Spartan Engineers: Meet Ricardo, Luncheon Recap, Apple Mentorship, and more!

Student Profile – Ricardo Geusen

Ricardo Geusen Banner with quote from story

For biomedical engineering student Ricardo Geusen, curiosity and family inspiration led him toward a career focused on improving people’s health through innovation. Now as a sophomore at San José State University (SJSU), Ricardo balances his studies with an active lifestyle that includes working out, hiking, visiting the Lick Observatory, and attending Spartan football games.

Born and raised in Santa Rosa, California, Ricardo grew up in a family that valued both education and creativity. His father, a professional engineer, sparked his early passion in the field. “He would tell me about the projects he was working on at work and they were always so interesting and cool to me,” Ricardo says. “The products he makes help people feel better, which felt like he was doing something fulfilling.”

That inspiration guided Ricardo to an internship with Shockwave Medical, where he worked as a Research and Development intern. His main focus was on a next-generation intravascular lithotripsy balloon catheter, a device used to treat calcium buildup in arteries. He designed and prototyped fixtures using SolidWorks, performed lab testing, wrote detailed engineering reports, and presented his findings to the research and development team. The experience deepened his passion for the field. Reflecting on his time at Shockwave, he shares, “I’m even more focused on becoming a full-time research and development engineer at a medical device company after receiving my degree.”

Ricardo was drawn to Shockwave Medical for its innovation and real-world impact. He admired the company’s leadership in catheter technology and found the environment both supportive and inspiring. The team’s passion and willingness to help reinforced his own motivation to keep learning and improving his skills.

Looking ahead, Ricardo hopes to continue working in medical device research and development, creating technologies that make a meaningful difference in people’s lives. His goal is to help design devices that not only succeed on the market but also improve health outcomes for patients around the world.

SJSU College of Engineering Honors Student Scholars and Donors at Annual Luncheon

Scholar LuncheonThe Charles W. Davidson College of Engineering at San José State University hosted its annual Scholarship Luncheon to celebrate the achievements of student scholars and the generosity of donors who make their success possible.

Associate Dean Nicole Okamoto opened the event, explained the agenda, welcomed guests and introduced Dean Sheryl Ehrman, who expressed deep gratitude to donors for “removing barriers, opening doors, and fueling futures.” Dean Ehrman recognized individual, family, and corporate supporters whose contributions fund dozens of scholarships that directly impact students’ educational journeys.

SJSU President Dr. Cynthia Teniente-Matson reflected on the power of access and opportunity, noting that “talent is everywhere, but opportunity is not.” She praised the donors’ role in uplifting the next generation of innovators and entrepreneurs, emphasizing how SJSU engineers are shaping Silicon Valley’s future.

Associate Dean Okamoto shared that the college awarded nearly 190 scholarships this year, supporting students in one of the university’s most rigorous disciplines: Engineering. “Scholarships free our students to focus on learning, innovating, and giving back,” she said, highlighting the impact of hands-on clubs, research teams, and mentorship programs.

Student speakers Tinsae Woldemichael (Electrical Engineering) and Rishi Sheth (Computer Engineering) shared how scholarship support and real-world engineering experiences have shaped their goals and resilience and reflects the impact of donor generosity.

Closing the event, Associate Dean Okamoto emphasized the powerful connection between students and donors, noting that scholarships do more than support academics—they empower students to pursue ambitious goals, develop their skills, and contribute back to their communities. Scholarship supporters were encouraged to continue nurturing these relationships and were invited to return on April 13, 2026 for the College’s Showcase and Celebration, where they can see firsthand the innovative projects and accomplishments their support makes possible.

SJSU Engineering Students Plug Into Apple’s Future of Innovation

Apple’s first-ever Next-Gen Innovators Mentorship Program

Photo courtesy Brian Anderson, ’24 MFA Digital Media Art

Ten standout San José State University engineering and computer science students have joined Apple’s first-ever Next-Gen Innovators Mentorship Program — a ten-month experience pairing SJSU sophomores and juniors with Apple’s world-class hardware engineering mentors. Through monthly collaborations, résumé and interview workshops, and career guidance, students gain insider access to how Apple designs and builds its cutting-edge technology.

For Sandra Ramirez (’27 Mechanical Engineering), the program is both professional and personal. “Being a Mexican female in engineering is intimidating,” she said. “This is about my community — inspiring other girls to pursue STEM. My mentor designs hardware, and I can’t wait to learn how the industry really works.”

Marl Jonson (’28 Computer Science), the son of Filipino immigrants, sees it as a chance to level up: “When I heard about the mentorship, I knew I had to apply. I owe it to myself to make the most of these connections at Apple.”

Apple executive Chris Vieira encouraged students to rely on each other and stay true to Apple’s mission of creating technology that enriches lives. Dean Sheryl Ehrman of SJSU’s College of Engineering added, “I’m excited to see our students participating in Apple’s Next-Gen Innovators Mentorship program and I’m grateful to Apple for their support.”

Bottom line: SJSU’s brightest engineers now have a front-row seat to Apple’s innovation engine — and they’re ready to design the future.

Read the full story on the SJSU blog.

Prof. Ahmed Banafa – Fears of an AI Bubble Rise in Bay Area

Harnessing the Power of Artificial IntelligenceAt San Francisco’s Dreamforce 2025 conference, excitement about artificial intelligence is mixed with growing concern about a possible “AI bubble”. Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff announced a $15 billion plan to make the Bay Area the world’s AI capital. However, journalist Andrew Ross Sorkin warned that the rapid rise in AI investments could lead to an economic crash similar to 1929 if profits don’t match the hype. UC Berkeley professor Olaf Groth said the next year will be critical for proving AI’s long term value. SJSU professor Ahmad Banafa, though, believes major companies like Microsoft and Google are strong enough to prevent a collapse.

Read the full story.

John Herrington: First Native American Astronaut

John HerringtonJohn Herrington is a Chickasaw Nation citizen, naval aviator, and engineer who made history as the first Native American to travel to space aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavor in 2002.

Herrington’s journey began with a fascination for flight, inspired by his father, a flight instructor. After earning his degree and training as a naval aviator, he logged over 3,800 flight hours before being selected as a mission specialist by NASA in 1996. He completed three spacewalks, helped assemble the International Space Station, and even participated in underwater missions to test survival systems.

Herrington carried symbols of his Chickasaw heritage with him, such as tribal flag, an eagle feather, and a Cherokee-made flute. Today, Herrington continues to inspire future generations as a science storyteller, encouraging Native youth to explore careers in STEM and engineering, and challenging stereotypes of what it means to be Native American.

Spartan Engineers: Jessica – Engineering Her Future, Smarter Shipping, Honoring Native American Innovation and more!

Student Profile – Jessica Wight

Jessica Wight Banner with quote from story

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

smart warehouse with artificial intelligence, without human intervention. autonomous form of sorting and loading of goods. smart logistics and sorting technologies. Generative AIAmazon 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.

Read the full story…

Mary G. Ross: Trailblazing Engineer

Native American Heritage Month bannerThis 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.

Spartan Engineers: April’s Story, Patent Law Careers, Quantum Crypto, Global Adventures and more!

Student Profile – April Santillan

April Santillan Banner with quote from story

April Santillan is a senior at San José State University (SJSU) majoring in Civil and Environmental Engineering. Outside of school, she enjoys spending time outdoors, exploring national parks, cooking, and finding new coffee spots around the Bay Area. These activities help her balance her busy academic schedule with relaxation and exploration.

April grew up in the Bay Area and is proud to be the first in her family to attend college. Coming from a close knit family, she says, “Being able to pursue an engineering degree feels like a big accomplishment not only for me but also for my family.” Her early interest in civil engineering developed as she learned how infrastructure projects impact communities and the environment. Professors at SJSU encouraged her to take on leadership roles and look beyond the classroom, reinforcing her passion for engineering.

This past summer, April interned at the Santa Clara Valley Water District in the Construction Contracts and Support Unit. She helped review contract data, supported project documentation, and participated in field visits, including a pre-bid site visit for the Palo Alto Tide Gate Seismic Retrofit and Rehabilitation Project. Through her internship, she saw firsthand how collaboration between design, construction, and contracts teams transforms ideas into sustainable projects that make a real impact. She gained a better understanding of public agency operations and confirmed her interest in water resources and infrastructure development.

April chose Valley Water because of its mission to ensure safe, reliable water and protect the environment. She was impressed by the supportive company culture, saying, “Everyone I met was passionate about their work, willing to share knowledge, and encouraged interns to ask questions and get involved.” The experience gave her valuable insight into professional collaboration and career development.

Looking ahead, April hopes to work in water resources or transportation, contributing to projects that improve community safety and sustainability. She wants to apply her skills to create infrastructure that protects both people and the environment while making a lasting impact.

Dean’s Career Conversation: Patent Law Opportunities for Engineers

DCC Group October 2025

Rear center from left to right: speaker Tae-Woong Koo, Dean Sheryl Ehrman and ME Chair Hohyun Lee.

On Monday, October 27, Tae-Woong Koo from the law firm of Morgan Lewis brought the world of patent law to life for over 25 engineering students from across the chemical, electrical, materials, and software engineering departments.

A regulatory affairs professional and holder of more than 30 patents, Tae-Woong shared how engineers can turn their technical backgrounds into exciting careers as technical specialists, patent agents, and patent lawyers, and discussed what it takes to get there.

He revealed one of the biggest perks of the field: getting a first look at breakthrough technologies before they ever hit the market, and helping shape how those innovations reach the world.

Students engaged in a lively Q&A, gaining insider advice on career paths, education choices, and how to stand out in the world of intellectual property.

Join us for the next Dean’s Career Conversation on Monday, November 3, featuring Zain Zaidi, Co-founder and CEO of Transcrypts—a blockchain-powered platform giving individuals control over their verified credentials and digital identity.

Be there. Be inspired. Shape your future!

Prof. Ahmed Banafa – Quantum Computing vs Crypto

Quantum Computing graphicBitcoin and Ethereum are at risk because quantum computers could break their current encryption, ECDSA, within the next decade. Mysten Labs warns that without upgrades to post-quantum cryptography, attackers could steal funds from users’ wallets. Professor Ahmed Banafa at SJSU explains that fixing this requires hard forks, which are complicated and involve creating new wallet addresses and moving funds. Some newer blockchains like Solana and Sui are better prepared because they use quantum-resistant encryption methods. Experts say the crypto community needs to act quickly, or millions of wallets could become vulnerable.

Read the full story…

Global Technology Institute Study Abroad Program

Taiwan Study Abroad Pics

The SJSU College of Engineering’s Global Technology Initiative (GTI) gives students a unique opportunity to gain a global perspective on technology, business, and entrepreneurship through a summer study abroad program in Taiwan. Participants get to engage in lectures, projects, field trips, and cultural experiences. All program expenses, including airfare, accommodations, and program fees, are covered by the College of Engineering, with students only responsible for food costs. To learn more about eligibility and application requirements, visit the GTI program website. The deadline to apply is Friday, October 31, 2025 at 5:00 PM. Apply now to seize the chance to expand your horizons!

Spartan Engineers: Mateo’s Future Impact, Cadence on Campus, UAVs, and More!

Student Profile – Mateo Johnson

Mateo Johnson Banner with quote from story

Mateo Johnson is a fourth year chemical engineering student at San José State University (SJSU) who hopes to use his education to make a real impact on issues like sustainability and energy. Outside of school, he enjoys listening to music, working out, and cooking, often experimenting with new recipes when meal prepping for the week.

Mateo grew up in Santa Cruz, California, and spent part of his childhood in San Ignacio, Bolivia, where his mom is from. His parents’ stories had a big influence on him. “My mom immigrated from Bolivia, selling all of her belongings to buy the plane ticket here, and worked multiple jobs for years to build a better life from the ground up,” he says. His dad earned a Ph.D. in physics, which showed him the value of higher education and inspired him to keep pushing toward his goals.

In high school, Mateo’s interest in science grew after taking a chemistry class with a teacher who was passionate about the subject. That class helped him realize that chemical engineering could connect his curiosity for science with his desire to solve real-world problems. He recently interned on a research project that focused on breaking down polystyrene, a plastic widely used in package materials like styrofoam. He tested a new technique that uses radical initiators to cut polymer chains at lower temperatures, and gained experience in running experiments, analyzing data, and presenting results.

Mateo says the project gave him valuable insight into how research can address real environmental issues and confirmed his goal of pursuing a career in sustainability. “Every semester, I’ve tried to challenge myself a little bit further, whether that be through tougher class loads or extracurricular commitments,” he explains. “What I’ve learned is that there will always be apprehension when facing something unfamiliar, but putting yourself in places of discomfort always leads to the greatest growth opportunities.”

Looking ahead, Mateo plans to pursue a master’s degree abroad in chemical engineering and continue working on projects related to energy and sustainability. He hopes to use his technical skills to create solutions that make a lasting, positive impact on both people and the environment.

SJSU and Cadence Partner to Power the Next Generation of Engineers

Cadence SJSU

Image courtesy of Brian Anderson

On October 10, 2025, Charles W. Davidson College of Engineering at San José State University was buzzing with purpose during “Cadence on Campus Day,” a full-day event that marked a major step forward in the university’s ongoing collaboration with Cadence Design Systems. The event brought together students, faculty, and Cadence experts and focused on connection, innovation, and a shared commitment to preparing tomorrow’s engineering leaders.

The event opened with a high-level meeting between SJSU leadership—including President Cynthia Teniente-Matson and Dean of Engineering Sheryl Ehrman—and Cadence representatives KT Moore, VP of Corporate Marketing, and Nicole Johnson, President of the Cadence Giving Foundation. Among other Cadence staff, they were joined by recent SJSU alumna Umama Oishi (BS Electrical Engineering, ’25), now an Application Engineer at Cadence. Umama is a living example of the partnership’s impact on student careers.

A major highlight of the morning came when Nicole Johnson announced a new multi-year commitment from the Cadence Giving Foundation to support SJSU’s engineering initiatives. This investment not only deepens Cadence’s partnership with the university, but also ensures that students will have greater access to hands-on opportunities and industry-connected research for years to come.

Cadence leaders shared how the company is expanding beyond its core in semiconductor design to embrace fast-growing areas like computational fluid dynamics (CFD), multiphysics simulation, and digital twin technologies. These tools are essential in areas like data center design and AI infrastructure, critical industries where future SJSU grads will play key roles. For students, proficiency in these cutting-edge tools means stepping into high-impact roles across sectors.

SJSU faculty rose to the occasion, showcasing how the university’s research aligns with Cadence’s innovation goals. Presentations from Electrical Engineering Chair David Parent, Professor Hiu-Yung Wong and Assistant Professor Mike Nguyen, along with Mechanical Engineering Chair Hohyun Lee and Associate Professor Farzan Kazemifar, delved into topics like workforce development, advanced chip design, thermal management and system modeling. Aerospace Professor Periklis Papadopoulos showcased applications of CFD in cubesat and Mars mission research. The sessions sparked active dialogue about collaborative research and new educational pathways.

The energy continued with a networking lunch and career panel, where Cadence leaders CFD R&D Fellow Frank Ham and Group Sales Director Sherman Ikemoto (BS Mechanical Engineering, ’86) shared their personal stories and industry insights with students.

In the afternoon, Cadence guests toured key facilities where their strategic visions will come to life: the Spartan Racing Formula SAE shop, the Cadence IC Design Lab (originally donated in 2002), and the future site of SJSU’s new Digital Twin Lab.

“Cadence on Campus Day” was more than an event, it was a powerful demonstration of what industry and academic collaboration can achieve. With Cadence’s continued support, SJSU students are being equipped not just for jobs, but to lead the future of engineering in Silicon Valley and beyond.

Spartan Flight: SJSU’s Drone Dream Team Takes Off

man operating of flying drone quadrocopter at sunsetMeet Ben Nguyen, a second-year Computer Engineering major at San José State University, and the co-founder and current president of Spartan Flight, SJSU’s first student organization dedicated to building autonomous drones and unmanned aerial systems (UAS).

Born and raised in San José and a graduate of Evergreen Valley High School, Ben is driven by the rapid advancements in drone and aerial vehicle technology. Inspired by companies like Archer (urban air mobility) and Skydio (AI-powered drones for emergency response), he saw a gap at SJSU: no student-led team focused on engineering UAVs with a focus on autonomy. So, with fellow co-founder Andy Van, he built one from the ground up.

Starting Spartan Flight wasn’t easy. With no funding during their first summer build cycle, Ben and his team invested over $1,000 each out of pocket to bring their vision to life. Without institutional support, they had to be meticulous, which meant that every technical decision came with financial consequences. That pressure taught the team the value of careful planning, risk assessment, and resource management, valuable lessons no classroom could replicate.

Now, the team is working toward its first major milestone: competing in the Student Unmanned Aerial Systems (SUAS) Competition in Oklahoma in September 2026. And while they’ve been resourceful so far, they need more support—not just to finish the drone, but to ensure that every team member can afford to travel and compete.

Spartan Flight club offers more than hands-on engineering experience. It gives SJSU students the opportunity to solve real-world, interdisciplinary problems that combine mechanical, electrical, and software engineering; from computer vision and photogrammetry, to sensor fusion and GPS-denied localization.

The Spartan Flight club is an opportunity to:

  • Work on cutting-edge R&D in areas like swarm coordination and visual odometry.
  • Get recruited directly by top aerospace and UAV companies at national competitions.
  • Build a drone and an engineering team entirely from scratch—a rare and valuable experience for any aspiring engineer.

The team is actively seeking new members, collaborations with other SJSU clubs (like IEEE), industry mentors, and funding partners. They’re also planning community outreach, including showcasing their technology to local high schools to spark early interest in UAV engineering. The club’s first general meeting is on Thursday, October 23 in ENG 338 from 6 to 7pm.

Spartan Flight isn’t just another club, it’s a launchpad for the next generation of UAV engineers. Whether you’re a student looking to apply your skills, an industry professional ready to mentor, or a supporter who wants to help fund the future of drone innovation at SJSU—now is the time to get involved!

Prof. Ahmed Banafa – US and China Lead AI Efforts

AI, Machine learning, Hands of robot and human touching big data of Global network connection, Internet and digital technology, Science and artificial intelligence digital technologies of futuristic.A recent United Nations report found that just 100 companies, mostly in the United States and China, are responsible for 40% of the world’s AI research and development. The UN aims to boost global cooperation and help developing countries access AI to improve areas like healthcare, agriculture, and business. San José State University professor Ahmad Banafa explained that AI can help small businesses and individuals strengthen their economies by making work faster and more efficient. However, there are growing concerns about how AI should be governed worldwide. Both China and the United States are creating plans for global AI cooperation to ensure technology benefits people everywhere.

Read the full story…

Help shape the future of SJSU: Take the Sense of Community Survey!

Sense Of Community Survey bannerThis quick survey is your chance to speak up about what matters most: how we build a more welcoming, inclusive, and connected Spartan community. Your feedback will directly impact the university’s priorities—from campus services to programs and future investments.

Open now through Monday, October 27, 2025

Don’t miss this chance to be heard. Real change starts with your voice. Fill out the survey.

Global Technology Institute Study Abroad Program

Taiwan Study Abroad PicsThe SJSU College of Engineering’s Global Technology Initiative (GTI) gives students a unique opportunity to gain a global perspective on technology, business, and entrepreneurship through a summer study abroad program in Taiwan. Participants get to engage in lectures, projects, field trips, and cultural experiences. All program expenses, including airfare, accommodations, and program fees, are covered by the College of Engineering, with students only responsible for food costs. To learn more about eligibility and application requirements, visit the GTI program website. The deadline to apply is Friday, October 31, 2025 at 5:00 p.m.. Apply now to seize the chance to expand your horizons!

Spartan Engineers: Aditya’s Story at Snap-On, GSA Talent Initiative Event Recap, Sovereign AI Race, and more!

Student Profile – Aditya Rao

Aditya Rao banner with quote from story

Aditya Rao views software engineering as a way to create meaningful impacts through technology. Now in his second year of the Software Engineering graduate program at San José State University (SJSU), he continues to explore how intelligent systems can improve industries and everyday life.

Originally from Bangalore, India, and raised in Varanasi, Aditya’s background blends the fast paced innovation of a tech hub with the rich history and culture of one of the world’s oldest cities. This combination sparked his early curiosity in technology and gave him a deeper appreciation for how innovation can intersect with real-world problems. “This mix of a tech hub and a culturally rich city shaped both my technical curiosity and my appreciation for tradition,” he explains.

Aditya’s passion for engineering began in school, where he was fascinated by turning abstract concepts into real-world solutions through code. During his undergraduate studies, he collaborated with the Mozilla team to organize workshops on emerging technologies like WebVR and blockchain. His professional journey later took him to MiQ Digital and PharmEasy, where he worked on systems that serve millions of users. These experiences strengthened his belief that software can drive entire businesses forward.

Most recently, Aditya interned at Snap-on in San José as a Software Engineer intern. He enhanced the company’s workflow automation framework in C++, built a browser-based Excel validation engine that reduced review time by 85 percent, and led the migration of a legacy codebase to Git. The experience deepened his understanding of how software and hardware connect to deliver reliable results and taught him the importance of scalable, business-driven engineering.

Looking ahead, Aditya is passionate about the transformative power of artificial intelligence. “I see AI not just as a tool but as a lens to understand problems more deeply and as a way to build solutions on strong foundations at rapid scale,” he says. He envisions a career at the intersection of AI and large-scale systems, building products that solve complex real-world problems and leave a lasting positive impact on society.

GSA Talent Initiative Event Recap

GSA GTI 2025 SJSU RecapThe Navigate Your Way to a Career in Semiconductors event at SJSU focused on the growing energy demands of AI and career opportunities in the semiconductor industry. Attendees participated in an interactive tech challenge hosted by the Global Semiconductor Alliance (GSA) and Global Technology Institute (GTI) and learned interesting facts about semiconductors. A panel of industry experts discussed strategies for improving chip design, energy efficiency, and data center performance. The event ended with networking and refreshments, giving participants a chance to connect with professionals from leading semiconductor companies.

Prof. Ahmed Banafa – Global Race for Sovereign AI

Chat bot intelligence Ai. Businessman using chat in smartphone Chat with AI Artificial Intelligence, developed by OpenAI generate. Futuristic technology, robot in online system.Artificial intelligence has become a major focus for governments worldwide as they compete to control data, talent, and technology. This growing movement, called “sovereign AI,” was discussed by SJSU Professor Ahmed Banafa in a Jefferies webinar. Banafa explained that sovereign AI means a country developing and managing its own AI systems to stay independent and secure. The U.S., China, and the European Union are leading this race, while countries like Saudi Arabia and the UAE are quickly catching up through major investments. Although sovereign AI can boost national security and jobs, Banafa noted that it also brings high costs, risk of bias, and global competition that could slow innovation.

Read the full story…

TransCrypts Funding News

TransCrypts HeadshotsTransCrypts, a blockchain-based digital identity startup, recently raised $15 million to expand beyond employment credentials into health and educational records. The platform allows employees to securely own and share their verified records, freeing HR teams from sole control while keeping personal data private. Founded in 2020, TransCrypts already serves hundreds of enterprises and millions of users, offering blockchain-based background checks and encrypted credential storage. With AI-driven fraud on the rise, the company’s mission to give individuals full ownership of their digital identity has never been more relevant. Looking ahead, TransCrypts plans to strengthen enterprise partnerships and expand into healthcare. Students interested in learning more can attend the Dean’s Career Conversation with CEO Zain Zaidi on November 3rd at 4:00 pm in ENG 494F.

Global Technology Institute Study Abroad Program

Taiwan Study Abroad Pics

The SJSU College of Engineering’s Global Technology Initiative (GTI) gives students a unique opportunity to gain a global perspective on technology, business, and entrepreneurship through a summer study abroad program in Taiwan. Participants get to engage in lectures, projects, field trips, and cultural experiences. All program expenses, including airfare, accommodations, and program fees, are covered by the College of Engineering, with students only responsible for food costs. To learn more about eligibility and application requirements, visit the GTI program website. The deadline to apply is Friday, October 31, 2025 at 5:00 PM. Apply now to seize the chance to expand your horizons!