50 Stories for 50 Years of SHPE
Each week we are releasing an episode featuring the “origin story” of a defining SHPE member. Many of them are familiar friends who have been with us since the beginning. Some of them are new names who have more recently found their home with SHPE. But all of them are a testament to the vibrancy and resilience that makes our Familia an enduring force in the world of STEM and beyond. We can’t wait for you to hear them!
Featuring
SHPE Leaders
SHPE Supporters
SHPE Members
SHPE Allies
May
Oscar Marquina
Strategy and Operations | Diversity Equity and Inclusion | Angel Investing
Oscar Marquina
Oscar's path to success took a unique turn as he discovered SHPE after graduating with a Mechanical Engineering degree from Utah State University. Born in Venezuela and migrating to the US at 13, Oscar faced the challenges of being a DACA student and navigating the STEM. However, his encounter with SHPE transformed his life, opening doors to opportunities previously thought unattainable.
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April
Elio Morillo
Spacecraft Systems Leader | Keynote Speaker | Author
Elio Morillo
Delving into Elio's personal story, we learn about his migration from Ecuador at a young age, facing economic and domestic challenges, to eventually finding a new home and opportunities in the United States. Elio's narrative is a testament to determination, resilience, and the power of community support, particularly highlighted through his involvement with SHIP and his impactful work with NASA's Mars 2020 mission and the Perseverance rover.
Yuliana Porras-Mendoza
ONE Water Practice Leader at Garver
Yuliana Porras-Mendoza
Yuliana, shares her inspiring path from growing up on the border of Juarez and El Paso to becoming a seasoned chemical engineer. Despite facing challenges, Yuliana discovered her passion for STEM and the power of math as a bridge between two worlds. Her determination led her to the Colorado School of Mines, where she encountered SHPE and dedicated herself to empowering women and students of color in the field.
Ismael Mendoza
Research Engineer at National Renewable Energy Laboratory
Ismael Mendoza
Graduating with a degree in Electrical Engineering, Ismael's career led him to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, where he now serves as a subject matter expert and technical advisor for Latin American countries undergoing energy transitions or natural disasters. His dedication to SHPE's mission and his insights into the advantages of Hispanic representation in STEM make him a true asset to our organization.
Heidy Arriola
Regional Account Manager at Veolia Water Technologies & Solutions
Heidy Arriola
Heidy's story unfolds as she shares her transformative experience at UCLA, where she discovered SHPE and found a profound sense of belonging at her first Convention. Central to her narrative is the concept of mentorship, which she views as more than just a one-on-one relationship but as a community of supporters guiding personal and professional growth.
March
Jose Villanueva
Hybrid Data Management Technical Specialist at IBM
Jose Villanueva
Jose's journey into STEM is anything but ordinary. Born in Bolivia, with STEM in his DNA, he shares his unique path guided by influential mentors and fueled by a passion for Industrial Engineering. From the University of Central Florida to becoming a content creator, Jose's story is one of resilience and community-building. We delve into topics ranging from artificial intelligence to the creation of content that resonates globally with the Hispanic community.
Jay Flores
Global STEM Ambassador | Founder of Invent The Change
Jay Flores
With appearances on ESPN, PBS, and Telemundo, and his adventurous run on American Ninja Warrior, Jay Flores is synonymous with SHPE advocacy. Through his expertise, Jay shares invaluable advice for young engineers and scientists, drawing from his own experiences and challenges. From his regret over choosing mechanical engineering over chemical, to the pivotal leadership role he embraced in SHPE that shaped his career, Jay's insights resonate deeply with listeners.
Dr. Dayna Martinez
Senior Director, Research and Impact at SHPE.
Dr. Dayna Martinez
Dr. Martinez's expertise in data analysis drives SHPE's program development and national advocacy efforts. From spearheading innovative projects like Equipando Padres and Future Grads to overseeing the Faculty Development Symposium, she plays a pivotal role in shaping SHPE's impact. But her connection with SHPE goes beyond her current role; her journey with the organization predates her tenure as staff, offering unique insights into its evolution.
Adrian Cires
Computer Science Undergraduate at the University of Maryland
Adrian Cires
Despite facing adversity, Adrian's accidental entry into STEM marked a pivotal moment where he discovered his self-agency and defied expectations. As the Vice-President of Corporate Affairs for his SHPE Chapter, Adrian shares practical insights into securing sponsorships and leading with purpose.
February
Wendy Haro
Software Quality Assurance Manager at WebPT
Wendy Haro
Tune in to discover Wendy's inspiring path from South Central to becoming a software engineer, the eye-opening experiences at her first SHPE Convention, and why she's the reason we all know and love the regional chants.
Diana Gomez
Director of District 6
at Caltrans
Diana Gomez
Diana's remarkable journey in SHPE has left an indelible mark on the organization and the STEM community. Join us as Diana shares her incredible story, from becoming a member in 1982 to navigating through significant leadership roles, awards, and even death threats. Her experiences have played a crucial role in shaping SHPE's trajectory over the last 50 years.
Miguel Ramos
Advisor & Co-founder
at Limble
Miguel Ramos
Discover how Miguel's early leadership roles within SHPE, from chapter VP to President, equipped him with the soft skills and confidence to pursue his remarkable career. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or seeking motivation, Miguel's interview is a treasure trove of advice that will leave you inspired and informed.
Melanie Weber
Flight Operations Engineer at Blue Origin |
SHPE National Board of Directors
Melanie Weber
Melanie discusses overcoming imposter syndrome, her pivotal role in space flight projects, and the impact of SHPE on her professional success. She's not just changing the trajectory of space flight but is also a source of inspiration, giving back and encouraging others to overcome obstacles.
January
Julio Grapa
Director at Procter & Gamble | Innovation, Quality, Lab Services
Julio Grapa
In our first episode, we explore Julio Grapa's life, a notable SHPE member and Rodrigo Garcia Founder's Award recipient. We cover his childhood, over 30 years with SHPE, career, and brave fight against cancer. Expect an emotional journey.
Miguel Alemañy
Interim SHPE CEO
Miguel Alemañy
From his initial impressions as a professional member to the intricate history and transformation of SHPE as an organization, Miguel offers invaluable insights and candid reflections.
Emily Anne Vargas
National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellow
Emily Anne Vargas
Listen to this spotlight of Emily Anne Vargas, a renowned Material Science Engineering Ph.D. candidate at USC and former Vice-Chair of SHPE's National Board of Directors.
Maya Morales Garcias
Chief Program Officer at
Beyond100K
Maya Morales Garcia
Maya, a dynamic force and STEM advocate, shares her unique perspective on ending the STEM teacher shortage in the United States. Learn about her commitment to connecting educators with the communities they serve and the transformative power of teaching.