Student Profile – Shinika Balasundar
For Shinika Balasundar, engineering is about transforming abstract ideas into real-world systems that make a difference. Now in her final semester at San José State University (SJSU), she is completing her B.S. in Computer Engineering while also balancing her passions for music production, reading, and spending time with family and friends outside the classroom.
Born in India and raised in the Bay Area, Shinika grew up surrounded by technology and innovation. She credits her passion for engineering to a middle school workshop, where she worked on mechanical and electrical projects, including a torque-powered aircraft and computer aided design fabricated with 3D printing. She claims her “ … hands-on experience revealed how abstract ideas could be translated into functional systems and set me on the path toward engineering.”
Shinika has put her skills to the test with an internship at Rivian, an electrical vehicle manufacturer. As an embedded software engineering intern, she worked on platform development, firmware, and custom frameworks for proprietary vehicle hardware. This role required precision and adaptability, strengthening her foundation for embedded systems. This experience “ … confirmed my career focus in embedded software engineering.”
What stood out most to Shinika about Rivian was the collaborative and knowledge-driven culture. “As an intern, I had access to engineers who were not only experts in their fields but also willing to mentor and explain complex systems.” That environment reinforced her belief in teamwork as essential to solving large-scale engineering challenges.
Looking forward, Shinika sees herself as an embedded software engineer contributing to next-generation vehicle systems. In five years, she hopes to be working on scalable, safety-critical platforms that advance autonomy, electrification, and sustainability. Her long-term goal is to help develop embedded platforms that make electric and autonomous vehicles safer, more efficient and more widely accessible, while also advancing sustainability and technology adoption.
NASA on Campus Event Recap
Earlier this August, the 36th annual Thermal and Fluids Analysis Workshop (TFAWS) took place at San José State University (SJSU). NASA Ames Research Center in partnership with the College of Engineering at SJSU brought together experts from NASA and the aerospace industry to share knowledge, build professional connections, and promote collaboration across thermal and fluids engineering disciplines. TFAWS plays a key role in advancing innovation and continuity within this specialized engineering community.
Organizers, aerospace engineering students and other attendees were asked why this was an important event for them to attend. Here is what they had to say:
For Tanisha Grover, a third-year aerospace engineering major with a minor in aviation working towards her private pilot’s license, the event highlighted how closely the two fields are linked and deepened her excitement for the journey ahead. The presentation on flight simulation really stood out to her because it connected the science with real-world piloting. “I’ve been passionate about space since I was young, and being a woman in a male-dominated field has never intimidated me—it motivates me,” she said. Tanisha has been involved with the Rocket Club at SJSU, because it allows her to connect with others who share her enthusiasm for aerospace and aviation.
Aaron Swagi, originally a civil engineering student from Nigeria, made a bold switch to aerospace for his master’s at San José State University, driven by a childhood passion for rockets and flight. Attending TFAWS, Aaron sought to explore cutting-edge technology and gather fresh ideas for his student project. “I’m excited to see younger innovators bringing new energy and fresh perspectives beyond what established aerospace professionals present,” he said. Aaron’s journey highlights the dynamic future of aerospace, fueled by fresh talent ready to push boundaries.
For Igor Eramov, a master’s student in aerospace engineering, the TFAWS was a chance to take a deep dive into thermal analysis which is a critical field for spaceflight because it ensures that components operate within their designed temperature ranges. “It focused on thermal analysis for aerospace, but also had interdisciplinary sections,” Igor said. “If you’re in the industry, you can present your research, network, and gain valuable exposure.”
Thermal analysis is vital in space travel, especially for missions involving high-speed atmospheric entry. Igor emphasized the need for materials that can withstand extreme heat: “We need to preserve vehicle integrity and protect astronauts. It’s a tough field, but progress in material science has helped optimize heat shields and reduce weight—allowing for more payload,” he added.
Austin Olmos, a fourth year aerospace student, was inspired by a keynote on Titan’s helicopter rover: “Helicopters in space are rare. Seeing the engineering challenges of flying on a moon with a dense atmosphere was eye-opening.”
Mikayla Ehresmann-Singh, a graduate aerospace engineering student at SJSU, came to the event to do a 90 second presentation of a CubeSat project along with her teammate, Matteen Tabrizi, also a graduate student at SJSU. CubeSats are small, affordable satellites used for everything from weather tracking to scientific research. “The workshop ties directly into my passion for thermal systems and CFD design,” Mikayla commented. She and Matteen share similar interests and saw the event as a great chance to connect with the industry.
NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center employees Jack Parr, Heather Grimes, Mackenzie Byrnes and Faiyaj Khan came all the way from Alabama to attend the event. Jack Parr emphasized the value of deep dives into mission-critical design considerations and technologies like heat pipes and thermal desktop software.
Despite the field’s male-dominated history, the growing presence of women in the discipline is helping foster a more inclusive, supportive environment. Heather Grimes highlighted the importance of presenting her own research and pushing beyond her comfort zone. For Mackenzie Fines, the real impact came from finally meeting longtime collaborators in person—turning virtual connections into a real community.
Faiyaj said, “it’s not just about learning the latest tools—it’s about building a network of passionate, collaborative engineers working toward common goals.”
If you’re into thermal systems, fluid dynamics, or just really like heat pipes, the 2026 TFAWS will take place at the Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama.
Banafa – Tensor Launches First Personal Robocar
Tensor, a San José based company, has unveiled the world’s first personal robocar, built entirely for autonomy and equipped with more than 100 sensors including cameras, radars, and microphones. The vehicle can be driven manually or left to navigate on its own in areas like city centers and shuttle routes. Expected to carry a high price tag, the robocar will be available for purchase by consumers in 2026, highlighting Silicon Valley’s continued leadership in innovation.
Attention Students: Campus E-Vehicle Policy at SJSU
Electric scooters, skateboards, and bikes are welcome for commuting, but keep in mind that SJSU is a dismount zone. Park them at designated drop-off zones or bike enclosures. Bringing them inside academic buildings is prohibited due to fire code regulations. Ride to campus, then walk. Remember that safety and compliance come first! To review the full policy please visit the Electric and Shared Mobility Services webpage.