CoE Software Engineering Ranked in Top 10 Nationwide in CodeSignal’s 2025 Report

San José State University has climbed to No. 9 in CodeSignal’s 2025 national ranking of coding talent, surpassing both Stanford and UC Berkeley. Check out the NBC Bay Area news segment about this amazing milestone!

The ranking, based on a coding assessment widely used by leading tech employers, highlights SJSU’s growing impact in the field. SJSU Engineering Dean Sheryl Ehrman attributes the rise in ranking to driven students, dedicated faculty, and instructors with real-world industry experience. In the Mercury News, Santa Clara County representative Ro Khanna echoed the significance of SJSU’s role in Silicon Valley, calling it a more accessible, equally impactful alternative to elite institutions.

CodeSignal’s rankings focus on demonstrated coding ability, reflecting a shift among employers to prioritize skill over pedigree. More companies are looking beyond résumés to find top talent, regardless of where they studied.

ME Awards Celebration

On Friday, May 9, the SJSU Mechanical Engineering Department hosted its annual Alumni Recognition & Scholarship Awards Night. This special event brought together students, alumni, faculty, and supporters to celebrate the achievements and growth of the department. The evening highlighted the dedication of this year’s scholarship recipients and honored the ongoing impact of our alumni.

A key moment of the night was the presentation of the Alumna of the Year Award to Dr. Monica A. Kapil, Ph.D., recognizing her outstanding professional accomplishments and her continued involvement with the department. Her achievements have been a true inspiration to current and future students. In her remarks, Dr. Kapil offered powerful advice to the next generation of engineers:

• Stay curious, never stop learning
• Lead with purpose, impact, empathy, and don’t forget to lift up others on your way up and give back to your community
• Perseverance: success is built through challenge, not in spite of it

The evening also recognized the impressive accomplishments of our senior design teams. The Senior Project of the Year was awarded to the team behind “FDM-based 3D Printing for Soft Robotics,” who earned first place at the 2025 Senior Design Showcase. Congratulations to Miguel Iniguez Franco, Abhishek Khatri, Eric Jimenez, Jonathan Velasco Figueroa, and Anthony Bolinger for their exceptional work and innovation.

In addition to the award-winning teams, congratulations to the senior design teams for their hard work, creativity, and dedication. Each team’s project demonstrated the talent and commitment that continues to drive the success of the SJSU Mechanical Engineering Department.

May 20th Engineering Events

1932: Amelia Earhart Flies Solo Across the Atlantic

In 1932, Amelia Earhart took off from Newfoundland and became the first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean. Her courageous flight was not only a huge moment in aviation history, but it also showed what was possible for women at the time when many weren’t even able to work outside the home.

1978: Pioneer Venus 1 was Launched by NASA

NASA launched Pioneer Venus 1 in 1978 to study the planet Venus. The spacecraft orbited Venus and sent back data about its thick atmosphere and weather, helping engineers and scientists learn more about space travel and other planets.

1990: Hubble Space Telescope Sends First Images

The Hubble Space Telescope sent back its first images from space. Engineers designed it to take clear pictures of stars and galaxies, and it changed how we understand the universe. This major achievement was made in 1990.

2010: Opportunity Rover Breaks Mars Surface Operation Record

NASA’s Opportunity rover set a new record for the longest continuous operation on the surface of Mars, surpassing the Viking 1 Lander with 6 years and 116 days of activity. This achievement came after the Opportunity Rover had traveled over 12 miles on Mars, far exceeding its original mission expectations and outlasting its twin rover, the Spirit.

Why AI fails – featuring Prof Ahmed Banafa

Artificial Intelligence (AI) can now process facial recognition to make medical diagnoses, yet it often fails in ways that are predictable and sometimes catastrophic. Professor Banafa explores the multifaceted reasons behind AI failures, including biased data, overfitting, lack of contextual understanding, distributional shifts, adversarial examples, ethical oversights, and more. ​ Through real-world examples like self-driving cars struggling in snow, biased hiring tools, and rogue chatbots, this article highlights the technical, societal, and human factors that contribute to these shortcomings. Better datasets, transparent models, robust systems, and ethical governance can pave the way for trustworthy and effective AI. Read now!

Student Profile – Aashna Gajaria

For Aashna Gajaria, Aerospace Engineering is more than just a major—it’s a lifelong passion fueled by exploration, creativity, and hands-on activities. Now a senior at San José State University (SJSU), Aashna has blended her curiosity with a love for adventure, whether designing rockets, snowboarding, or studying abroad, she continuously seeks to help build technology that expands what’s possible for humanity in space.

Born and raised in the heart of Silicon Valley, Aashna credits her parents, an engineer and a teacher, for fostering her curiosity and work ethic. “Both of them worked incredibly hard to give me opportunities they didn’t have,” she shares. She’s proudly paving her own path in a field where she is motivated to make meaningful differences.

Her interest in engineering started at a young age. The initial spark began after attending NASA Open Days, where she had the opportunity to watch demos, see real spacecraft models, and be immersed in the world of aerospace. At home, she found joy in building kits, fixing things with her parents, and experimenting with remote control cars. Aashna says, “Those early experiences made engineering feel natural and exciting, like something I was meant to do.”

This drive eventually led her to take on a Rocket Club leadership role. As treasurer, Aashna combines technical work with planning, budgeting, and fundraising to ensure members have the resources to bring their ideas to life. One of her most memorable experiences was at Tripoli Central California, where they built, launched, and recovered rockets using certified H or I impulse class motors, earning them a Level 1 (L1) Certification. She helped first-time flyers with their OpenRocket simulations, making an unforgettable experience for them.

Aashna’s leadership and skills also extend beyond the campus. This summer, she’ll be joining Lockheed Martin as a Systems Engineering intern. After attending a satellite presentation on campus, she stayed behind to speak with recruiters and made a strong impression. To prepare for the interview, Aashna says, “I held mock interview sessions with my mentor at NASA, which gave me valuable practice and boosted my confidence.”

Through her time at SJSU, one of the skills Aashna is most proud of is her ability to think from multiple perspectives. “There’s rarely just one right answer in engineering,” she says. “Being able to look at challenges from multiple angles helps me collaborate better with others, find creative solutions, and understand that everyone sees the world differently.”

Aashna envisions her future to be working at organizations like NASA, Lockheed Martin, or contributing to deep space missions and next-generation projects like the James Webb Space Telescope. She’s interested in integrating nuclear energy into space missions for propulsion and sustainable power systems.

With every project and launch, Aashna is both figuratively and literally reaching for the stars, inspiring others to dream big and push the boundaries of what’s possible.

Tech investing playbook: Evolution of Big Tech dominance – featuring Prof. Ahmed Banafa

The “Magnificent Seven” in stock include Alphabet (Google), Amazon, Apple, Meta Platforms (Facebook), Microsoft, Nvidia, and Tesla, which make up nearly 30% of the S&P 500 (a stock ranking index). Professor Banafa explains that while this is not new, drawing on past time periods like the dot-com era and the FAANG wave, what is notable is the products and services these companies are offering to business operations (B2B), especially with AI reshaping these operations. While these companies are incredibly profitable, cash-rich, and globally dominant, as an investor, if one stumble occurs, their whole portfolio can be affected.

Watch Banafa’s full interview now!

Student Profile – Fernando Sánchez López

Fernando “Ferch” Sanchez Lopez is a senior computer engineering student. After growing up in Mexico and reuniting with his mother in the U.S. at 18, Ferch went on to pursue higher education at the College of Marin before transferring to San José State University, describing his SJSU experience as transformative, challenging, and inspiring. After facing the challenges of adapting to a new culture, he affirmed to supporting underrepresented communities in STEM, and his leadership involvement with organizations like the Society of Latino Engineers and Scientists (SOLES) and MESA. Since receiving the Harry Wong Scholarship, his plans to pursue graduate school seem more within reach, and he strives to inspire future generations by bridging STEM education with social justice.

Watch the interview.

Cloudathon

Collage Image (Photo credit – Vinhson Nguyen)

On Saturday, April 26, the Charles W. Davidson College of Engineering at San José State University hosted the inaugural Cloudathon@SJSU, a fast-paced cloud computing competition that brought together students, faculty, and professionals from Amazon’s AWS Cloud team. The event welcomed over 100 students from diverse academic backgrounds to compete in two core categories: Cloud Computing and Computer Networks. Working in teams, students faced real-world technical challenges designed to simulate the kinds of scenarios professionals encounter in industry, using Amazon Web Services (AWS) tools and infrastructure.

For students like Ena Macahiya, Izabella Doser, Arianna Gonzales, and Arian Bahram, Cloudathon was both a chance to explore new technical skills and a fun way to connect with friends while gaining hands-on experience with Amazon’s cloud tools.

The event was spearheaded in part by Richard Grotegut, a lecturer at SJSU and a pivotal figure in launching the college’s networking curriculum. For Grotegut, Cloudathon is more than just a competition—it’s a bridge to industry realities. “This is a glimpse into the real world for students and gives them an opportunity to face challenges that they have to overcome,” he explained. With the success and high energy of this first event, Grotegut and the organizing team hope to establish Cloudathon as an annual tradition, helping students develop both technical and collaborative skills in a fast-evolving digital landscape.

Grad Slam Winner

The SJSU Grad Slam is an annual competition that showcases the innovative research and graduate students’ projects in a dynamic, engaging format. Participants deliver a three-minute presentation on their research to a diverse audience, aiming to communicate complex ideas in an accessible way. This year’s first-place winner, Tomy Tran, who is pursuing a Master’s in Mechanical Engineering, impressed the judges with his research on using electric vehicles (EVs) to power homes. His innovative software tool could make EVs a practical solution during power outages, promoting both sustainability and energy independence. Congratulations Tomy!

Watch his full presentation now.

API & SWANA Heritage Month – Ankit Upadhyay

Image (Courtesy of Mahmood Hossain, Masala)

In honor of AAPI Month, we celebrate Ankit Upadhyay, a distinguished entrepreneur and a San José State University alum holding a bachelor’s degree in Industrial Systems Engineering. His journey started from the heart of Delhi to Silicon Valley and now to Southeast Asia. As the Founder of A2D Ventures and Senior Advisor at McKinsey, Ankit excels across technology, finance, and venture capital industries. During his time in the Bay Area, where he pivoted from engineering to business consulting, he was driven by a passion for solving complex problems and building sustainable businesses.

Ankit’s work in Thailand has enabled him to significantly impact the startup ecosystem, assisting local entrepreneurs in scaling their businesses globally through mentorship and capital access. At A2D Ventures, he focuses on democratizing venture capital access for Southeast Asian startups, helping them secure early-stage funding from angel investors and global networks. His diverse experience with firms like McKinsey, SanDisk, and Shopee has equipped him with operational experience and cultural dynamics of the region. Ankit recognizes the crucial role of startups in driving economic growth and job creation, particularly in emerging markets like Thailand. His journey highlights the power of combining technical expertise with strategic insight, offering invaluable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs at SJSU and beyond.

Read more of his story now!

Spartan Racing EV and Baja Club Reveal

The Spartan Racing and Baja teams recently took over a private auto enthusiast club at an undisclosed location on the Peninsula, drawing a crowd eager to catch a glimpse of their latest engineering feats. Both teams proudly showcased their vehicles and the upgrades that set them apart this season.

The Baja team highlighted their car’s new all-wheel drive system, along with a series of performance and durability enhancements aimed at conquering off-road challenges. Meanwhile, the Spartan Racing team drew attention to their upgraded electric vehicle (EV) powertrain, as well as the extensive work put into refining the vehicle’s aerodynamic package.

The racing team’s newest additions include a set of carefully designed aerodynamic components—rear spoilers, front splitters, and other flow-control devices—all engineered to improve stability and downforce at high speeds by optimizing how air moves around the car’s body.

If OpenAI Buys Chrome, AI May Rule Web Browsing – featuring Prof. Ahmed Banafa

Reports reveal that OpenAI may seek to acquire Google’s Chrome browser if regulators force a divestiture, a move experts say could reshape the internet and AI landscape forever. With Chrome’s 3.3 billion users, OpenAI could embed AI directly into everyday browsing, but experts like Professor Banafa warn it risks simply swapping one tech monopoly for another. This could be a bold move that sparks innovation or triggers new concerns over competition, privacy, and power. Read the full article to find out what’s at stake.

College of Engineering GO Program to Conclude This Semester

The College of Engineering’s GO Program will officially conclude at the end of this semester. Designed to encourage student engagement through events and activities, the program has provided students with opportunities to earn points toward a variety of prizes.
Students who have accumulated 30 points or more are encouraged to redeem their points for rewards as outlined on the CoE GO Program webpages by May 1st.

For details on available prizes and the redemption process, please visit the GO Program section on the College of Engineering website or fill out this form. Don’t miss your chance to claim your rewards before the semester wraps up!

Student Profile – Udayveer Singh Grewal

Udayveer Singh Grewal is set to graduate this semester from San José State University (SJSU) with a degree in Civil Engineering. His journey from New Delhi to Silicon Valley reflects both resilience and ambition.

Back in New Delhi, India, where he spent his early years, he attended  Mayo College, a boarding school in Ajmer. After ninth grade, his family relocated to the United States, and he completed school at Washington High School in Fremont, California, and later joined SJSU. Udayveer finds balance through long-distance running and basketball, hobbies that keep him balanced for the demands of engineering courses.

The move was a turning point for Udayveer. He was captivated by the thoughtful infrastructure designs of buildings, roads, and public spaces that were all around his new environment. This fascination soon evolved into a career aspiration: “I realized I wanted to choose a profession that would help me work closely with the design and construction of these structures,” he shares. A pivotal moment came during his senior year of high school, when he interviewed a civil engineer for his English project. Hearing firsthand about the profession’s impact and daily duties solidified his decision to pursue civil engineering.

Eventually, Udayveer landed an internship at Kimley-Horn in summer 2024, a nationally recognized engineering consulting firm. As an intern, he contributed to land development projects, focusing on creating and optimizing entitlement plans for major retail brands. He gained technical proficiency and confidence through this role due to its extensive use of AutoCAD. Additionally, working on drafting Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plans (SWPPP) for large-scale projects deepened his understanding of environmental compliance and sustainable drainage systems. Organizing construction documents for multi-family housing developments has further exposed him to the complexities of both onsite and offsite improvements. “The internship solidified my interest in land development and helped me decide that this is the field I want to work in the future,” he reflects.

Kimley-Horn is known for its reputation as an intern-friendly company with a strong focus on mentorship, hands-on training, and professional networking, all of which appealed to Udayveer. After connecting with the team at an SJSU career fair, he was impressed by their commitment to developing young professionals. The firm’s national presence and involvement in major infrastructure projects offered the scale and impact he was seeking. “I was excited to gain experience at a firm with such a broad reach and to be part of projects that have a real impact on communities,” he says.

For any students hoping to land his role, Udayveer recommends building a solid academic foundation and becoming proficient with industry-standard tools like AutoCAD. But he also emphasizes the power of networking, “ Building that personal connection can go a long way,” he shares. Udayveer encourages students to demonstrate eagerness to learn: “Companies like Kimley-Horn value a strong work ethic and a positive attitude just as much as technical skills.”

Reflecting back, Udayveer is most proud of his ability to quickly adapt and learn new skills, especially when tackling unfamiliar software and real-world engineering challenges. He believes this adaptability is essential for success in the fast-evolving field of civil engineering.

In the future, Udayveer envisions himself as a licensed civil engineer, leading transformative building projects that shape urban skylines and serve diverse communities. His dream is to contribute to large-scale mixed-use developments that prioritize both structural integrity and environmental sustainability. Through green infrastructure, improved stormwater management, or energy-efficient systems, he aims to help build a better future for cities and the environment.

“I want my work to contribute to building a better future—both for cities and the environment.”
— Udayveer Singh Grewal

API & SWANA Heritage Month – Rachid Yazami

Rachid Yazami, born in Fez, Morocco, in 1953, stands as one of North Africa’s most influential scientists and inventors, renowned globally for his groundbreaking work in battery technology. He holds a PhD in Materials Science and Electrochemistry from the Grenoble Institute of Technology. His invention of the graphite anode for lithium-ion batteries in the early 1980s revolutionized portable electronics and electric vehicles, enabling the development of rechargeable batteries now used in billions of devices, from smartphones to laptops and EVs. With over 150 patents and 200 scientific publications, Yazami’s influence extends across academia and industry.

In 2025, Yazami was awarded a new patent in China for a safety feature that helps prevent fires and explosions in EV batteries, an innovation that addresses a major concern as electric cars become more popular. This breakthrough is especially important for regions with extreme climates, making EVs safer for everyone.

As we honor North African Heritage Month, Yazami’s latest patent in China not only advances the safety of electric vehicles worldwide but also shines a spotlight on North Africa’s enduring legacy of innovation and its vital role in shaping a sustainable future.

Read more about his inventions now!

SJSU College of Engineering 2025 Showcase Kicks Off Research Week

Across the different departments of the College of Engineering (CoE) at SJSU, students are not just hitting the books; they are building the future with their own hands. Through bold innovation, collaborative design, and real-world problem solving, knowledge seekers are developing projects that are transforming lives and industries. From robotics to rockets, their creativity has no limits. Here are some, but not all the projects that were on display at the 2025 Showcase that kicked off the university’s Research Week at SJSU, where faculty, staff, supporters, and alumni were able to view.

Walking Toward Independence

At the intersection of robotics and human health, student teams at the SJSU CoE have focused on developing robotic exoskeletons and mobility aids for individuals. These wearable technologies use sensors, motors, and artificial intelligence (AI) to help individuals regain balance and movement, offering new hope for stroke survivors, those with tremors, and mobility issues, just to name a few.

Helping the Visually Impaired Navigate the World

An inspiring effort is underway that involves robotic and AI-guided systems for the visually impaired. CoE students are designing smart canes, wearable devices that use ultrasonic sensors, and real-time mapping to help users safely and confidently navigate their environments, both indoors and out.

Stretching the Genome: A New Frontier

In the realm of bioengineering, students are exploring genome stretching techniques that could revolutionize personalized medicine. By manipulating DNA at a molecular level using microfluidics and nano-tools, they aim to enhance genome sequencing and diagnostics, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in genetic research.

From Cement Canoes to Concrete Ideas

In a mix of fun and function, the civil engineering program at SJSU, after a hiatus, has reignited the participation in an annual international competition where students build and race concrete canoes—yes, canoes that actually float! These projects require advanced knowledge of material science and buoyancy, blending structural engineering with a healthy dose of creativity. In the 2025 competition, SJSU CoE concrete canoe team went from 7th place to 3rd place from 2024 to 2025, and has their sights set on 1st place in 2026. Go get them, team!

Bridges Built on Innovation

Speaking of structures, bridge-building contests are a mainstay in engineering education. Students use lightweight materials to construct efficient, load-bearing bridges. The goal: create maximum strength with minimum weight.

Engineering Speed: The Rise of Electric Race Cars

Automotive engineering students are continuing their efforts with electric vehicle (EV) racing cars. These battery-powered speedsters are designed from the ground up, blending mechanical, electrical, and software engineering into sleek, competitive machines. Many have since participated in national competitions like Formula SAE Electric.

Powering Progress Through Diversity

Among all these exciting developments, one trend is reshaping engineering in an equally important way: the rise of women in STEM. Student organizations and national initiatives are actively supporting and mentoring women pursuing this goal, making classrooms and labs more inclusive, diverse, and dynamic.

From health tech to high-tech, bridges to biomechanics, today’s engineering students are not just dreaming about the future—they’re building it. With their hands on the tools and their eyes on the stars, they’re proving that innovation is a team sport, powered by purpose, and driven by passion.

Federal judge declares that Google’s digital ad network is an illegal monopoly – Featuring Prof Ahmed Banafa

Google has been labeled an abusive monopolist for allegedly exploiting its digital advertising empire to stifle competition and inflate profits. A federal judge ruled that Google unfairly tied its ad services together, forcing publishers to rely on its ecosystem, a move the Justice Department says hurt news outlets and online businesses alike. With the government now seeking penalties as severe as breaking up Google’s ad business or even selling its Chrome browser, the tech giant plans to appeal the decision.

Watch the full video to learn more about this ongoing lawsuit.

College of Engineering GO Program to Conclude This Semester

The College of Engineering’s GO Program will officially conclude at the end of this semester. Designed to encourage student engagement through events and activities, the program has provided students with opportunities to earn points toward a variety of prizes.
Students who have accumulated 30 points or more are encouraged to redeem their points for rewards as outlined on the CoE GO Program webpages by May 1st.

For details on available prizes and the redemption process, please visit the GO Program section on the College of Engineering website or fill out this form. Don’t miss your chance to claim your rewards before the semester wraps up!

engineering at San Jose State College Magazine

Student Profile – Clarence Choi

For Clarence Choi, engineering isn’t just a field of study—it’s a mindset shaped by curiosity, creativity, and community. Now as a first-year master’s student in Mechanical Engineering at San José State University, Clarence has spent his academic journey practicing classroom knowledge with hands-on experience. Whether he’s building scale models, capturing scenic shots on hiking trails, or leading initiatives with Spartan Racing, his approach to engineering reflects a passion for discovery and helping others grow alongside him.

Born and raised in Pleasanton, California, Clarence’s heritage originates from Hong Kong and Shanghai, and he’s proud to be the first person in his family born in America to attend college. From childhood his interest in building Legos and watching shows like “How It’s Made” and “Mythbusters”—sparked a fascination with how things work. As he progressed through hands-on classes in school, that curiosity spark grew into a career pursuit toward engineering.

At first, Clarence didn’t have any intention of taking up any leadership role within Spartan Racing. However, after being inspired by Matan Blum’s work, a 2022 alumni, he became treasurer and took on responsibilities in logistics, documentation, and strengthening the College’s relationship with the team. His most memorable project was the SR-15, the team’s 2023-2024 car, where he managed everything from budget oversight and merchandise organization to brake system design and validation alongside 2 other students, Rahul S and Aaron B. That year, the car placed 5th in the nation and 1st in California.

Beyond technical knowledge, Clarence values the real-world lessons that can’t be taught in a classroom—time management, project leadership, and mentoring others. Being part of Spartan Racing allowed him to apply classroom knowledge to real-world challenges. From meeting deadlines to collaborating with teammates on complex projects, all gave him a taste of industry expectations. Engaging with alumni also provided valuable insights and advice that helped guide the team’s design decisions.

As he passes the baton to the next generation of Spartan Racing leaders, Clarence advises, “A physical/digital documentation with images creates a better path of writing as it can be applied to technical papers and reports.” His efforts to establish better documentation practices ensured future members could continue improving the team’s performance, especially by having new members read it and ask questions, filtering out “holes” in the document.

Clarence may not have his future perfectly mapped out, but he is certain that he wants to be part of a passionate, collaborative team solving complex problems. “I don’t know where I’ll be. I do know I want to work with a good team and take down whatever problems that get thrown at me” he says, “to work in an industry that has passionate people is definitely something meaningful to me!” With his passion, adaptability, and dedication to teamwork, Clarence Choi is going full throttle into a future built on impact.

Excitement in the Air as Admitted Spartans Visit the College of Engineering

On Saturday, April 12, the College of Engineering welcomed admitted students and their families for a special on-campus visit filled with energy, curiosity, and anticipation. The event offered future engineers a firsthand look at the vibrant academic community and innovative resources that await them.

The day featured guided lab tours across all departments, where visitors got an inside look at ongoing research and cutting-edge technology. One standout attraction was the flight simulator lab, which drew particular interest from students eager to explore aviation as their major.
Each engineering department hosted engaging presentations, with civil, electrical, mechanical, and computer engineering sessions drawing especially large crowds. In fact, the turnout was so strong that the areas filled to standing room only, a clear sign of the enthusiasm and interest among the admitted students and their families.

Adding a personal touch to the day, visitors had the unique opportunity to enjoy coffee and conversation with Dean Sheryl Ehrman. The informal gathering offered a chance to ask questions, hear about the college’s vision, and connect directly with the leadership.
The event served not only to showcase the strengths of the College of Engineering but also to welcome the next generation of innovators into a community ready to inspire and support their educational journey.

A big thank you to the faculty, staff, and student volunteers who gave their time to the event. A special shout out to Brandi Rubino, the CoE events aficionado, for pulling ASD together!

API & SWANA Heritage Month – ATM Machine

In honor of AAPI Heritage Month, this article highlights the remarkable journey of Dr. Đỗ Đức Cường, a Vietnamese-born inventor who revolutionized the Automated Teller Machine (ATM) industry. Growing up in the rural countryside of Việt Nam, Dr. Cường overcame numerous challenges to become a trailblazer in engineering and banking. After earning a scholarship to study in Japan and working for Toshiba, he moved to the United States. In 1977, Dr. Cường was personally invited by Citibank’s CEO to join the company, where he led a team of engineers in tackling the challenge of enhancing financial services for the public. His leadership played a pivotal role in the development of the ATM, a now-essential technology that has transformed how we access cash and reshaped the banking experience. Read the full article to learn more about his story.

Hacked Silicon Valley crosswalk buttons play messages imitating Mark Zuckerberg, Elon Musk – featuring Prof. Ahmed Banafa

Crosswalk buttons across the Peninsula stunned pedestrians this weekend by playing hacked voice messages impersonating Mark Zuckerberg and Elon Musk, delivering bizarre and unsettling monologues about AI, loneliness, and even cybertrucks. The prank, which affected intersections in Palo Alto, Menlo Park, and Redwood City, prompted swift action from city officials to disable the audio systems. This strange incident has everyone asking—how did this happen, and who’s behind it? Watch the full video to hear the hacked crosswalks for yourself.

College of Engineering GO Program to Conclude This Semester

The College of Engineering’s GO Program will officially conclude at the end of the current semester. Designed to encourage student engagement through events and activities, the program has provided students with opportunities to earn points toward a variety of prizes.
Students who have accumulated 30 points or more are encouraged to redeem their points for rewards as outlined on the CoE GO Program webpages before the program ends.

For details on available prizes and the redemption process, please visit the GO Program section on the College of Engineering website. Don’t miss your chance to claim your rewards before the semester wraps up!