAMU this summer.

“UHCL definitely gave me the foundation I needed for my doctorate,” she said. “When I came into the program, it was everything I expected it to be. Soon I’ll have my doctorate and I would love to be in research and academia. Dr. Lu is my role model. I would love to mentor more engineers and scientists and complete groundbreaking technology to help the community.”

To learn more about UHCL’s Computer Engineering program, go online. 

NASA’s Artemis program aims to land another man and the first woman on the moon by 2024, and ultimately establish sustainable space travel by 2028. The Artemis program is a stepping stone in NASA’s subsequent goal of landing on Mars, which could take a crewed mission between two and three years to complete.

Such lengthy missions could take a significant toll on the health and performance of the astronauts involved. Finding solutions to that challenge is the central question thought leaders in strength and conditioning, psychology, sport science, nutrition and related fields will explore at the Spaceflight Human Optimization and Performance Summit, to be held at University of Houston-Clear Lake April 27-29.  

Barry Spiering, lead physiologist in the New Balance Sports Research Lab, is among the summit’s expert speakers and will be sharing his insights on maintaining the health and performance of astronauts on lengthy missions.

“Being in space for a long time is like being in bed for a long time,” he said. “When you’re in space for long periods, you could see a loss of bone and muscle mass and a loss of cardiovascular function,” he said. “These and other changes in the body could disrupt health and physical performance. If someone is in space and their physical performance is jeopardized, it could affect the success of the overall mission, as well as the safety and health of the astronaut when they return to Earth.”

In the zero-gravity environment aboard the orbiting International Space Station, bones and muscles, which are built to support the body’s mass, experience loss or atrophy.

“The body is built for gravity; it’s used to dealing with forces,” Spiering said. “Over time, your muscles and bones detect forces, which tell your muscles and bones to get bigger and stronger. But in space, where there’s no gravity, those forces and signals are much less. Without them, your bones and muscles get weaker because there’s fewer forces to tell them to get stronger.”

The cardiovascular system can suffer in space as well. “Gravity pulls blood toward your feet,” explained Spiering. “Your heart adjusts to that and can maintain blood pressure and delivery on Earth. But in zero gravity, there’s nothing to pull the blood to the feet.”

The loss of gravity causes more blood to be around the heart. “Usually there isn’t that much blood around the heart, and it gets rid of plasma volume, which is the water content in the blood. Your body thinks you don’t need it,” he said. “Then, when you get back to earth, your body has trouble regulating its blood pressure. This is called orthostatic intolerance.”

Remedies for these issues are tricky, Spiering said, and although strength training is important, the problem requires more than one solution.

“Strength training is great because it maintains strength and replaces those forces that trigger the muscles and bones to get stronger,” he said. “But NASA scientists show that it’s not 100% effective in space. There are many nutritional questions as well. We aren’t sure if eating more calories helps maintain muscles size and strength. Maybe more protein? Protein helps with muscles, but not necessarily with bone loss. Diet is a huge part of the question we are considering here.”

So, what is the upper limit of an astronaut’s ability to maintain health and performance in space?

“Part of what NASA is doing, and one of the topics of this conference, is to extend how long astronauts can safely be in space,” Spiering said. “If we combine knowledge about exercise, diet, bones, muscles and the heart, we can come up with some powerful information. We want to figure out what we can do maintain astronauts’ health and performance in space for as long as possible.”

Spiering’s presentation, entitled “Training for Human Performance: From Soldiers to Spaceflight,” also draws from his insights working for the Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, helping soldiers reduce injury and improve performance. The presentation takes place Friday, April 28 at 9:40 a.m. To register for the conference, go online. 

 

Someone who is alive today could step on the surface of the planet Mars. While this idea is thrilling, the reduced gravity associated with spaceflight and the cognitive stress of lengthy confinement present significant challenges for human physiology.

The Spaceflight Human Optimization and Performance Summit-2023, to be held at University of Houston-Clear Lake April 27-29, will connect thought leaders in strength and conditioning, sport science, psychology, nutrition and other related disciplines in a forum to address the physical readiness of astronauts for extended-duration spaceflight.

“UH-Clear Lake has always been connected with NASA – we were in fact a university originally built for NASA,” said Associate Professor of Exercise Science and Executive Director for the Health and Human Performance Institute Bill Amonette. “It’s an honor as a university to host an event such as this, introduce our students and community to some fascinating science, and have the opportunity to be contribute to the discussion about strength and conditioning for astronauts in missions to the moon and Mars.”

Amonette said that college students may assume that the only way to have a career in space is by working in science or engineering at NASA or for one of its contractors.

“This is no longer the case,” he said. “Now, with commercial space flight, there are many more opportunities in all scientific and engineering disciplines. We are a university with NASA in our back yard. Discussing these ideas bring more voices to the table, introduces the community to the logistics of a trip to the moon and Mars, and where we are in our general understanding of exercise and how it can prevent catastrophic decrements in performance.”

Corey Twine, astronaut strength and conditioning specialist and SHOP-23 co-director, added that many disciplines encompass optimal performance for spaceflight. “Behavioral psychology is a big part of extended-duration missions,” he said. “Team dynamics, personality, and skills will all play a role in the success of a mission. Astronauts need nutritionists, biologists, chemists, strength and conditioning coaches, athletic and physical trainers as well as mechanical and biomedical engineers who can create the devices and equipment that provides loading to the human and prevents significant loss of bone and muscle mass.”

The summit’s keynote speaker is retired astronaut Capt. Chris Cassidy, whose presentation entitled “Do One More Rep!” explores the habits of effective leaders and how they can motivate their teams to overcome obstacles. Cassidy, a retired Navy SEAL, accumulated 378 days in space and has 54 hours and 51 minutes of spacewalk time, placing him in an elite group of four U.S. crewmembers with 10 spacewalks. He is currently president and CEO of the National Medal of Honor Museum.

Featured speakers include Judith Hayes, Chief Science Officer for NASA, Suzanne Bell, lead of the Behavioral Health and Performance Laboratory at NASA and professor of psychology at DePaul University; Bianca Cerqueira, a human performance research scientist at Lackland AFB within KBR’s Human Performance Research Division; and  Barry Spiering, lead sport scientist for New Balance, and former scientist at NASA and the US Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine (USARIEM).

Topics of discussion include post-flight reconditioning; nutrition as fuel for astronaut performance; wearable technology and remote monitoring; confinement, performance and extended-duration spaceflight; and the future of human performance and spaceflight.

Twenty-two years after the first human beings began living in low Earth orbit on the International Space Station, NASA aims to return to the moon in the near future, but with very different goals, and many additional agencies and partners working together requiring astronauts to be equipped to endure much lengthier stays in space.

“Exercise is critically important to maintain the cardiovascular capacity, and muscle and bone density of astronauts on the moon or in transit missions to Mars,” Amonette said. “Within our lifetime, it’s possible that humans could establish a permanent base on the moon for extended missions. But we have to be prepared to deal with the maladaptations that will come with it—changes in astronauts’ sensorimotor function, coordination, metabolic capacity, and other issues that can impair functional capabilities.”

Twine said the more we learn about exercise and nutrition, the better we will be able to address these problems. “Until now, these were used to maintain function and avoid critical loss so the individual could recover and rehabilitate on Earth," he said.  "With extended-duration missions, maintaining strength, coordination, power and metabolic capacity will be essential to continue living and working on an extraterrestrial surface."

The SHOP Summit-23 is an inaugural event made possible through a partnership between KBR and UHCL. Continuing Education Units through the National Strength and Conditioning, Texas Physical Therapy Association and the Board of Certification for the Athletic Trainers are available for conference attendees.  

The cost of registration includes breakfast and lunch for both days of the summit. To register, go online. 

Helga Schmidt knew that if she wanted to improve her employment options, she had to complete her education. After receiving her associate’s degree from a community college in California, she and her husband and two small children moved to Houston, where she found her opportunity at University of Houston-Clear Lake.

Schmidt, who grew up in Germany and moved to the U.S. in 2014, was adjusting to a new culture and trying to learn English while working on her associate’s in California.

“I first thought I wanted my degree in computer science, but decided that information technology would be a better fit for me,” she said. “My transfer experience to UH-Clear Lake started out with a lot of difficulty, but luckily, I found (Director of Transfer Advising and Student Transitions) Kristi Rickman. She was dedicated to helping me get most of my credits accepted.”

Having taken three years to complete her associate’s, Schmidt said that she was happy for the transfer support she received because she wanted to move forward quickly with her bachelor’s degree.

“I had already taken three years and I did not want to take more time than I needed to finish my degree,” she said. “I didn’t want to have to repeat courses I had taken. I wanted to graduate and start working as soon as possible.”

She said that because she had already done courses in website development in community college, as well as completed an internship as a front-end web developer, she already felt invested in the field of information technology.

“That’s why I decided on an Interdisciplinary Bachelor of Applied Science with Specialization in Information Technology at UHCL,” she said. “I also have a minor in cybersecurity. I am already deep in the field of IT, so this is in the realm of where I feel comfortable.”

Working for two years at Mori Associates, a NASA contractor, while attending UHCL helped with work experience and gaining leadership skills.

“I joined a lot of student orgs and I’m so happy I did that,” she said. “It increased my language ability, and I learned teamwork and time management. These ‘soft skills’ aren’t really taught in class and they are very important. And when I was Senator Representative for the College of Science and Engineering in Student Government, I learned so much and it made me want to further develop myself.”

She said her courses with (Lecturer in Cyber Security) Josh Baker in cyber security were very important, as well as her computer forensics classes. “I also learned a lot in (Senior Lecturer/System Administrator of Computer Science and Computer Information Systems) Krishani Abeysekera’s networking class. That helped me understand networks and how to troubleshoot them,” she said.

Schmidt said UHCL gave her the education she needed and taught her the fundamentals upon on which she will build her career. After graduating in December 2022, she found the job she hoped for as a cyber system security engineer at Lockheed Martin in Fort Worth. “This is the job I wanted, and I think it’s a great start,” she said. “In a few years, I hope I’m a few levels above this position.”

For more information about UHCL’s Bachelor of Applied Science with Specialization in Information Technology, go online. 

Fossil fuels are by far the greatest contributor to global climate change, necessitating investigation of alternative, zero-emission energy sources such as hydrogen. Sehmus Ozden, a senior carbon scientist at Lyten, says clean hydrogen is emerging as a viable way to meet net zero, and that university students in the Houston area should know more about it.

That’s because the U.S. Department of Energy has selected three Texas hydrogen hubs, including two in Houston, to submit applications for funds to develop hydrogen as an alternative to fossil fuel. The Houston Chronicle reports that the likelihood that Houston will host one of the nation’s federally-funded hydrogen hubs is increasing. As many as 10 hubs could be chosen to receive the funding.

Ozden has contributed groundbreaking research in the design and development of novel materials systems for water, energy and environmental sustainability. He will explore the process of producing clean hydrogen in presentation entitled, “Towards a Sustainable Future: Hydrogen Production and Storage” Thursday, April 27 at 12 p.m. in the Bayou Building at University of Houston-Clear Lake.

“Houston is an oil and gas city, and many energy companies are in Houston,” Ozden said. “This makes Houston one of the best candidates for launching the hydrogen hubs. Hydrogen is the future of clean energy, and it’s a rapidly growing, opening field. Students pursuing degrees in related fields should be aware of the employment opportunities that will exist.”

Because hydrogen reduces greenhouse gas emissions, it’s a sustainable fuel source. “This is a great opportunity to learn how hydrogen can contribute to sustainability,” he said. “And in a field that is opening, creative and innovative people will have great opportunities. In Houston, the prediction for the hydrogen market is that it’s expected to grow to $2.2 trillion by 2050. Now is the time to start learning more about it.”

The event is sponsored by UH-Clear Lake’s College of Science and Engineering and the Division of University Advancement. A reception will follow the presentation. To RSVP for the event, go online. 

Kristi Duplichen’s science background and interest in physics started her career at NASA. But while she was there, she realized that scientists and engineers were only part of the reason why astronauts could successfully complete their missions in space.

“When I was an undergraduate at Texas State, I started as a marketing major because I thought it was a good fit for me,” she said. “My parents owned a business and I thought it was a natural fit. But I changed my major to physics and after a while at NASA, I found there was more to how it all worked than just engineering and science. I wanted to learn the business aspect, gain team leadership skills, and learn about finance.”

She decided to enroll at University of Houston-Clear Lake in the Master of Business Administration program, hoping to take the foundational experience she’d had in her family’s business a step further.

“My MBA program at UHCL gave me the growth I was looking for, and it was really convenient for me to continue working and go to school part time,” she said. “I had actually tried a master’s in engineering, but by that time, I didn’t want to pursue that anymore because I still liked business and I knew that even if I changed jobs at NASA, a business degree would help me. My classes were great.”

She received her MBA in 2004 while with United Space Alliance. She left USA and flight control to join NASA in 2006.

“Now my job title is Deputy Manager of the ISS Transportation Integration Office,” she said. “I apply what I learned in my MBA in my current job all the time, especially as we form partnerships with commercial providers like SpaceX, Boeing and other companies to find ways to fulfill our contracts while making sure everyone is successful. We all want to get our crew and cargo safely to ISS and back.”

As a kid, she said she’d wanted to be an astronaut. “But in the meantime, I learned that it’s not just about being an astronaut. It’s about helping them get there, and to do that, we need everyone,” she said. “We need accountants, finance experts, attorneys, medical teams, and marketing. It takes them all to make it work and it opened my eyes that it’s a whole team, not just the mission’s crew. There’s a whole support system and I enjoy being part of that.”

She said her MBA coursework helped her acquire a more holistic view of how NASA was run, apart from the science aspects.

“I got the leadership tools and as I grew in my other roles it made me realize the engineering part wasn’t all there was to make the missions successful,” she said. “There’s a business aspect as well. The MBA helped me expand my toolbox and I was able to move up into leadership. Leading a team is what called to me and having a business degree helped me so much, even in this science environment.”

 “This confirmed to me that I do like leadership, this is what I want to do, and I like working on a team,” she said. “I’ve continued taking more leadership classes since I got my MBA and it confirms to me this is an area I want to keep pursuing.”

For anyone considering returning to college for an MBA, Duplichen said she tells her own children that the work is difficult and going to school at night is a challenge. “But if you study something you are interested in, the hard work doesn’t seem as hard,” she said. “When opportunities come available, you’re ready. I studied something that I found interesting and then had the skills to take on new challenges.”

For more information about UHCL's Master of Business Administration program, go online. 

Members of the Texas House of Representatives and the Texas Senate were at the Texas State Capitol on March 7 to adopt a resolution declaring it University of Houston-Clear Lake Day. Over 40 administrators, faculty, staff, alumni and students journeyed to Austin last week to meet with state legislators throughout UH-Clear Lake’s Day at the Capitol to ensure the university’s financial initiatives remain at the top of their priorities during the new legislative session.

“Our goal in making this trip is two-fold,” said UHCL’s Vice President for Administration and Finance Mark Denney. “First, it’s our opportunity to express our appreciation to our legislators, but also to help directly connect them to what their support means to our students. It also gives us the chance to explain and expand on our funding requests.”

 Denney said it was significant that for students to be present and tell their personal stories.  “Legislators get to hear firsthand how higher education supported by taxpayers in Texas is transformational in students’ lives,” he said. “That’s why we take so many students—we want legislators to hear what  our students have to say.”

The university has five specific funding requests for legislators’ consideration, including two special funding requests.

“Our first goal is to receive support for higher education through the funding formula,” Denney said. “The funding formula is the allocation method the state uses to fund individual universities. This determines how much each campus gets, based on data and information provided by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board.”

The formula, he explained, is essentially the “pie” from which UHCL gets a certain slice. “Our message to legislators is, if they support our students, then we would like them to increase the size of the pie,” he said. “The current pie is smaller than it was in 2010-11. We’re now asking for them to restore it to at least the level that it was more than a decade ago. As the state’s funding of higher education has declined, students have had to make up the difference, which is the predominant reason for the rising cost of tuition.”

Next, Denney said UHCL was requesting financial aid for students through more funding to Texas Grants.

“This is a state-funded program and students can access the funds if they qualify, no matter where they choose to attend,” he said. “Many of our students receive this funding because UHCL has a higher population of low-income students than many other campuses. That’s why increasing this funding would impact many of our students who would otherwise not be at a university.”

Third on the priority list is expansion funding, which is a request simply to move the funds UHCL received to build infrastructure during the university’s downward expansion in 2014 to another account.

“While we were going through downward expansion, the state recognized our need to build additional infrastructure to support incoming students, but past legislative action has begun removing that support,” he said. “Our position is that we are recruiting new and first-time students to UHCL, but we have not yet gotten to the place where we can replace that funding.”

Denney explained that a fund called Institutional Enhancement would be a more appropriate place for the funds to be moved. “Funding that still supports our downward expansion, but moves it to Institutional Enhancement allows the university to retain that funding while we continue to grow that first-time-in-college population,” he explained.

Last on the list is comprehensive regional university funding, which is the state’s first venture into performance-based funding.

 “This program was created at the last legislative session, but it was not permanently funded. We are now asking the legislature to permanently fund this,” Denney said. “Performance-based funding means funds would be available to be used to the university’s best advantage, but we have to deliver graduation results at a certain level to the state in order to continue receiving the funding. Our graduation numbers of low-income students would need to be higher.”

Denney said the key is, the university wants students to enroll and graduate. “These funds would help us create more resources for our students to support them as they move toward graduation.”

The university has two special funding requests. The first is to fund the Campus Construction Assistance Program (CCAP) for a STEM II building, and a renovation of the Delta building. The second is to increase funding for the Center for Autism and Developmental Disabilities to $1 million per year.

“What’s most important with the STEM II request is that over 50% of our incoming students are declared STEM majors, but over 50% of our labs for STEM courses are about 50 years old,” Denney said. “Students come to UHCL having seen more up-to-date labs in their high schools or community colleges than here. Our new STEM building has labs that are state-of-the-art, but that accounts for the other 50%. Our STEM programs, including computer science and engineering, are among our fastest-growing programs.”

Currently, CADD receives $400,000 in state funding per  biennium. “It’s one of our most successful initiatives in terms of community impact, but CADD has a waiting list of about three years of families who need services,” he said. “The additional funds would help eliminate the waiting list.”

Denney believes Texas’s strong public university system is among its greatest assets and funding them should remain a top legislative priority.

 “There’s been a shift in sentiment about the value of a higher education degree as a public benefit. It’s now seen as more a personal benefit,” Denney said. “The fact is, our Texas economy significantly benefits through a more educated workforce, but because of that shift in sentiment, there’s been less funding for higher education, causing tuition rates to increase substantially, making an education unobtainable for many students.”

 Although those individuals do benefit from attaining an education, Denney said all Texans are better off with a strong economy. “An educated workforce drives a strong economy, and we greatly appreciate this opportunity to support our students as they help bring that message to our legislators.”

For more information about UHCL's financial aid programs, go online. 

Shafer’s discussion, entitled “Giant Leaps Start Here,” focused on the attributes of great leaders, the importance of remaining open to learning lessons along the way, and that becoming a team player was among the most critical keys to success. 

“Great leaders are team builders, collaborators and servant leaders,” she said. “As a leader, you empower your team, trust them to meet your expectations, praise them in public and share in their success.”

Discussion moderator and NASA Alumni League President Estella Gillette said that UH-Clear Lake was a great forum, not only for providing the skills for chosen academic disciplines, but also by providing practice opportunities.

“When we become involved in activities other than the required courses, there are opportunities to network with and learn from other students, faculty, and staff, who can also become mentors and role models,” she said. “We learn to be members of teams and to collaborate, skills that are essential in the workplace.”

Gillette, a UHCL double alumna, added that alumni who have had the benefit of UHCL’s “basic” training in skills other than their chosen disciplines could continue as role models and mentors to women currently enrolled.

“Younger women have the advantage of having access to us, who are more experienced women,” she said. “Some of us are ‘pioneers’ in the quest for making room for women in all disciplines and in all levels.”

 The event was emceed by Logical Innovations President and CEO Denise Navarro. Other panelists were UHCL College of Education Dean Joan Pedro, Barrios Technology President Kelly Page, East End Chamber of Commerce President Frances Castañeda, and local artist Diane Muniz.

When a professor, advisor or other mentor helps a student navigate college, that student’s chances for success increase greatly. For University of Houston-Clear Lake junior Jose Ramirez, who is in the midst of an internship with Boeing at NASA Johnson Space Center, the guidance he’s received from his professors and others at UH-Clear Lake have shown him that it’s true—the sky truly is the limit.

In September 2022, UHCL and Boeing signed an agreement enabling Boeing to offer engineering students entry-level employment experience and internships that support multiple projects that support the International Space Station, the CST-100 Starline Commercial Crew Program and the Space Launch System.

Ramirez said that he transferred to UHCL from Alvin Community College and had been certified as an emergency medical technician.

“I started out wanting to be pre-med, but I had friends who were going into engineering and following NASA-related events. They were excited about it and I asked them what engineering was like,” he said. “They talked about aerospace engineering and the mechanical engineering program at UHCL, and that’s how I decided to become a mechanical engineering major.”

 While at UHCL, Ramirez found the Pathways to STEM Careers grant program, which enables Hispanic students to successfully transfer from two-year programs to four-year institutions in STEM fields of study. The grant includes provisions for paid opportunities for students to conduct scientific research and gain on-the-job experience through internships.

“If it had not been for Pathways to STEM, I would not have had a research assistantship with (Assistant Professor of Mechanical Engineering) Kazi Md Masum Billah,” he said. “Pathways to STEM sent me notifications and encouraged me to go to STEM-related events. If it had not been for them, I would not have been as engaged and I wouldn’t have worked with Dr. Billah, who is the one who told me to apply for the Boeing internship.”

Ramirez said sought further guidance from Internship Programs Coordinator in Strategic Partnerships Bernadina Streeter.

“I worked with Strategic Partnerships and we got the application done,” he said. “They set up the interview for me, and they were the mediator between UHCL and Boeing. They helped me to practice for the interview process. Without their help, my internship outcome might have been very different. I was able to practice and learn how to narrow in on the interview questions.”

He said he had been nervous about the application, partly because he did not understand the scope of Boeing’s work.

“I knew Boeing worked with airplanes, but I didn’t know everything about what they did with NASA and ISS,” he said. “When I was preparing, I saw they did a lot of virtual reality on ISS, which  really interested me. I’d like to be involved with developing new technologies. I want to be around that as much as I can and incorporate that into possible future designs.”

He said that although the interview process wasn’t easy, he knew that receiving the internship would change his future.

“For anyone else who’s nervous about applying to NASA as I was, I would say don’t be afraid of how the future could end up,” he said. “Don’t be caught up in assumptions or ‘what ifs.’ If you’re unsure about something, just go ahead and do it. Focus on what you want right now and take the jump.”

At Boeing, Ramirez says he’s working with a team to help develop tools to train astronauts for the ISS.

“I’m doing a lot of designing and training to push into incorporating the new technology that relates to VR into the design,” he said. “This experience will really add to my resume when I graduate. I will be more effective at working with experienced engineers, and I will know the expectations of a company, designing and working on a team project.”

He added that he felt he was definitely in the right place. “I love going to work, I’m already thinking about what I’m going to do. In my environment, I’m learning things not just for the sake of it, but to learn and create new and better things. That’s why I’m excited to go to work every day.”

For more information about Pathways to STEM Careers or the Office of Strategic Partnerships, go online.

University of Houston-Clear Lake students interested in pursuing a career as a teacher in a STEM-related field can access financial support through the Hawkins-STEM4All grant. The grant, which is embedded in the UHCLTeach program, offers students working toward a math or biology 7-12 certification the opportunity to add an English as a Second Language certification.

Lecturer in Secondary Science and Math Education and UHCLTeach Master Teacher Takisha Bolden Gastile said the STEM4All program will support pre-service, in-service and other educators seeking professional development in STEM literacy and inclusion in multilingual education.

“We’ve received $1.6 million, to be disbursed over four years, to recruit, retain and foster 30 pre-service STEM teachers in multi-lingual education,” Bolden Gastile said. “Our students can receive need-based scholarships for up to two years. One of our goals is to recruit male and minority future teachers to come into the program.”

UHCLTeach is partnering with the Children's Environmental Literacy Foundation to help students incorporate civic science into lesson plans. “Students will have the chance to attend a summer institute, ending in a summit in which they may showcase their lessons and ideas,” she said. “They will also have the opportunity to attend teaching institutes focusing on cultural responsiveness, Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and help prepare them for the ESL certification.”

She said that once students graduate, they can return to UHCL and serve as mentors. “They can give back to the students still in the program, and offer them support as well,” she said. “These would be paid mentorships coming from our alumni; the grant provides funds for this as well.”

UHCLTeach is a secondary math/science certification through the College of Education. Through the program, students who might be considering a major in education can teach in a classroom much earlier in their degree program, instead of toward the end of their coursework. Students take two courses, and if they earn a grade of C or higher, they will be reimbursed for the tuition, whether they choose to continue in education or not.

She said UHCLTeach partners with nearly all independent school districts in the area.

Funding through the HawkinsSTEM4ALL can be accessed now and is available for any student in the UHCLTeach program.

For information about applying for the HawksinsSTEM4ALL scholarship, contact Dr. Bolden Gastile at gastile@uhcl.edu. To learn more about UHCLTeach, go online. 

Eric Washington said that if he could go back and tell his high school self what he’s doing now, he’d never have believed it. 

“Before coming to University of Houston-Clear Lake, I had no idea I could ever work at NASA with astronauts. I would never have imagined I’d be doing this,” he said.

Washington, who is pursuing his Bachelor of Science in Computer Science at UH-Clear Lake, reflected on his journey to landing an internship with Boeing, secured through an agreement signed in September 2022 enabling Boeing to offer engineering students entry-level engineering internships that support multiple projects.

After beginning his academic career at University of Texas at San Antonio, Washington quickly realized it wasn’t a good fit for him.

 “I came to UHCL after one semester at UTSA because I thought the degree program was better and much more affordable at UHCL,” he said. “One of the most important things that happened to me when I came to UHCL is getting involved with Pathways to STEM Careers. They really supported me as a first-generation student. I came with the goal of getting involved in everything I could and just getting an internship—I didn’t care where.”

He said (Program Director for Pathways to STEM Careers) Andrea Alvarado had consistently kept him informed about opportunities like research assistantships.

“People should know the importance of getting involved with Pathways,” he said. “They are out there to help propel students upward. If you’re a minority or receiving a Pell grant, Pathways is an organization that will open doors for you, but they have high standards for staying in. You have to maintain a GPA of 3.0, but that just reinforces that if you keep studying, you’ll have a job and go to school—you can’t lapse; you have to put in the effort.”

Through Pathways, Washington received a technical assistantship, and from there, he received a research assistantship with (Associate Professor of Software Engineering) Soma Datta.

“I took a project management lead role in helping her create a virtual biology lab,” he said. “From Dr. Datta, I learned to program using a game engine called Unity. I learned about game design and acquired project management skills. I had a great experience and really enjoyed it.”

But although he was applying for other internships, specifically at NASA, he was rejected from all of them.

“When I joined the National Society of Black Engineers, I met two students who were NASA interns and they told me to apply again,” he said. “I finally got a NASA internship with the University Space Research Association and did flight software development, edited code and created an interface for the workout machine on the Artemis capsule. I had a great experience and met a lot of people. I learned what it was to be a software engineer.”

He learned some programming languages along the way, as well as virtual reality development while at NASA.

“That brings me to this Boeing internship,” he said. “I did not actually apply for it. I left my resume with (Strategic Partnerships Internships Coordinator) Bernadina Streeter. She is the one who called me and said my experience with VR development, game engines, and Unity was appealing to Boeing. They called me.”

After practicing his skills with Streeter, Washington interviewed with Boeing and landed the internship.

“At Boeing, I’m creating a VR tool that allows engineers to demonstrate usage of the Pistol Grip Tool, which drives bolts on the International Space Station,” he said. “We are creating a VR mockup to help us see if a tool fits in certain areas. We’re using VR to find out if astronauts can manipulate the tool to bolt things down. If we can go in VR and do it, then we don’t have to use more expensive resources.”

He said he remembers his thoughts about what his career path might be back in his high school days.

“I thought I’d get a job in some software company and work at a desk,” he said. “But after listening to the speakers I have heard while at UHCL, and getting the first NASA internship, I knew I would like to stay in aerospace. Now that I’m at Boeing, I get to go to work and say the software I’m working on is cutting edge. I’d like to retire someday from a career related to space.”

Washington advises others in his position not to worry about making mistakes.

“That’s what makes you human,” he said. “But learning from them is what propels you to better positions. Never think there is just one way to do things. Don’t limit yourself to a box. Remove the box! You can do anything you set out to do, it just takes time.”

He said his internship at Boeing reaffirmed his desire to stay on this path.

 “I go to work and I’m really happy with what I’m doing,” he said. “This internship will make my ultimate career goal happen for me; UHCL is right across the street from NASA. This university has given me so many opportunities, and that’s why I’m trying to do a good job for UHCL and Boeing.”

 For more information about  Pathways to STEM Careers, or Strategic Partnerships, go online. 

The U.S. Department of Education reports that about 80% of college students change their major at least once. That’s why University of Houston-Clear Lake students can consider joining UHCLTeach even if they’re not necessarily planning to be a teacher. The program, which allows science and math majors to pursue a teaching certification along with their STEM degree, opens the door to many more opportunities.

Gloria Pulido, former vice president of the UHCLTeach’s student organization, Future Educators in STEM, graduated in December with her Bachelor of Arts in Mathematical Sciences with a 7-12 Certification. She is the first student involved in the UHCLTeach program to graduate and begin a career in education.

“The organization’s focus is professional development opportunities,” Pulido said. “You find support, not just from your peers, but from other resources and from networking and finding opportunities to aid or substitute teach.”

Pulido, who was hired after graduating by Galena Park Independent School District to teach geometry at North Shore Senior High School - 10^th Grade Center, said she believed her experience with UHCLTeach helped her become a more attractive candidate.

“My experience made me a better critical thinker, and I learned more about project-based instruction and how to create a more interactive student setting,” she said.

She added that the UHCLTeach program supports teachers all the way through to graduation with scholarship opportunities and financial support. But most importantly, she said her professors in the Colleges of Education and Science and Engineering gave her the motivation to succeed.

“The faculty are so knowledgeable, and they have shown me, especially through UHCLTeach, that I have the potential to be where they are someday,” she said. “They are always willing to support students and help them find resources. This is what I’ve taken away from my time at UHCL and being involved with UHCLTeach-- staying motivated and pursuing opportunities.”

She said her caring professors, including UHCLTeach Master Teacher, Lecturer in Secondary Science and Math Takisha Bolden-Gastile, showed her what she’d like to do someday.

“Dr. Bolden-Gastile took me as a research assistant and I presented research at the UTeach conference in Austin,” she said. “I’m now coming back to UHCL to pursue my master’s degree in math education, and I’d like to go for my doctorate and become a professor as well. I believe my new position as a math teacher will start me in that direction.”

Whether students graduate and go into education or industry, UHCLTeach helps students identify others’ learning styles and become a more effective communicator. Graduates from the program can become more attractive medical school applicants, and even for those who don’t intend to teach, learning to communicate science and math concepts to others is a coveted skill throughout industry.

For more information about UHCLTeach, go online. 

Data science is a multidisciplinary field that integrates math, computer science and statistics with business insights and trends. Because of its broad scope and application across almost all industries, data scientists are a new kind of data analytical expert, in line for some of the most sought-after roles  in the job market.

“Data science is a very attractive job option because the salary is excellent, the demand is high, and job satisfaction is good,” said Professor of Computer Science and Chair of the Data Science program Bun Yue at University of Houston-Clear Lake. “Data science can be applied to nearly all domains, especially business analytics, which uses data to make better business models, decisions and transactions. This is probably the largest domain area of data science now.”

Yue explained that UH-Clear Lake’s Master of Science in Data Science program, available since fall 2021, offered specializations in bioinformatics, business analytics and big data cloud solutions.

“The specialization in business analytics uses the data to help businesses make better business models, decisions and transactions,” he said. “That’s probably the largest domain area of data science. The specialization in bioinformatics uses data to model and analyze biological and healthcare applications.”

Suhail Arfaath, whose December 2022 graduation made him the very first student to graduate from the Master of Science in Data Science program at UHCL, said he had specialized in cloud computing and big data.

“I came to UHCL from India having searched for universities with this coursework and found very few that had this degree,” he said. “The additional specialization adds value to the degree. All of this put together is a very good preparation. For employers, it means I am a better candidate.”

Arfaath came to the U.S. in August 2021 after having worked as a software engineer for four years. “I gained experience in India, and I thought a master’s in data science would be a natural pathway for me to progress in the fields of data science and artificial intelligence,” he said. “While I was at UHCL, I found many supportive professors, including (Associate Professor of Computer Science) Gary Boetticher, for whom I was a teaching assistant, and Dr. Yue, who provided mentorship and guidance, as well as taught me about the job market, approaching people, and my resume.”

 Currently in search of a job, Arfaath said he has been interviewing and his top choices were Facebook, Amazon, Google or Microsoft.

Through ‘storytelling’ skills, data scientists can help build significant context and explain their insights, using a narrative to make the dataset and analytics more accessible.

“There are so many applications for my degree,” he said. “In areas like the finance, e-commerce, insurance, technology, manufacturing, robotics or medicine, data science is booming. Transport logistics, information technology, food distribution are all areas which need data scientists. Before, we didn’t have the systems to process huge data, but now we have huge computational systems to support large scale data processing and modelling.”

Even the mundane, daily details of life, like deciding how to dress for the day, are impacted by data science. “We can see the weather report every day and for 10 days from now. All these predictions are nothing but data science implementation, where information is gathered and analyzed to predict the future,” he said.

Yue said that given any domain, it’s not difficult to find applications for data sciences. “Our students are expected to be able to get into a domain and see how data science might help,” he said. “Domain expertise is one of the focuses of our program. We now have students with undergraduate degrees in business, engineering, education, criminology, accounting, and more.”

For more information about UHCL’s Master of Science in Data Science program, go online. 

University of Houston-Clear Lake’s Assistant Professor of STEM Education Carol Waters has received the 2023 Basu Fellowship from the National Association of Research in Science Teaching (NARST).

NARST, a global organization for improving science education through research, will host an international science educators’ conference in April in Chicago. Waters will work with the Equity and Ethics committee as well as give two presentations.

In her statement for application for the fellowship, Waters said that as a female from a struggling, single-income background, she had learned to become mindful of students’ needs to be heard, validated and encouraged.

“In the world in which I grew up, math and science fields were all dominated by white males," Waters said.  "I was in a family of eight, growing up in a low socio-economic background, not realizing we did not have access to the same resources as others. My goal ultimately is to create a network for girls in STEM, and have the perseverance to be successful, no matter their background.”

Waters teaches students in the College of Education who are pursuing undergraduate, graduate and doctoral degrees. She said she knew many of her students on all levels at UH-Clear Lake also faced many challenges in completing their education. “We all have experiences; it’s about looking at diverse backgrounds and not just ethnicity,” she said.

She said that as one of the fellows, the Equality and Ethics committee would be working to develop them to become better, stronger researchers and leaders in the community.

“I’ll be learning from others around the nation and the world about their struggles and challenges, which will help me learn more about diverse populations,” she said. “How can I better relate to them? We also have students from around the world and the nation, and we might not all be exposed to the same challenges. I think this experience will open my eyes to a whole new world, to things I didn’t think about.”

Waters will be also presenting at the conference; her research studies focus on female perceptions of STEM in higher education, and environmental education and climate change.

For more information about UHCL's College of Education, go online. 

Every year, about a million people come to the United States to seek opportunities for a better life. Most come from just south of the Texas border, but Ichha Manandhar’s journey began 8,300 miles away, on the other side of the world in Nepal. Arriving in Houston at the age of 6, she said she had found the path to the education she hoped for at University of Houston-Clear Lake.

“I graduated from Clear Horizons Early College High School in Clear Creek Independent School District with my associate’s degree and high school diploma, and most of my credits transferred to UH-Clear Lake, which is a main reason why I chose this university,” she said. “I’m receiving my Bachelor of Science in Computer Science with a minor in cybersecurity this December, and I’ll also be leading the Pledge of Allegiance and Invocation at the commencement ceremony.”

She said computer science was always her interest, and she viewed technology as a tool that could help people. “That’s why I’m interested in computer science,” she said. “I want to use technology to help people in Nepal. With the rise of artificial intelligence and robotics, I see it as a way to make life better for people, and that’s what I want to do.”

While at UHCL, Manandhar said she was technology director and senator of College of Science and Engineering for the Student Government and president of  SUPERGirls SHINE Foundation club at UHCL, a chapter of the nonprofit organization focusing on empowering young women of color to pursue an education and a career in STEM-related fields.

“I chose to be active because I wanted to increase my leadership skills and my teamwork skills, and all the extra work I did was worth it,” she said. “I feel that everyone at UHCL was welcoming to me and adaptive. I love our diverse community and events that focus on diversity, the cultural days, and the international flags that fly in the Bayou Building.”

Her NASA internship, in which she worked in software development in support of the International Space Station, will end when she graduates.

“That internship and my work in the student organizations has really helped me in my job search and opened doors of opportunity for me,” she said. “I have some options now that I have graduated, but I hope to work in software engineering in a tech company. My ultimate goal in life is to start my own tech business and produce or develop something that helps others. I would love for that company to be located in the U.S. and Nepal so I can provide jobs there that are so needed.”

For more information about UHCL’s Computer Science program, go online. 

Monica Trevathan started her career as a math teacher in another state, but computers were always her main area of interest. There was no teaching certification possible for computer teachers in her home state, but when she moved to Houston and found University of Houston-Clear Lake, her options widened and allowed her career path to become more aligned with her desire to work with computer systems.

“Not only did I find the teaching certification in computer technology that I wanted at UH-Clear Lake, but there was also a Master of Science in Instructional Design and Technology in the College of Education, so I was able to combine education and my computer background,” she said. “I finished the teaching certification and continued with my master’s degree.”

She received her master’s in 2000 and taught math for a few years, but was drawn to the instructional technology side of education. “I ended up as an instructional designer at Boeing,” she said.

“We really need good teachers, but I found out there are a lot of other options out there,” she explained. “My master’s degree really helped. There are a lot of companies out there who are looking for educators who have been in the classroom, but can apply those skills to the corporate environment. It was a big bonus on my application that I had a teaching certificate; that certainly made me more attractive to employers.”

She discovered that teaching in a corporate setting is similar to teaching in a classroom. “It doesn’t matter where you are, everyone you’re teaching has a different learning style,” she said. “I was teaching people how to use a tool, and it was helpful for me to understand that the adults were different kinds of learners, just as the kids in the classroom were.”

After her three-year contract with Boeing ended, she received a contract with the Transportation Security Administration to help train airport employees checking in baggage after security concerns became a top priority after September 11.

“My job was to audit their training and ensure the subcontractors were doing everything correctly,” she said. “After that contract wound down, I was back in the Clear Lake area, trying to figure out what to do next. I found a small business called Tietronix Software which had received a NASA contract that supported a space education and life sciences group, and that’s where I returned to my passion for STEM education.”

Trevathan said this was the best job she could imagine.  “This is what I wanted to do—support education outreach for space life sciences with a K-12 focus. I had that role for 13 years and it was amazing. I worked with engineers and subject matter experts creating educational materials and the big bonus for me was that I had that master’s degree from UHCL,” she said. “We developed the educational materials for the classroom based on NASA content, and then went out and trained the teachers to use the content.”

She got more than a great job there. Tietronix is also where she began partnering with (Professor of Literacy, Library Science and Learning Technology) Jana Willis, writing grants to get education-based products funded.

“I was getting very heavily into doing research for those grants that showed that technology actually works to engage students,” Trevathan said. “We designed our studies to have research results. And I said, it sounds like I’m getting a doctorate! It wasn’t hard for Dr. Willis to convince me to get enrolled into the doctoral program.”

UHCL’s Doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction with Focus in STEM was brand new at that time, and Trevathan became part of its first cohort. “It felt attainable to get that doctorate, because of the research I was already doing,” she said. “It was just a matter of getting it structured. I said, I think I can do it—I’m already doing it!”

She added that while working on her doctorate, she also got certified as a program evaluator—a helpful enhancement to her degree. “People funding grants want to know that an external evaluator has completed an evaluation to determine that the dollars are being spent well,” she said.

She crossed the stage with her doctorate in 2018, just as her contract with Tietronix was closing. By the time she graduated, she had a lot of good contacts and decided to start her own consulting company.  “It’s called Curriculum and Instruction Services, located in Dickinson,” she said. “I got my whole foundation from UHCL. I have a doctorate in education, but I don’t work in a school or a classroom. But, I work with people who are, and with STEM-focused nonprofits.”

She’s found that a doctorate in education is not necessarily just for educators. “You can be very helpful on the state or federal level,” she said.

“If you’ve been in the classroom, it’s useful for working with school If you have new products, teachers ask how we know what they need. And the answer is, we know because we’ve been there,” she said. “Research in education is needed, but you have to find the funding for it, and that’s when you partner with others that are looking for those products.”

 For more information about UHCL’s Education Doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction, go online.