Fall 2025 Engineering Magazine Issue

Discover the latest innovations, student stories, and groundbreaking research from San José State University’s College of Engineering. Don’t miss the Fall 2025 issue—read it now!

Student Profile – Parth Mistry

For Parth Mistry, engineering has always been more than circuits and code — it’s about curiosity, impact, and creating technology that actually matters.

Now in his final semester of his master’s in computer engineering at San José State University (SJSU), Parth is looking back on a journey that’s taken him from Gujarat, India, to the heart of Silicon Valley — and forward toward a vision of a more sustainable tech future.

He’s the first in his family to pursue higher education in the U.S., and he started that journey with a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering in India. After graduation, he spent three years as a software engineer at Tata Consultancy Services, gaining real-world experience that still shapes how he works today.

“That experience gave me hands-on opportunities to work with clients and solve real-world technical problems; skills that continue to shape my approach as a graduate student.”

At SJSU, Parth has blended classroom learning with industry experience — most recently through an internship at Meta. There, he worked on the Ads Manager team, helping to optimize backend systems and improve the tools that power millions of businesses worldwide.

“Beyond the technical learning, I gained a lot of insight into how large-scale systems are built and maintained, and how much teamwork goes into creating products at this scale,” he explains.

The experience helped clarify the kind of career he wants to build: one rooted in innovation, scale, and global impact. But just as importantly, it showed him what kind of environment helps people thrive.

“I was given the space to take ownership of my project while having access to mentorship that helped me grow both technically and professionally … that balance of independence and support affirmed the importance of communication and problem solving.”

Looking ahead, Parth isn’t just focused on building what’s next — he’s thinking about how to build it better.

GTI Study Abroad Program

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 program website. The deadline to apply is October 31, 2025. Apply now and don’t miss this chance to expand your horizons!

Sean Aochi, Global Technology Institute Program, Taiwan 2025
Spending four weeks in Taiwan opened my eyes to a completely different culture. I loved exploring night markets, trying local foods, and visiting landmarks like Longshan Temple and the National Palace Museum. Collaborating on a robotic arm project with SJSU and Taiwanese students also taught me teamwork in a hands-on way.

“Overall, I think that this trip to Taiwan was incredible. The food was amazing, the views were beautiful, and most importantly, the people were some of the nicest I’ve ever met in my life.” –

Nicholas Arnett, Global Technology Institute Program, Taiwan 2025

Taiwan was the perfect blend of innovation and culture. Working on a robotic arm project helped me quickly learn C#, while exploring museums and markets gave me new perspectives on technology and life abroad.

“The study abroad trip to Taiwan was an incredible experience.”

Sairam Balaumar, Global Technology Institute Program, Taiwan 2025

My first solo trip abroad was filled with surprises, from building a quadcopter UAV to racing virtual bikes and tackling quirky food challenges. Exploring night markets, beaches, and temples gave me a real taste of Taiwanese culture. Beyond academics, the friendships and adventures made the experience unforgettable.

“I doubt any other trip I make can ever compare to this trip to Taiwan. I made some lifelong friends, some memories that will stay with me forever…”

Jordan Delos Reyes, Global Technology Institute Program, Taiwan 2025

In just three weeks, Taiwan changed how I view engineering, teamwork, and culture. Designing an AR drone simulation pushed me technically, while tea-making, aboriginal dances, and lab visits showed me Taiwan’s innovation and traditions.

“Reflecting on my three weeks in Taiwan, I’m incredibly grateful for the experiences, friendships, and lessons gained throughout the program.”

Evan Doerpinghaus,  Global Technology Institute Program, Taiwan 2025
What started as a low-cost study abroad opportunity turned into an invaluable life experience. The program blended hands-on labs, cultural excursions, and late-night adventures that brought classmates and locals closer together. From biomedical labs to temples, it gave me both academic growth and lasting friendships.

“Would I recommend this program to future students? Absolutely. It offered a unique chance to explore a new culture, connect with people from across the world, and step outside the bubble of everyday college life.”

Toby Lee, Global Technology Institute Program, Taiwan 2025

My time in Taiwan was full of challenges and surprises, from adjusting to dorm life to overcoming language barriers in the lab. Along the way, I built friendships and discovered skills I never expected.

“It was truly a trip I will never forget, from meeting friends, to the experiences we had, to the education we were able to receive.”

Karina Wong, Global Technology Institute Program, Taiwan 2025

At first, I worried about being far from home, but the GTI program proved to be an amazing opportunity. I built close friendships and explored Taiwanese culture, while gaining hands-on lab experience. Looking back, I’m grateful I took this leap because it gave me confidence and memories that will last forever.

“My experiences in this program may have actually inspired me to pursue study abroad programs more often, and even continue my Chinese studies so that I could keep in touch with my Taiwanese friends.”

Banafa – Startup Launches World’s First Hydrogen-Powered AI Data Center

In a bold move toward greener tech, Mountain View startup Edgecloud Link (ECL) has launched the world’s first hydrogen-powered AI data center, aiming to slash both emissions and water use. Founder Yuval Bachar says the system can eventually scale to gigawatt-level capacity, though he admits the current hydrogen infrastructure is still catching up.

SJSU professor Ahmed Banafa sees potential but urges caution: “Hydrogen isn’t risk-free — but data centers may be the safest place to test it at scale.” With global regulators eyeing stricter rules around AI’s massive energy demands, hydrogen may be the unexpected fuel that helps data centers go clean without going dark.

Read the full story

Makerspace Availability

The College of Engineering at San José State University has reopened its Makerspace—a hands-on, immersive lab designed to enhance student learning through real-world experience in areas like 3-D printing, welding, machining, and rapid prototyping. Closed for four years due to COVID-19, the space has been revitalized with new equipment and improved student access, thanks to the efforts of lead technician Mike Parker and his team. The Makerspace will be open to students currently enrolled in engineering classes. For more detailed information on how to get access, please refer to the Makerspace website. The Makerspace not only supports academic and project-based work but also aligns with the university’s sustainability goals. Plans are underway to introduce plastic recycling technology, allowing students to convert waste into usable filament for 3-D printing, making the space both innovative and environmentally responsible.

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.

Student Profile – Jerome Foronda

Jerome Foronda, a junior majoring in mechanical engineering at San José State University (SJSU), has always been drawn to the process of building and creating. Outside of the classroom, he enjoys hiking, watching basketball, working out at the gym, spending time with family and friends, attending church, listening to music, and building LEGO sets. These activities reflect his curiosity and hands-on approach; qualities that also drive his engineering journey.

Growing up in Fremont, California, Jerome is a proud Filipino American. While not the first in his family to attend college, he’s the first to pursue engineering. His passion for the field can be traced back to an elementary school field trip to NASA Ames Research Center, where he was captivated by the machines built for space exploration. This experience sparked his interest in how human innovation could push boundaries.

At Owens Design, Jerome gained industry experience as an engineering intern. He assembled semiconductor equipment, redlined engineering drawings, and collaborated with engineers and technicians to improve accuracy and efficiency in the manufacturing process. The internship sharpened his technical skills while giving him a deeper appreciation for precision in design. Jerome says “Seeing all the custom-made parts made me realize that manufacturing is where I can design anything, from small components to large machines, and that’s the career I’m aiming for.”

Beyond technical skills, Owens Design left an impression on Jerome through their supportive culture. “People at this company genuinely want to help, are eager to help each other, and they make sure you’re learning with the best intentions,” Jerome explains. The mentorship he received reinforced his belief that collaboration and openness are essential for growth in engineering.

Looking ahead, Jerome envisions himself as a mechanical engineer in the manufacturing industry. His long-term goal is to create designs and drawings that make production smooth, accurate, and efficient. A dream project he hopes to contribute to one day is the mechanical design of an Apple product, whose signature complexity inside a sleek device continues to inspire him.

Racing on Concrete: SJSU Concrete Canoe Club on the Rise

Concrete and canoes don’t usually go together—unless you’re part of San Jose State’s Concrete Canoe Club, a student-run engineering team turning cement into sleek, race-ready vessels. This past year, the club made waves at the Mid-Pacific Conference, earning the Most Innovative Design Award, placing second in two sprints, and placing third overall—a massive jump from seventh place just a year prior.

Led by civil engineering seniors Erica Hooper, Jesse Nguyen, and other team leaders, the club has grown from just eight members to over 25 active participants. “Last year, I was a paddler,” Jesse said. “Now I’m co-managing the whole team.” Erica, now the College of Engineering’s project manager, noted, “It’s a real chance for students to get hands-on experience that mirrors the real-world construction industry.”

The competition isn’t just about floating a concrete boat (yes, they float!). Teams must design a mix that’s buoyant—using materials like lightweight glass beads—and back it up with a technical report, proposal, and live presentation. Then comes the race: paddling their handcrafted canoe in events like men’s sprints and coed relays. “It’s like the Super Bowl for civil engineering students,” Jesse joked.

But behind the scenes, the work is intense. In the final week before the event, the team was pulling 12-hour shifts, sanding and staining the canoe late into the night—at one point, working by headlamp on a beach with their canoe inside a U-Haul. “I came back from a trip and found out we still weren’t done,” Erica laughed. “But seeing everyone stay up, tired but passionate, that’s what stuck with me.”

Their hard work paid off. The club not only walked away with multiple awards, but gained valuable experience in project management, budgeting, logistics, and teamwork: Skills that translate directly into the civil engineering industry. “We use real construction tools and software like Gantt charts within project management tools and scheduling apps,” Jesse said. “You start to think like a project manager, not just a student!”

One key advantage of the club is how inclusive and beginner-friendly it is. “We had members who didn’t even know how to use a power drill at first,” Erica said. “By the end, they were building full-scale display stands.” The team emphasizes mentorship, hands-on learning, and stepping outside your comfort zone. “If you’re nervous, just ask questions,” Jesse added. “That’s how I started.”

With ambitions rising and more members joining, the club is already planning for an even stronger showing next year. They’re also expanding alumni outreach and industry partnerships to support their growing goals.

Ready to build, race, and make real engineering impact? Join the SJSU Concrete Canoe Club! Whether you’re a seasoned builder or just curious to try something new, there’s a place for you on the team. No experience needed—just bring your energy and enthusiasm.
Email the club at sjsuconcretecanoe@gmail.com or drop by their meetings every Saturday at 10 a.m. in ENGR 136. Don’t just watch from the sidelines! Get in the canoe and be part of something unforgettable.

Banafa – Tech Expert: US Could Become No. 1 in Digital Currency

The current government administration’s crypto task force has released a major Digital Assets Report after months of research and 1,000+ industry meetings. The report calls for clear regulations to bring order to the chaotic crypto space, including rules for stablecoins, which are digital currencies tied to the U.S. dollar. Experts say this move could make crypto as mainstream as credit cards or Apple Pay. With the right oversight, the U.S. could soon lead the world in trusted, regulated digital money. Hear what professor Banafa has to say on the topic in his NTD News interview.

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.

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.

Watch the full story

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.

Monthly Theme – Disability

Courtesy of SOLIDWORKS

Disability Pride Month is celebrated every July. It is a time to honor the resilience, diversity, and contributions of this diverse community. For San José State University’s College of Engineering, it reminds us of the responsibility engineers carry in designing a more inclusive world. From accessible infrastructure to adaptive technologies, engineering decisions have a direct impact on the freedom, independence, and dignity of individuals with disabilities. However, Thomas Quiter, founder of Mobility Independence Foundation (MIF), believes that “The best way for society to be more inclusive of those with physical disabilities is to endow them with the ability to include themselves.”

For many with physical disabilities, access to reliable assistive technology isn’t just a convenience, it’s a gateway to independence. The Mobility Independence Foundation and adaptive engineering firm RapAdapt are tackling this challenge head-on by redefining what accessible design looks like. At the center of this movement are Thomas Quiter and Devin Hamilton, the president of RapAdapt. Both bring personal experience to the engineering table: Quiter was once confined to his apartment for five years due to a lack of proper mobility equipment, while Hamilton, who has cerebral palsy, grew up modifying farm equipment with his father to work with his power chair. Now, as a mechanical engineer, Hamilton leads the creation of custom devices for users with real-world needs.

RapAdapt’s design philosophy begins with empathy and ends with innovation. Their process starts by understanding each client’s goals and limitations. Then uses computer-aided design (CAD), 3D printing, and computer numerical control (CNC) machining to prototype practical, durable solutions. Their collaboration with the MIF aims to make open-source, modular mobility devices accessible to anyone with basic tools and mechanical knowledge, empowering not only users but also communities.

With tools like SOLIDWORKS at the core of their development process, the team is creating not just equipment, but laying the blueprints for inclusive engineering. Their work reminds us that true innovation includes everyone, and that the future of engineering must be designed with and for those it serves.

RapAdapt Helps Disabled Reclaim Independence Through Adaptive Innovation

A Day in the Life of a Cybersecurity Advisor: Scott Alford’s Mission to Empower the Future

Cybersecurity camp event organizer, including master students, professors KaiKai Liu and Amith Kamath Belman, guest speaker Scott Alford, and high school student attendees.

In a recent weeklong cybersecurity and artificial intelligence (AI) camp, over 40 high school students got a deep dive into what it takes to stop a hacker and how AI can be beneficial in the continuing effort to keep computer systems safe. During the camp, Scott Alford, a member of the Department of Homeland Security’s cybersecurity team, gave some insight into the importance of making young people aware of the threats and how to protect themselves.

Based in Silicon Valley, Scott works at the intersection of national infrastructure, cyber defense, and education. As a cybersecurity advisor affiliated with Cisco and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), his role is to strengthen both public and private sector resilience against digital and physical threats. His work spans a wide array of critical infrastructure — from K-12 education and energy to water and emergency services — ensuring stakeholders across sectors have access to the tools and federal resources they need to stay secure.

In Scott’s day-to-day, this mission means direct engagement. He often travels to regions like Northern California, where infrastructure stakeholders need help understanding their cybersecurity risks. He conducts vulnerability assessments, offers tailored guidance, and helps teams fortify their defenses — all while bridging the gap between high-level federal tools and on-the-ground realities. Many of these organizations lack the budget or technical expertise to fully secure their systems, making Scott’s role as an advisor and educator all the more vital.

Scott’s journey into cybersecurity is rooted in curiosity, creativity, and a love for problem-solving. “I love puzzles, systems, adventure,” he says. With no formal cybersecurity path available when he was young, Scott carved his own way. He describes being “cash poor but time rich” in his youth — spending that time exploring the digital world, learning through experimentation, and cultivating a deep appreciation for learning and discovery.

Now, he passes that passion on to the next generation. Whether speaking at high schools or mentoring future cyber professionals, Scott sees himself in the young minds he meets — curious, resource-limited students trying to find their place in a field that’s still evolving. His message is simple but powerful: cybersecurity is an adventure. It’s not reserved for people with computer science degrees or elite backgrounds. “Creativity, patience, and a willingness to explore — those are the traits that matter most,” he says.

Scott is also deeply aware of the structural challenges that limit cyber education. Most K-12 schools lack funding or guidance for cybersecurity programs, and students often don’t know how to pursue their interests. “You don’t need a computer science degree to join cybersecurity,” Scott emphasizes. “But many well-intentioned educators still believe you do.” He actively works to dismantle these myths and promote inclusivity in the field.

He’s particularly excited about the convergence of cybersecurity, artificial intelligence (AI), and quantum computing — the future of tech innovation. “We don’t yet have engineers fluent in all three,” he says. “But the next generation will define that intersection.” While AI is rapidly lowering the barrier to entry, quantum complexity will require new forms of collaboration and education.

Scott champions tools like Replit — platforms that empower even non-technical users to build web apps, explore AI, and express themselves online. Whether it’s a student, a musician, or his own grandmother selling homemade salsa, Scott believes that this democratization of technology is key to the future. “Cyber isn’t just for Silicon Valley anymore. It’s for everyone — from farmers to artists.”

For Scott, cybersecurity is more than a job. It’s a creative outlet, a community, and a lifelong adventure.

Spartan Racing Contest

The Spartan Racing team gave an extraordinary performance at the 2025 Formula SAE Electric competition in Michigan, earning an impressive 2nd place overall with the team’s SR-16 vehicle. The weeklong event tested not just the technical performance of their electric vehicle, but also the team’s adaptability, collaboration, and endurance in the face of dynamic challenges both on and off the track.

The competition began on a high note, with the team passing the Charger and Accumulator Tech inspections on the first attempt. However, Michigan’s weather brought sudden storms that temporarily halted events and closed the site. While the delay was initially frustrating, it unexpectedly became a highlight for many. Sheltering with other teams inside the tech garages turned into a valuable opportunity for cross-team connection. Will Kittinger, President and Business Lead for 2025-2026, said, “Being in there allowed us to socialize, talk about everything from cars to designs and how the competition was going.”

After successfully completing the Design and Cost events on the third day, the team advanced through final tech inspections and into dynamic events, where their vehicle proved both fast and reliable. The team placed in the top tier across multiple categories and capped off the competition with a 1st place finish in Endurance.

In the end, the team returns home with:

• 1st in Endurance (59.829s)
• 2nd Overall
• 4th in Cost
• 5th in Autocross (46.358s)
• 9th in Acceleration (4.244s)
• 11th in Skidpad (5.218s)
• 13th in Business
• Design Finalist

As the team reflects on its success and the challenges it overcame, especially the unpredictable weather, they’re already setting ambitious goals for next year. With sights set on a Design win and an overall title, Spartan Racing is ready to push the boundaries of design even further. The College of Engineering applauds the entire team for representing SJSU with technical brilliance, collaborative spirit, and true Spartan resilience.

Fedbridge

When federal layoffs turned heads earlier this year, four first-year grad students—Saim Sheikh, Khanh Chung, Dat Tri Tat, and Rusheek Ratna Reddy Gade—decided to stop watching and start pivoting. What began as a routine class assignment quickly turned into a mission to close the growing skills gap between outdated government roles and today’s fast-moving private sector. FedBridge, an artificial intelligence (AI) powered career reboot tool designed to help thousands of displaced federal workers, was developed.

With guidance from Professor Rakesh Ranjan, an IBM manager and SJSU alum known for his no-nonsense motto, “demo or die,” the team created a platform that does more than polish resumes. FedBridge delivers personalized job matches, certification pathways, and AI-driven interview prep to help federal employees land modern roles with confidence.

Curious how four students turned a classroom challenge into a real-world impact? Meet the minds behind FedBridge and the tool rewriting the future of public-sector careers.

Learn more about the application.

Zoox opens 1st-of-its-kind robotaxi production facility in Bay Area – featuring Prof. Ahmed Banafa

Amazon-owned Zoox has opened its groundbreaking Hayward factory, the first facility in the U.S. specifically engineered for robotaxi production. Designed to assemble over 10,000 fully autonomous, steering wheel–free vehicles annually, the plant will support initial operations launching in Las Vegas later this year, with San Francisco service planned for 2026. Professor Ahmed Banafa highlights the regional impact: “That is good for us here in the Bay Area, that’s more jobs, more manufacturing facilities, and an opportunity to keep leading this world in this technology.”

Watch or read the full story from ABC7

Pride Month

Courtesy of the University of Michigan Engineering, photo taken by Joseph Xu

In honor of Pride Month, the College of Engineering proudly celebrates the legacy of Lynn Ann Conway, a hidden spark and trailblazing pioneer in the computer science industry. Her courage as a trans woman engineer broke barriers and opened doors for generations to come.

Born in 1938 in Mount Vernon, New York, she pursued electrical engineering at MIT before transferring to Columbia University, where she earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees. Her early career started at IBM in 1964, where she invented generalized dynamic instruction handling, a technique that improves computer processing performance. However, after revealing to her employer her plans to undergo gender affirming surgery, Conway was fired. Decades later, in 2020, IBM formally apologized and honored her with the IBM Lifetime Achievement Award for her contributions.

After her transition, Conway joined Xerox PARC in 1973.  While working there, she and Carver Mead co-developed Very Large Scale Integration (VLSI), a methodology that revolutionized silicon chip design and helped launch the field of Electronic Design Automation (EDA). She did this despite starting her career without any experience in microelectronics. Conway later joined the University of Michigan, where she served as a professor and Associate Dean of Engineering, further shaping the future of STEM education until her retirement.

It wasn’t until the 2000s that Conway publicly shared her story through her personal website, offering insight into her journey and providing educational resources on gender identity. Her openness inspired media coverage and helped countless individuals navigate their own paths with greater understanding and hope.

Lynn Conway’s life is a story of intellectual brilliance, unwavering courage, and authenticity. As we celebrate Pride Month, let us honor Lynn not just for her technical genius but for her bravery and resilience. Her legacy continues to inspire a new generation of engineers to think differently, live authentically, and shape a world where everyone can thrive.

Lynn passed away on June 9, 2024, at the age of 86. Learn more about the legacy she left behind.

From Wrenches to Rockets: Gavilan Alum Soars into SJSU’s Prestigious Aerospace Engineering Program

Image Courtesy of the Morgan Hill Times

Esthefani Montelon’s journey through Gavilan College’s Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) program shows how hands-on technical training can be a powerful springboard to higher academic and career success. Initially drawn to the program for its practical focus, Montelon quickly discovered her passion for aviation could go far beyond aircraft maintenance. Her time at Gavilan not only gave her valuable mechanical skills but also the confidence to aim higher.

After completing the rigorous A&P curriculum, she made the pivotal decision to pursue a four-year aerospace engineering degree at San Jose State University. By strategically using online courses to complete her general education requirements, she fast-tracked her transfer and stood out among peers thanks to her unique blend of mechanical expertise and academic knowledge.

Montelon’s A&P background directly contributed to her success in competitive internships at NASA and Pratt & Whitney, where her hands-on experience gave her a significant edge over traditional engineering students. Her story illustrates the value of combining vocational training with a four-year degree and how starting at a community college like Gavilan can open doors to elite opportunities in aerospace and beyond. Read the full article at the Morgan Hill Times.

Silicon Valley cities hit with records requests for residents’ emails to train controversial AI – featuring Prof. Ahmed Banafa

A Mountain View company, GovernmentGPT, is raising eyebrows after filing dozens of public records requests across the Bay Area to collect residents’ emails to local officials, with the goal of training AI tools like “CivicVoice” to summarize public sentiment. While the company claims it’s promoting civic efficiency, experts warn the move blurs ethical lines. Professor Ahmed Banafa is a Milpitas resident, expressing concerns over the potential use of his personal emails without consent, emphasizing, “It’s freedom of information, not freedom of selling my data.”

Read the full story

June 24th Events

• 881: Sir William Huggins captured the first photographic spectrum of a comet using advanced spectroscopic and photographic techniques, marking a major achievement in astrophotography and spectroscopy.
• 1935: The San Francisco tower of the Golden Gate Bridge finished construction.
• 1983: NASA’s Space Shuttle Challenger (STS-7) returned to Earth. Carrying Sally Ride, making her the first American woman to go to space.
• 2010: Apple’s iPhone 4th generation came out.