Student Profile – Jessica Wight
Jessica Wight is a third-year student at San José State University (SJSU) majoring in Engineering Technology with a concentration in Computer Network System Management. Outside of school, she enjoys riding dirt bikes, working on cars, hiking, fishing, and exploring new places. Her love for hands-on activities connects closely with her passion for engineering and problem-solving.
Originally from Colorado and raised in San Jose, Jessica is proud to be the first in her family to pursue an engineering degree. She discovered her passion for the field through her father, who helped her see how technology connects people and shapes their lives. “What inspired me most was the idea that through networking, I could help keep people connected to their families, their work, and the things they love most,” she says.
This past year, Jessica interned with CrowdStrike, a cybersecurity technology company that provides cloud-based software to protect against malware and breaches, as part of their IT Service Desk team. She first came across the opportunity on Handshake and applied even though she didn’t meet all the qualifications. While she wasn’t placed in her initial choice, she was offered a different position that turned out to be an ideal fit. The experience allowed her to gain real-world technical skills and learn the value of perseverance. “The willingness to try can open unexpected doors,” she explains, reflecting on her growth during the internship.
Jessica was drawn to CrowdStrike not only for its reputation in cybersecurity but also for its involvement with Formula 1, which connected to her lifelong interest in cars and racing. She admired how the company protects organizations across many industries while enabling innovation and performance behind the scenes.
Looking ahead, Jessica hopes to work as a network engineer, helping design systems that keep people connected and secure. She wants to create networks that are reliable, innovative, and meaningful; reminding others that technology is about more than just devices, it’s about connection, opportunity, and possibility.
Prof. Ahmed Banafa – Amazon Unveils AI-Powered Delivery Tech
Amazon recently introduced new AI-powered technology to improve delivery speed and worker safety at its Milpitas Delivery Hub. The company showcased smart glasses that help drivers identify packages and detect hazards, along with two AI systems called Blue Jay and Project Eluna to manage warehouse operations. These tools are designed to make deliveries faster and more efficient through automation. Ahmed Banafa, a professor at SJSU, said that while AI boosts accuracy and efficiency, it could also replace some jobs unless workers learn new skills. Overall, Amazon’s innovations show how artificial intelligence is transforming the future of work and delivery.
Mary G. Ross: Trailblazing Engineer
This November, the SJSU College of Engineering celebrates Native American Heritage Month by honoring Mary G. Ross, the first Native American woman engineer. A member of the Cherokee Nation, Ross broke barriers, when she became the first woman engineer at Lockheed Missiles and Space Company, which is now known as Lockheed Martin, in 1942. She played a key role in aerospace projects, including plans for missions to Mars and Venus, during a time where few women worked in engineering.
Ross grew up surrounded by Cherokee values that encouraged learning and perseverance. She earned degrees in math and aeronautical engineering, choosing to enter a field where she was often the only woman in the room. Her curiosity and determination helped her succeed in a male dominated industry and made her a respected voice in advancing space technology.
After retiring, Ross dedicated her time to mentoring young Native American students and encouraging them to study science and engineering. Her legacy continues to inspire engineers today, reminding us that innovation grows stronger when people from all backgrounds have a chance to contribute.