SHPE Out Loud: Leading Hispanics in STEM

In this episode of SHPE Out Loud, Genevieve Gandara, a mechanical engineering student at Caltech soon heading to Stanford, shares her inspiring journey in STEM. From robotics teams in her school years to navigating the rigorous academics at Caltech, Genevieve opens up about the importance of community, resilience, and advocacy. She discusses confronting bias, finding her passion in sustainable design, and her experiences with SHPE,...

In this episode of SHPE Out Loud, we meet Angelica Gonzales, a SHPE Scholar and mechanical engineering student at Ventura College. Angelica shares how she’s balancing her studies, leadership roles, and work while preparing to transfer to a four-year university. As a first-generation college student, she talks about what drives her, the support she’s found through SHPE, and how she stays focused on her long-term goals. Her story is ...

In this episode of SHPE Out Loud, we sit down with Abby Bravo, a SHPE Scholar who shares her journey of learning to let go of perfection and finding her own path in STEM. From feeling the pressure to always be “the perfect student” to figuring out her place at the University of Houston, Abby opens up about her mentors, family, and the moments that made her realize it’s okay to be honest about the struggles. Her story is a reminder ...

In this episode of SHPE Out Loud, we meet Matteo Lopez, a senior at Santa Clara University who shares his journey from a passion for aviation and mechanical engineering to discovering economics as his true calling. Matteo opens up about his experience growing up near San Francisco, adjusting to college life, and overcoming imposter syndrome. He reflects on the importance of being flexible and open-minded when your original plans sh...

In this episode of SHPE Out Loud, we hear from Sebastian Guevara, a SHPE Scholar studying at Carnegie Mellon University. Sebastian shares his experiences growing up in Houston, and navigating college life as a first-generation student. He opens up about facing imposter syndrome, the decision to switch majors, and the importance of learning to ask for help. His story is relatable, honest, and offers some great insight for anyone cur...

In this episode of SHPE Out Loud, we sit down with Melissa Villegas Drake, a SHPE lifetime member whose journey with the organization began in the 80s. From her early days as a student leader to her time on the National Board, Melissa has helped shape SHPE into the powerful network it is today. She reflects on overcoming self-doubt, leading with purpose, and how SHPE gave her the tools and the community to thrive in STEM and beyond...

In this inspiring episode of SHPE Out Loud, scholarship recipient Juan Diaz opens up about his unique journey from leaving high school at sixteen to support his newborn son, to returning years later and pursuing his dream of becoming a mechanical engineer. Juan talks about the challenges he faced, the mentors who guided him, and the unwavering motivation he draws from his family. His story is a powerful reminder that it’s never too...

Episode Description:

In the second and final installment of our two-part finale, we continue our conversation with Will Davis, Board Chair of SHPE, to explore his leadership roles within the organization and his reactions to the inspiring journeys shared throughout our “50 Stories for 50 Years” series. Will reflects on how these personal accounts have shaped his perspective and discusses the exciting path forward for SHPE as we loo...

In the first installment of our two-part finale for the “50 Stories for 50 Years” series, we introduce Will Davis, SHPE’s Board Chair and a dedicated champion of Latino excellence in STEM. In this episode, Will reveals how a childhood filled with tinkering and creativity ignited his passion for engineering—ultimately leading him to a remarkable career at NASA.

Listen in as Will shares the defining moments of his early life, his gro...

In the 49th episode of our “50 Stories for 50 Years” series, we feature Suzanna Valdez Wolfe, a dedicated leader and the CEO of SHPE. Born and raised in El Paso, Texas, Suzanna’s passion for serving her community has guided her journey—from her formative years on the U.S.-Mexico border to shaping public policy in Washington, DC, and now spearheading SHPE’s mission.

Suzanna shares how her family’s emphasis on service influenced her ...

In the 48th episode of our “50 Stories for 50 Years” series, we feature the inspiring journey of Sofia Murillo Sánchez, a computer science specialist in AI and machine learning from Southern Methodist University. Born in Bogotá, Colombia, and raised in a multicultural environment, Sofia navigated the challenges of a dual identity while excelling in STEM.

Sofia shares her experiences overcoming bullying, embracing her unique cultura...

In the 46th episode of our “50 Stories for 50 Years” series, we spotlight the inspiring journey of Ana Avilés Vargas, a first-generation immigrant who forged her own path into biomedical engineering. Facing early obstacles—from navigating the U.S. education system to discovering her passion for neuroscience—Ana demonstrates the power of determination, mentorship, and community support.

In this episode, Ana candidly shares how famil...

In the 45th episode of our “50 Stories for 50 Years” series, we spotlight the inspiring journey of Jorge Moreno Acosta, a passionate chemical engineering student and dedicated SHPE leader who has made significant strides both academically and within our organization.

As a first-generation college student from a low-income background, Jorge faced numerous challenges on his path to higher education. Growing up in San Antonio, Texas, ...

In the 44th episode of our “50 Stories for 50 Years” series, we spotlight the inspiring journey of Serafín Fernández, a civil engineer and dedicated SHPE member whose career exemplifies community advocacy and the transformative power of education.

From immigrating to the United States at the age of eight and growing up in East Chicago, Indiana, Serafín became the first in his family to graduate from college. His story is filled wit...

In the 43rd episode of our “50 Stories for 50 Years” series, we spotlight the inspiring journey of Leo Soto, a mechanical engineer at Boeing and a dedicated member of SHPE. Leo’s path is a testament to resilience, hard work, and the transformative power of mentorship.

From starting his education at a community college to working on groundbreaking aerospace projects, Leo’s story is filled with determination and pivotal moments that ...

In the 42nd episode of our “50 Stories for 50 Years” series, we feature the inspiring journey of Maritza Martinez, a leader, innovator, and advocate in STEM. Maritza’s career is a testament to resilience, vision, and dedication. From her early beginnings to becoming a trailblazer in her field, Maritza has overcome challenges, broken barriers, and made a lasting impact within her community and beyond.

Join us as we dive into Maritza...

In this heartwarming episode of SHPE Out Loud, we sit down with the Camacho family—an inspiring group of women making their mark in engineering. Maria Camacho and her daughters, Ana Sofia, Eugenia, and Elisa, share their personal journeys as Hispanic women navigating the world of STEM. From overcoming challenges to achieving professional success, the Camachos’ story highlights the power of family, resilience, and the support of SHP...

In this episode of SHPE Out Loud, we celebrate the incredible journey of Monica Morales, a water resources engineer at Jacobs who embodies resilience, determination, and the power of community. Raised in Reno, Nevada, Monica’s path led her to a successful career in engineering, with stops in various cities along the way. Her passion for STEM, commitment to outreach, and unique ability to merge art with engineering have made her a t...

In this episode of SHPE Out Loud, we’re excited to share the inspiring journey of Nora Rincon, a mechanical engineer at General Motors and dedicated member of SHPE. Originally from Durango, Mexico, Nora’s story is one of determination, resilience, and the power of community. As a first-generation college graduate, she overcame numerous challenges on her path to a successful career in STEM.

Join us as Nora talks about her experience...