Ask not what your SHPE familia can do for you – ask what you can do for your SHPE familia! Join the leadership team and make an impact at the highest levels of the organization. Your resume will thank you too!
Seize the Moment
If you want to be in a position that cultivates leadership skills, encourages ownership, and presents invaluable networking opportunities, now is your chance to take a leadership role at SHPE.
Every spring, SHPE holds a nationwide election to determine the new, volunteer members of the National Board of Directors (NBOD) and the regional leadership. The NBOD creates the vision and manages the organization’s strategy while the regional leadership supports staff with operations like guiding the chapters. Do not hesitate to become a candidate in this year’s elections!
Opportunities
The NBOD has three professional positions that are filled via election. Professional positions are staggered in the following pattern, to preserve continuity.
In odd-numbered years (2025, 2027, etc.), the following positions open for office:
- Two National Board Of Directors members
- Regional Vice Presidents for Regions 1, 3, 5, and 7
In even-numbered years (2026, 2028, etc), the following positions open for office:
- One National Board Of Directors member
- Regional Vice Presidents for Regions 2, 4, and 6
The above professional positions have two-year terms which begin on July 1st.
Every year, three student members are elected to the NBOD:
- Two National Board of Directors members – Undergraduate
- One National Board of Directors members – Graduate
Every year, fourteen student positions are open at a regional level:
- Seven Regional Graduate Representatives
- Seven Regional Student Representatives
The above student positions have one-year terms which begin on July 1st.
The sole purpose of the regional leadership is to support, at the local level, the operationalization of SHPE’s mission and purpose. Each region’s leadership shall be made up of, at a minimum, the following four positions. Any additional positions are at the discretion of the Regional Vice President.
The Regional Leadership Team provides proactive leadership coaching to chapters and membership including SHPE leadership. Coaching, mentoring, and support are essential to maintaining and growing healthy chapters and members.
REGIONAL VICE PRESIDENTS (RVP)
- Represent the professional membership and lead the regional team for their respective region
- Communicate business to the region’s professional chapters and communicate business from them to the regional team and the member representative to the SHPE staff
REGIONAL GRADUATE REPRESENTATIVE (RGR)
- Represent the region’s graduate student membership
- Communicate business to the regional student chapters and communicate business from them to the student assembly and regional team
REGIONAL STUDENT REPRESENTATIVE (RSR)
- Represent the region’s undergraduate student membership
- Communicate business to the regional student chapters and communicate business from them to the student assembly and regional team
REGIONAL JUNIOR REPRESENTATIVE (RJR)
- Be a STEM professional or educator and will represent the junior membership within a region
- Communicate business to the junior chapter advisors
- Work with the Regional team and communicate with the Regional Vice President
Nominee Checklist
Professional Nominees
- Hi-res professional photo (.jpg or .png)
- Biography (300-word count limit)
- Nomination petition with 5 professional member signatures
- NOTE: Membership ID from members residing in the region are required for regional positions.
- Resume
- Candidate Acknowledgement Agreement
Graduate Student Nominees
- Hi-res professional photo (.jpg or .png)
- Biography (300-word count limit)
- Nomination petition with 5 graduate student member signatures
- NOTE: Membership ID from members residing in the region are required for regional positions.
- Transcripts (official or unofficial) with a 3.25 GPA minimum
- Resume
- Candidate Acknowledgement Agreement
Undergraduate Student Nominees
- Hi-res professional photo (.jpg or .png)
- Biography (300-word count limit)
- Nomination petition with 5 undergraduate student member signatures
- NOTE: Membership ID from members residing in the region are required for regional positions.
- Transcripts (official or unofficial) with a 3.0 GPA minimum
- Resume
- Candidate Acknowledgement Agreement
Nominee Eligibility
To vote you must be a current member by February 15. And to be eligible for an elected position you must be a current member by March 15. So renew now if your membership is expired or set to expire on or before May 15
Whatever member category you are (ex. student, graduate, professional) on February 15 determines the positions you’re eligible for and the voting rights you have. If your status has changed since you joined, please be sure to make that update when you renew. Or you can email [email protected] to assign the correct member category.
Lifetime Members
If you’re a lifetime member and your membership category has changed (ex. student to graduate, graduate to professional, or student to professional), please email [email protected] before February 15 to update your profile and associated voting privileges.
Professional Nominees
- Must be a professional member in good standing by February 15
- For regional positions, must have resided in the region for the last 6 months
- Must have a Bachelor’s degree and 6 months of full-time work experience, OR graduate studies prior to start of term
Graduate Nominees
- Must be a graduate member in good standing by February 15
- Must have a 3.25/4.0 GPA
- Must have at least 1 more fall + spring semester before graduation
- For regional positions, must be enrolled at a university within the region
- Graduating undergraduate members wishing to run for a Graduate position are conditionally eligible to run. Evidence of graduate student standing shall be provided prior to start of term
Undergraduate Nominees
- Must be an undergraduate member in good standing by February 15
- Must have a 3.0/4.0 GPA
- Must have at least 1 more fall + spring semester before graduation
- For regional positions, must be enrolled at a university within the region
Elections Timeline
February 15: The membership payment is due to be eligible to nominate, vote or run for office.
March 15: Nominations submittal deadline at 11:59 pm PDT
April 3: Candidates may begin campaigning
April 8: Ballots go out and voting begins at 12:01 am PDT
April 30: Voting concludes at 12:01 am PDT
May 16: Election Results Announced
Election Resources
2026 Election Winners
In accordance with SHPE Bylaws and National Elections Policy, winners are those who meet these requirements:
- Must receive the most votes, and,
- Must receive 5% or more of the eligible votes for their race.
Any races not meeting these requirements or ending in a tie are declared invalid and the position will remain vacant until filled through appointment by the National Board of Directors.
Races that end without any nominees will be filled through appointment by the Board.
National Board of Directors: Professional
Born in Lima, Peru, Yesenia Avellaneda moved to the United States at the age of 13, learning what it means to navigate new systems, find her footing, and represent more than just herself. That experience never left her. It became the lens through which she leads, and the reason SHPE has always felt like home.
Yesenia is a Global Operations NPI Project Manager at Abbott Diabetes Care, leading new product introduction initiatives across the diabetes portfolio. With four years of industry experience, she is an Abbott Top 40 honoree and member of its highly selective Global Development Program — recognitions that reflect her technical excellence and leadership potential. She holds a B.S. in Biology and Human Physiology from the University of Oregon and an M.S. in Biomedical Engineering from the University of Portland.
She is also an entrepreneur at heart. She founded a real estate business during her gap years and co-founded a trucking and construction company with her father, ventures that taught her what no classroom could: how to lead through uncertainty and build something from nothing.
Her SHPE journey mirrors her life, marked by growth, service, and a deep sense of responsibility. She served as Graduate Chapter Leader at the University of Portland, contributed to the Region 1 committee, and became President of the Twin Cities Professional Chapter. Her story came full circle at the Orlando National Convention, the same stage where she was hired into her career, and where she now returns as a leader and Abbott recruiter, investing in engineers who remind her of herself.
As Regional Vice President for Region 6, she oversees nine states and has built a region defined by bold impact. Her National Convention Readiness Summits expanded from one state to four, reaching nearly 300 students. Her Spring Forward conference grew from a one-day to a two-day experience. Together with her team, she has secured nearly $40,000 in sponsorships and impacted more than 2,000 students in the last 2 years.
SHPE changed Yesenia’s life. It gave her a familia, opened doors she did not know existed, and showed her what it means to belong to something bigger than yourself. She runs for the National Board to pay that forward so that every SHPE members, who walks into their first SHPE convention feels what she felt: that this community was built for them.
Why are you running for SHPE elected office and what do you hope to accomplish in this position?
I am running because SHPE changed my life. It gave me a familia, opened doors I did not know existed, and shaped who I am today. SHPE hired me at my first National Convention and never stopped investing in me, and I have spent years giving that back as a chapter leader, chapter president, and Regional Vice President impacting more than 2,000 students. Now I am ready for the national stage. As Professional NBOD, I will strengthen professional chapters, close the gap between regional and national resources, and ensure every member feels the belonging that changed everything for me.
Describe your prior and current involvement with SHPE.
In January 2020, past RVP1 Ernesto Zurita introduced me to SHPE, and from that moment, I knew this organization would shape my path. As a pre-med student who switched to a graduate degree in engineering, I once questioned whether I belonged in STEM at all. SHPE answered that question. In 2021, I attended my first National Convention, where Abbott hired me on the spot, a moment that changed everything. I grew from Graduate Chapter Leader and Region 1 Graduate committee member, to Twin Cities Professional Chapter President, returning to NILA every year since 2022 and the National Convention since 2021, giving back what was once given to me. Today, as Regional Vice President for Region 6, I lead with one purpose: to inspire others just as Ernesto once inspired me.
How have your prior life experiences prepared you for this role?
Moving to the United States at 13 with a new language, a new culture, and an unshakeable drive taught me the most important leadership skill there is — resilience. Being a first-generation professional meant learning every system without a roadmap, which built my instinct for problem-solving and advocacy. Co-founding a business with my father and launching my own real estate venture sharpened my ability to lead through uncertainty and build from nothing. Being fluent in three languages and navigating multiple cultures daily makes me a bridge-builder by nature. At Abbott, managing complex global programs has prepared me to operate at scale, with clarity, accountability, and heart. Every chapter of my life has prepared me to show up for this community, not just as a Professional NBOD, but as someone who understands what is at stake for every Latina(o) engineer finding their way.
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National Board of Directors: Graduate
No candidate met the requirements to win; therefore, the position remains vacant until filled with a Board-approved appointee.
My name is Nazirah Farach Rojo, and I am a fourth-year PhD student in Mechanical Engineering at the University of Virginia (UVA). I currently serve as the Region 4 Regional Graduate Representative (RGR) and am honored to run for SHPE Graduate Representative on the National Board of Directors (NBOD).
My journey with SHPE began in 2018 as an undergraduate student searching for community and mentorship. Over time, SHPE became much more than an organization to me. SHPE became a place where I learned how to lead, uplift others, and advocate for our community. At the University of Virginia, I served as Vice President of the SHPE chapter, and at the regional level I served as Mid-Atlantic Sub-Regional Representative and R4 Marketing Director.
When I began graduate school, I joined the Region 4 Regional Graduate Leadership Committee (RGLC) and later had the privilege of being elected the as Region 4 Graduate Representative for the past two terms. In this role, I have worked closely with graduate leaders across the region to create programming that supports graduate students academically, professionally, and personally.
Together with the Region 4 RGLC, we developed events that addressed real graduate student needs—from navigating immigration regulations and improving research communication to exploring graduate school pathways and funding opportunities. One highlight was launching the first RGR-led Graduate Student Convention Readiness Workshop ahead of the 2024 SHPE National Convention in Anaheim, where graduate students connected with recruiters and learned how to navigate National Convention. Building on its success, we hosted the second annual workshop ahead of the 2025 convention in Philadelphia.
As RGR 4 and being part of the NGC for the past two years, I have had the privilege of listening to and learning from graduate students across many universities and backgrounds. These experiences have helped me better understand the challenges graduate students face and the support they seek from SHPE. If elected as the Graduate Representative to the National Board of Directors, I hope to continue advocating for graduate students by strengthening communication between regions, supporting the work of Regional Graduate Representatives, and ensuring graduate perspectives are represented in national discussions and initiatives.
Why are you running for SHPE elected office and what do you hope to accomplish in this position?
Being elected as the Graduate Representative on the National Board of Directors will allow me to continue strengthening graduate representation and connection across the SHPE familia. Throughout my two terms as RGR I have listened and learned the needs of graduate students across multiple regions. With this knowledge and experience I hope to advocate for graduate perspectives in SHPE’s national initiatives, strengthen collaboration among Regional Graduate Representatives, and support the growing graduate community by uplifting emerging leaders and empowering members to increase impact at the local, regional and national level.
Describe your prior and current involvement with SHPE.
My SHPE journey began in 2018 as an undergraduate at the University of Virginia, where I served as Vice President of the SHPE chapter. At the regional level, as an undergraduate student I served as the Mid-Atlantic Sub-Regional Representative and Regional Marketing Director. As a graduate student, I joined the Region 4 Regional Graduate Leadership Committee from ’22 – ’24, helped in graduate track for 2023 National Convention, and I have served the past two terms as Region 4 Graduate Representative, leading initiatives that support graduate student engagement and professional development.
How have your prior life experiences prepared you for this role?
I was raised in Mexico and moved to the United States in middle school without speaking English. Navigating a new language, culture, and education system taught me resilience and adaptability. As a Latina in engineering and now a PhD student at the University of Virginia, these experiences help me understand many of the challenges Latino graduate students face as well as shape how I approach leadership. I aspire to empowering members by amplifying diverse perspectives and advocating for students as they navigate academia and their professional journeys.
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National Board of Directors: Undergraduate
Joyisa Alvarez is a proud first-generation daughter of Mexican immigrants and has spent the past seven years pursuing her undergraduate degree in Industrial Engineering. Her journey through engineering has not been linear, but through every obstacle, she has remained committed to serving her SHPE familia.
Joyisa’s SHPE journey began in 2019, during her freshman year at Arizona State University, when she joined the executive board as a Freshman Representative and attended her first SHPE National Convention. Since then, she has attended every National Convention and continues to credit SHPE for shaping both her professional path and her sense of purpose. Through the countless opportunities provided by SHPE, Joyisa secured her dream internship at L’Oréal USA, where she completed four consecutive internships and a co-op. This summer, she is excited to continue expanding her experience by joining Honda in Ohio as an intern.
After three years of service on her university’s executive board, Joyisa stepped into her regional leadership role as SHPEtinas Director for Region 2, a position she has held for nearly four years. In this position, she works to ensure SHPEtinas ‘ representation and support across Alaska, Arizona, Hawaii, Southern California, and Southern Nevada. During this time, she has hosted initiatives including SHPEtinas Convention Preparation Workshops, Mental Health & Vulnerability Workshops, SHPEtinas Regional Spring Gatherings, and leadership development sessions for SHPEtinas Directors. Her most significant accomplishment has been leading the SHPEtinas 2025 Initiative, which led the expansion of SHPEtinas Director positions across professional and university chapters, increasing representation from 25% to 95%.
Joyisa believes that leadership begins with listening and leading with honesty, vulnerability, and respect for others’ journeys. She hopes to continue advocating for students with unique academic backgrounds and ensuring they know their paths, voices, and experiences belong in every space they enter.
Why are you running for SHPE elected office and what do you hope to accomplish in this position?
I am running for Undergraduate Student Representative because I want to ensure that every student finds the same sense of belonging and opportunity within SHPE, no matter the background they come from. My goal is to represent students whose journeys may not follow traditional timelines and ensure that their voices are considered for SHPE’s future. I believe that our diverse paths and stories strengthen the organization and should be part of the conversation.
Describe your prior and current involvement with SHPE.
I first became involved with SHPE in 2019 at Arizona State University, where I served for three years on my chapter’s executive board. Those early experiences introduced me to the powerful leadership, mentorship, and community that define our SHPE familia. For the past four years, I have served as Region 2’s SHPEtinas Director, supporting chapters across five states and continuing the expansion of SHPEtina Director representation and SHPEtina sisterhood across professional and university chapters.
How have your prior life experiences prepared you for this role?
My journey through engineering has not followed a traditional timeline, but those experiences have shaped my perspective, resilience, and connection with my SHPE familia. As a first-generation daughter of immigrants and transfer student navigating higher education, I understand the pressures and uncertainty that many students face. Experiencing both challenges and opportunities has taught me about empathy, persistence, and the importance of listening.
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My name is Jonathan Merino, and I am a third-year Mechanical Engineering student at the University of California, Merced. Growing up as a first-generation Mexican-American in the Bay Area, I was surrounded by a wide variety of communities that showed me the importance of representation and breaking barriers. At first, I was confused about how I could achieve that, but SHPE showed me a path to success.
I joined SHPE my freshman year of college, and have been involved since. I joined as a general member, attending RLDC in Costa Mesa before becoming the Junior Chapter Representative at SHPE UC Merced. I reestablished our connections to the local K-12 schools and shared my personal story to inspire the next generation to break barriers within their own communities, and received support from industry professionals to advocate for families to pursue higher education. This experience led me to become the president of SHPE UC Merced and represent a community of 80+ members. I created our chapter’s sponsorship package and created new connections with existing SHPE chapters and companies near us.
SHPE has truly shown me the importance of familia. I have grown close to chapter leaders across the nation and seen their commitment to serving their communities. I want to do that at a large scale, establishing networks of chapters to communicate CMT strategies and how to overcome obstacles encountered. Help chapters know that their voices are valued and their presence is vital. Ensure the idea that collaboration is key among local chapters, and have more outreach events to develop new and existing industry relationships for future funding opportunities. To live by the SHPE UC Merced motto, “Lift as You Climb,” to ensure that as existing chapters are growing and developing, they are supporting the growth of nearby chapters along the way.
Why are you running for SHPE elected office and what do you hope to accomplish in this position?
SHPE has taught me that service is an invaluable act. Being part of the NBOD would allow me to reach a wider audience and provide personal insights to chapters. My top priority would be to develop a program that allows chapters to communicate directly with one another for their specific needs. This will give new emerging chapters the opportunity to gain amazing insight while allowing existing chapters to showcase their strategies to each other.
Describe your prior and current involvement with SHPE.
I served as the Junior Chapter Representative for SHPE UC Merced, where I reinvented our K-12 outreach programs and received $4000 to host Dia de Ciencias for the first time post-pandemic.
I also serve as the president for this year, where I represent a community of 80+ members who strive for greatness. I also hosted workshops to prepare our members to attend the 2026 SHPE National Convention and assisted with sponsorship for our members.
How have your prior life experiences prepared you for this role?
Familia has always been everything to me. I have been fortunate enough to grow deeply with many whom I consider my family, and SHPE has played a pivotal role in that. I have developed chapter reports, budget plans, sponsorship packages, and outreach programs to give back to underrepresented communities. SHPE’s values motivate me to improve every day in giving Hispanic students a platform to display their talents and develop into innovative industry leaders.
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Region 1
Graduate Representative | To be filled via appointment |
Student Representative | To be filled via appointment |
Ruby Canchola Ascencio is a dedicated leader passionate about fostering community and professional growth within SHPE. She graduated from Oregon State University with a degree in Construction Engineering and Management, where she developed a strong foundation in problem-solving, teamwork, and leadership.
Ruby’s journey with SHPE began as a student, where she quickly became involved in chapter leadership and regional initiatives. Inspired by past leaders, she has continued to serve and support SHPE beyond graduation, recognizing the power of mentorship and community in advancing Hispanic representation in STEM.
As the current SHPE Region 1 Vice President, Ruby has worked to improve communication, strengthen connections between chapters, and create opportunities for both students and professionals. She has spearheaded initiatives like virtual and in person regional events, networking mixers, and convention preparation workshops, all aimed at enhancing member engagement and career readiness. She also emphasizes inclusivity, ensuring that members at all levels feel supported and connected.
Ruby’s vision for Region 1 is to continue building a strong, united community that empowers its members through mentorship, collaboration, and professional development. She is committed to fostering new leadership, increasing regional engagement, and ensuring that every SHPE member has access to opportunities that will help them succeed.
With her experience, dedication, and passion for SHPE’s mission, Ruby is eager to continue leading and advocating for Region 1 as its RVP.
Why are you running for SHPE elected office and what do you hope to accomplish in this position?
I was fortunate to step into the role of SHPE Region 1 Vice President this past year, and in these months, I’ve gained firsthand insight into the needs of our region. Through conversations with members, chapter leaders, and professionals, I’ve seen the importance of strengthening our sense of community, providing meaningful development opportunities, and improving communication across our chapters.
Region 1 is filled with passionate and talented individuals, and I believe that with more time in this role, I can continue building the support systems necessary for our members to thrive. My goal is to create a more connected and engaged region where students and professionals feel empowered through mentorship, leadership development, and collaboration. I want to enhance communication channels, organize impactful regional events, and provide more accessible resources that will help our members navigate their careers and SHPE journeys.
Ultimately, I am running because I care deeply about our region and want to ensure that every member feels supported, represented, and equipped for success. By fostering a strong, united community, we can create a lasting impact and continue to advance SHPE’s mission in Region 1.
Describe your prior and current involvement with SHPE.
My involvement with SHPE began at Oregon State University, where I served as both Vice President and President of my chapter. Leading at the chapter level allowed me to support our members’ professional growth, organize impactful events, and strengthen our SHPE community on campus.
During my final year, I wanted to make a difference on a larger scale, which led me to take on the role of Regional Junior Representative (RJR) for Region 1. This experience gave me the opportunity to work closely with other chapters, support regional initiatives, and gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities within our region.
A few months ago, I was honored to be asked to step in as SHPE Region 1 Vice President (RVP). In this role, I have worked to improve communication across chapters, foster stronger connections between students and professionals, and develop initiatives that enhance engagement and career readiness. Serving as RVP has reinforced my passion for supporting our members and has shown me the importance of regional leadership in driving SHPE’s mission forward.
Through each of these roles, I have remained committed to building a stronger, more connected SHPE community, and I hope to continue serving Region 1 in an even greater capacity.
How have your prior life experiences prepared you for this role?
Throughout my life, I have sought opportunities to lead, build, and support those around me. My journey in SHPE, combined with my academic and professional experiences, has prepared me to take on the role of SHPE Region 1 Vice President.
As a student leader at Oregon State University, I served as both Vice President and President of my SHPE chapter. These roles taught me how to manage teams, organize events, and advocate for the needs of my members. I learned the importance of fostering a sense of community and ensuring that every member had access to resources that would help them grow personally and professionally.
My transition to the role of Regional Junior Representative (RJR) expanded my leadership skills beyond my university, allowing me to support multiple chapters, facilitate collaboration, and understand the unique challenges faced across our region. This experience gave me insight into regional leadership and prepared me to take on the responsibilities of Regional Vice President when I was asked to step into the role a few months ago.
Beyond SHPE, my background in construction engineering and management has strengthened my ability to problem-solve, communicate effectively, and manage large-scale projects. These skills directly translate to the work of an RVP—coordinating with chapter leaders, overseeing regional initiatives, and ensuring our members have the tools they need to succeed.
Every leadership experience I’ve had has reinforced my passion for service and my commitment to SHPE’s mission. I am confident that my experiences have prepared me to continue leading Region 1 and creating lasting, positive change for our members.
My name is Jose Jaime Esquivel, and I am a first-generation Mexican living in the United States. My family was fortunate enough to cross the border safely and settle in San Jose, CA, for a better future. When I was in high school, I didn’t know what career options to pursue. At the time, I did not know any engineers or what they did, but I decided to choose engineering because I loved science fiction. I struggled to find my passion during my undergraduate years, but I at least had friends in my SHPE chapter at San Jose State University (SJSU). For me, SHPE meant a place where I was not alone. Many of us did not come from an engineering background. We were all trying to navigate a new world where we wanted to make our families proud. With the help of SHPE and my community, I was able to complete my BS and continue pursuing my Master’s in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering a SJSU.
My hope for the organization’s future is to continue growing. SHPE is already a large organization, but a lot of work still needs to be done for SHPE to become a household name that new, underrepresented engineers instantly recognize. Every year at SHPE Nationals, I meet new chapters being formed all over the US, which gives me hope that there is still much work to be done. The legacy I want to leave behind will focus on SHPE’s core value of “familia.” I want to make our members proud to be part of SHPE. By doing this, I hope we can increase retention and find new leaders who will take on our positions and carry the same torch we are carrying.
Why are you running for SHPE elected office and what do you hope to accomplish in this position?
I want to continue as a Regional Graduate Representative because I was able to see the needs in my region, and during my term, I learned how to lead effectively. In previous years, when I helped the RGRs, I supported their vision, but I didn’t know what it was like to be in their position. Now that my term is almost over, I’ve gotten into the groove of leading my graduate team and finding better ways to support students in my region.
I want to bring in new ideas, like having a point of contact for graduate students at each university. Another idea is to have prizes at our events to encourage more people to attend. A random raffle could also help motivate people to come.
My main vision I want to work on is getting more graduate students involved and making sure they feel like they are part of the community. I think having a stronger marketing team could help increase engagement and create a better environment in my region.
Lastly, I want to look for a successor to take over after me. I want to leave behind standard operating procedures so the next RGR doesn’t have to start from scratch. My goal is to train the next RGRs so they are ready to lead and continue building up our region.
Describe your prior and current involvement with SHPE.
I have been involved with SHPE since 2014 at San Jose State University, but I first took on a leadership role in SHPE when I began helping the Region 1 Graduate Representatives from 2020 to 2024. Our graduate committee created and facilitated monthly workshops to educate incoming MS and PhD students on how to succeed during and after graduate school. Since then, I have facilitated a total of 14 total workshops on topics such as financial assistance, selecting the right principal investigator, negotiation strategies, and becoming a professor. I believe my work is important because I want to see more underrepresented groups in graduate school and give them the resources needed to succeed. I often think back to when I was new to engineering, and I want to ensure that I am helping the next leader who will help future leaders succeed. The legacy I want to leave behind is helping people pursue their wild dreams, just as I did with mine.
How have your prior life experiences prepared you for this role?
My leadership journey began before my involvement with SHPE when I was part of Student Advocates for Higher Education (SAHE) from 2014 to 2018, a student-run organization at San Jose State University focused on immigration reform and student success. Although I did not hold leadership roles in SHPE during my undergraduate years, I was deeply involved in SAHE, serving as secretary, treasurer, communications lead, and eventually president. During my time there, my team and I raised $15,000 in scholarship funds to support high school and university students. I also co-facilitated rallies advocating for fair immigration reform. These experiences strengthened my ability to organize events, manage teams, and advocate for causes that directly impact students. Through these experiences, I have honed my skills in leadership, organization, and advocacy. I am still learning how to become a good leader, but these experiences have shaped me in a positive direction to help me in this role.
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Region 2
Leo Soto is an engineer from New Jersey, who currently resides in Los Angeles, California. He began his journey as a first generation college student when he attend Union County College in Cranford, New Jersey. Upon completion of his Associate’s Degree in engineering, he transferred to Rutgers University where he obtained his Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering. In completing this venture, he moved he relocated to Los Angeles, California to begin his career at Boeing.
During his time at Boeing he served various functions, including Structural Design Engineer and Mechanical Liaison Engineer. He currently serves as Responsible Engineering Authority for Structural Design & Integration. He has held various roles in SHPE including South Bay LA Chapter President (2013-2016), RVP Region 2 (2018-2021), and National Board of Director member (2021-2023). He most recently served on the Professional track committee for SHPE Convention 2025.
Why are you running for SHPE elected office and what do you hope to accomplish in this position?
I am running to best serve the members of Region 2. I want to create long term sustainable resources to help chapters execute on SHPE vision & mission. I also want to increase engagement of our members across the region.
Describe your prior and current involvement with SHPE.
Rutgers University Chapter President (2008-2009)
South Bay LA Chapter President (2013-2016)
RVP Region 2 (2018-2021)
National Board of Director member (2021-2023)
Professional track committee for SHPE Convention (2024-2025)
How have your prior life experiences prepared you for this role?
I have led numerous teams in both SHPE and my professional career. This provided with exceptional leadership skills in team building, strategic planning and execution, and communication.
Kenia Roman Ortiz is a Mathematics–Computer Science student at the University of California, San Diego with a strong passion for expanding opportunities for underrepresented students in STEM. As an active member of the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE), Kenia has dedicated much of her time to fostering community, mentorship, and professional development among students. She previously served on the SHPE Outreach Committee, where she helped organize and support outreach initiatives such as the TJ Outreach event and the Empower conference, working to inspire younger students to pursue STEM pathways.
Kenia is also involved in organizing social and professional events that strengthen connections within the engineering community. Through SHPE General Body Meetings, fundraisers, study jams, and networking events, she has helped create spaces where students can build meaningful relationships and develop professionally. She believes that strong community and mentorship are essential to student success and strives to contribute to an environment where members feel supported both academically and personally.
Outside of SHPE, Kenia is pursuing opportunities in the software engineering field and is passionate about using technology to create meaningful impact. She has gained experience through technical coursework, bioinformatics research focused on optimizing bloom filter performance, and collaborative non-profit projects that give back to the community. She is continually working to grow her skills in software development and problem solving. In Summer 2026, she will be working as a Software Engineering Intern at LPL Financial, where she looks forward to gaining industry experience and further developing her technical and professional skills.
As a candidate for the SHPE Regional Undergraduate Representative position, Kenia hopes to advocate for undergraduate voices, strengthen collaboration between chapters, and help create opportunities that empower students across the region. She is committed to supporting the SHPE mission of transforming lives and communities through STEM.
Why are you running for SHPE elected office and what do you hope to accomplish in this position?
I am running for SHPE elected office because I am committed to supporting Hispanic and Latino students pursuing STEM careers by helping them feel seen, supported, and empowered. As a Regional Student Representative, I strive to serve as a dedicated voice for undergraduate members and ensure their perspectives, challenges, and ideas are accurately represented within regional leadership. Through strategic company outreach, chapter engagement, and faculty panels that inspire academia, I hope to contribute to a connected and supportive region.
Describe your prior and current involvement with SHPE.
I became involved in SHPE during my first year as an Outreach Committee intern, where I helped coordinate K-12 outreach events encouraging underrepresented students to pursue STEM. In my second year, I served as Outreach Chair and Tijuana Director, organizing our semi-annual trip to the City of Angels Orphanage to host STEM activities and coordinate donation drives. I currently serve as my chapter’s Social Chair for over 200+ active members, where I work to strengthen our sense of Familia through bi-weekly community-building events.
How have your prior life experiences prepared you for this role?
My leadership experiences have shaped me to value community, mentorship, and support. As a first-generation Latina pursuing a STEM degree, I have faced obstacles and often navigated academic and professional spaces without clear guidance. The lack of mentorship early in my journey forced me to build my own tools, seek out opportunities, and create support systems for myself. These experiences fueled my passion for creating spaces where students feel supported, empowered, and connected within the STEM community.
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Graduate Representative | To be filled via appointment |
Region 3
Graduate Representative | To be filled via appointment |
Student Representative | To be filled via appointment |
My name is Edward Martinez and I am very excited about the opportunity to serve our membership as a Regional leader! I currently live in Denver and am a member of the SHPE Colorado Professional chapter. I am a Flight Software Engineer at Maxar Space Systems and support spacecraft design, development and test for our government customers. I am passionate about aerospace technology and applications, and the opportunity to contribute to the NASA Artemis program through Maxar’s development of the Power and Propulsion Element for the Lunar Gateway has been a unique privilege. Previously, I spent time at Collins Aerospace and Pratt & Whitney where I supported software test and development for various avionics platforms.
My SHPE journey began as a student in 2011 when I joined my college chapter at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, NY. While at RPI, I completed a B.S in Aeronautical Engineering and a minor in Electrical Engineering. I also competed for RPI for 4 seasons of cross country as well as indoor & outdoor track and field. I still enjoy running, and these days can be heard pestering friends & family to sign up for the BolderBoulder 10K here in CO. My other hobbies include traveling, dancing and trying new foods – combining all three when possible! Some of my favorite trips include hiking in Zion National Park, watching the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, experiencing Oktoberfest in Munich, and island hopping in the Galapagos.
My experiences with SHPE throughout the years have shown me first-hand how impactful this organization is to its members. Through working with our chapter leaders, regional leadership and staff, I have been learning how we may best give back to the membership. I look forward to continuing to serve our members and hopefully meet many of you soon!
Why are you running for SHPE elected office and what do you hope to accomplish in this position?
I am running for an elected SHPE position because I have seen the great work that the membership puts into its community and want to do my part in supporting their efforts. Region 3 faces a unique challenge in that our region is geographically vast and our chapters spread out. I believe that through focused coordination, we can increase collaboration between chapters and increase our region-wide offerings through virtual events.
Describe your prior and current involvement with SHPE.
I joined SHPE in 2011 at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, and was deeply committed to our chapter’s programming and efforts. I held various positions on our chapter’s SHPE/NSBE Career Fair, Outreach Weekend and Executive Board. I was fortunate to attend the National Convention and Region 4 RLDCs from 2011-2015, and attended my first NILA in 2013.
Most recently, I am a member of the SHPE CO Professional chapter, and have served as the Region 3 Junior Representative since 2023.
How have your prior life experiences prepared you for this role?
I’ve worked with distributed teams my entire professional career and feel that it is critical to establish consistent communications to foster a greater sense of community due to our region’s size. I also feel that my personal experiences as a SHPE member and RJR have well prepared me for supporting the range of members in our region. I intend to leverage my own experiences to support our membership and help them shine in all-new ways.
My name is Ezekiel Jaramillo, and I am excited to run for the position of SHPE Regional Student Representative (RSR). I come from a small farm town in rural New Mexico, and my journey as a Hispanic engineer has shaped my passion for uplifting others in our community. Currently, I am a senior studying Computer Science at the University of Utah, and when I’m not working on my studies or SHPE initiatives, you can find me skiing in the mountains.
Throughout my college career, SHPE has been a driving force in my professional and personal growth. As president of my university’s chapter, I led efforts to grow our membership from just five students to over 135 in a single year, making it one of the fastest-growing chapters in the country. I was also fortunate to serve as Vice Regional Student Representative (Vice RSR) this past year, where I worked closely with student leaders across the region to coordinate meetings, strengthen communication with national leadership, and support chapter development. This experience has given me a deep understanding of the role and the ability to step in as RSR with confidence and vision.
This summer, I will be interning with Boston Consulting Group (BCG) in New York City, expanding my leadership and problem-solving skills in a new industry. My experiences have given me unique insights into professional development, which I plan to bring to our SHPE region. As RSR, I will work to provide students with the resources, opportunities, and connections they need to thrive.
I am committed to a stronger, more connected SHPE community, and I look forward to the opportunity to serve. Let’s continue building a future where every Hispanic engineer feels empowered to succeed.
Why are you running for SHPE elected office and what do you hope to accomplish in this position?
I am running for SHPE elected office because I am passionate about empowering Hispanic students in STEM and ensuring that they have access to the resources, mentorship, and professional opportunities needed to succeed. Through my leadership in SHPE at the University of Utah as President and my role as Vice Regional Student Representative (RSR), I have seen firsthand the impact that strong leadership and strategic initiatives can have on a chapter’s growth and success.
If elected, I aim to further strengthen SHPE’s regional and national networks, enhance collaboration between student and professional chapters, and create more structured pipelines for Hispanic students to access internships and full-time job opportunities. I also want to improve communication within SHPE leadership to ensure that every chapter, regardless of size, has the tools and guidance they need to thrive.
Describe your prior and current involvement with SHPE.
I started my journey with SHPE as a member of the University of Utah chapter when it was relatively small. As president, I played a key role in expanding the chapter from just 5 members to 135, making it one of the fastest-growing SHPE chapters in the country. Under my leadership, we built strong corporate partnerships, organized professional development events, and significantly increased our chapter’s presence at the SHPE National Convention.
Beyond my university chapter, I serve as a Vice Regional Student Representative (RSR), where I am responsible for regional communications, hosting student chapter meetings, working on operational projects, organizing team documents, and relaying important information to undergraduate presidents in my sub-region. In this role, I have worked closely with both student and professional members, helping chapters improve their operations and engagement.
How have your prior life experiences prepared you for this role?
Coming from a small farm town in rural New Mexico and working my way through college while balancing leadership roles, internships, and professional development, I have learned the importance of resilience, strategic planning, and community-building. My experiences growing up in a Hispanic community have instilled in me a deep appreciation for mentorship and the power of representation in STEM fields.
As a former Apple employee and an engineering intern at L3Harris and Lockheed Martin, I understand the challenges Hispanic students face in breaking into competitive industries. This has fueled my commitment to providing tangible support, such as job preparation workshops, networking events, and corporate sponsorship opportunities for SHPE members.
My role in growing the University of Utah SHPE chapter demonstrates my ability to lead, innovate, and scale initiatives successfully. Additionally, my experience as Vice RSR has equipped me with the skills needed to navigate SHPE’s broader organizational structure, communicate effectively with different stakeholders, and drive meaningful change at the regional level.
With these experiences, I am confident in my ability to serve in SHPE elected office and continue advocating for Hispanic students in STEM.
Region 4
Vanesa Aguay Guerra is an Electrical Engineering and Computer Science student at Yale University passionate about building technology that expands opportunity for the Latino community. Growing up between Ecuador and rural Pennsylvania without stable internet access, she learned to navigate constraints with curiosity, teaching herself to code and exploring how systems work.
At Yale, Vanesa applies that mindset as a networking engineer on the Quantum Laser Across the Sound research team, where she designs measurement and synchronization systems for quantum networking experiments. She also works as a Student Technician supporting campus-wide technology systems serving more than 12,000 users.
Beyond her technical work, Vanesa is deeply involved in Latino student leadership as a Peer Liaison at Yale’s La Casa Latino Cultural Center, Treasurer of Latina Women at Yale, and President of Ecuatorianos Unidos y Amigos, helping build mentorship and community for Latino and first-generation students.
She is also the founder of uBridge, a nonprofit expanding STEM access and ethical AI education for underrepresented students. Vanesa has contributed to NASA’s L’SPACE mission design program, published research with the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics, and authored the bilingual AI literacy book “Hola Mundo.”
Through SHPE, Vanesa hopes to launch a structured mentorship program that directly matches student members with Latino engineers, researchers, and professionals in emerging fields such as AI, data science, and quantum engineering, ensuring the next generation of Hispanic engineers is not only represented in STEM, but helping shape the technologies defining its future.
Why are you running for SHPE elected office and what do you hope to accomplish in this position?
I am running to strengthen mentorship and opportunity pathways for Latino engineers. I hope to launch a structured mentorship initiative within SHPE that matches student members with Latino engineers in emerging fields like AI and data science. I am also interested in supporting SHPE-wide member feedback initiatives, such as surveys and mentorship cohorts, to better understand what students need and help chapters build stronger communities and support systems.
Describe your prior and current involvement with SHPE.
I am an active member of my university’s SHPE chapter and have worked to grow collaboration with other Latino organizations on campus. I was selected to represent Region 4 at the SHPEtinas Regional Conference in Atlanta. Through my leadership roles as Treasurer of Latina Women at Yale and President of Ecuatorianos Unidos y Amigos, I hope to expand SHPE and SHPEtinas participation while strengthening connections across Latino STEM communities on campus.
How have your prior life experiences prepared you for this role?
Growing up between Ecuador and rural Pennsylvania without stable internet access taught me to seek opportunity even when resources were limited. As a first-generation student navigating STEM, I learned how critical mentorship and community are. Through founding the nonprofit uBridge, mentoring younger students, and leading campus organizations, I have developed the leadership and perspective to help build stronger support systems for Latino engineers through SHPE.
Vice President | To be filled via appointment |
| Graduate Representative | To be filled via appointment |
Region 5
My name is Abigail Lopez, and I am a junior studying Mechanical Engineering at the University of Houston. I currently serve as the President of SHPE-UH, and am hoping to be your next Region 5 Student Representative. Since high school, I have been a Latina immersed in the world of engineering and since starting college, SHPE has changed the trajectory of my college experience and leadershpe journey.
My SHPE involvement began my freshman year when I served on the Mini-Eboard and recieved the SHPE Houston SHPEtina Scholarship. Inspired by the impact that SHPE had on me, I ran for New Member Representative (NMR) the following year with the goal of retaining and expanding opportunities for members. During my time as NMR, I helped recruit over 500 members and co-founded the SHPEtina Chair position. Now serving as President, I have focused on member retention and long-term chapter sustainability. I currently lead a LeaderSHPE team of 30, helped sponsor 64 members to attend the SHPE National Convention, and helped distribute over $11,500 in scholarships.
Throughout my time in SHPE, I have attended three National Conventions, two SHPEtina Conferences, two CCLP’s, and one President’s Summit. Every single experience has strengthened my leadershpe skills and commitment to the SHPE mission. Through the SHPE National Convention 2024, I secured my first internship as a Production Engineering Intern with Dow, and this summer I will be joining Chevron as a Facilities Engineering Intern. Without the power of SHPE connection, these opportunities would not have been made possible.
I like to tell members that SHPE isn’t just a professional organization, but a place to grow professionally, academically, personally, and socially. As RSR, I hope to expand access to opportunities, strengthen collaboration between chapters and ensure that more students find their familia and future through SHPE.
Why are you running for SHPE elected office and what do you hope to accomplish in this position?
I am running Region 5 RSR because I want to ensure that every student who joins SHPE has access to opportunities that can change their professional journey. This role would allow me to make an impact at the regional level. I want to inspire change where possible; whether it be through celebrating our members, increasing cross collaboration between student and professional chapters, and providing chapters and members with the resources they need to thrive.
Describe your prior and current involvement with SHPE.
I joined SHPE-UH as a freshman and served on the Mini EBoard. I then served as New Member Representative, where I recruited 500+ members and co-founded the SHPEtina chair. I currently serve as the President of SHPE-UH where I’ve had the opportunity to bring 64 members to SHPE National Convention and start initiatives such as Web Development Chair, giving members opportunities to grow their technical skills, and starting leadershpe teams within 4 SHPE Jr Chapters.
How have your prior life experiences prepared you for this role?
My journey as a Latina in engineering started in the 5th grade, when I was rejected from my school’s robotics team. Since then, I’ve had a passion for advocacy and representation for Hispanics and women in STEM. Through my leadershpe roles within SHPE, I have created spaces where students feel empowered and supported. As Region 5 RSR, I will continue to advocate for members by ensuring they have access to resources, opportunities and support.
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Graduate Representative | To be filled via appointment |
Region 6
Vice President | To be filled via appointment Graduate Representative | To be filled via appointment Student Representative | To be filled via appointment |
Katherine Zepeda-Romero grew up in Westerville, OH, and is pursuing her M.S. in Supply Chain Management and Production System at the Ohio State University, where she also completed her B.S. in Mechanical Engineering.
Her professional experience spans multiple industries, including aerospace and automation. She has worked as a Supply Chain and Systems Engineering Intern at GE Aerospace, a Manufacturing Engineering Intern at Collins Aerospace, and an Operations Manufacturing Engineering Intern at Rockwell Automation. These experiences have allowed her to develop process optimization, logistics, and engineering operations skills, strengthening her ability to drive efficiency and innovation.
Beyond her academic and professional pursuits, Katherine is deeply committed to empowering the Hispanic community and promoting STEM education for high school students. As the Mobility Leader for the EcoCAR EV Challenge, she collaborates with communities in Columbus and Dayton, Ohio, to educate and spread awareness about electric vehicles and their role in sustainable transportation. Additionally, she serves as the Vice Region 6 Student Representative, where she helps foster a sense of community among SHPE chapters and undergraduate members across the region.
In her free time, Katherine enjoys exploring nature, with a lifelong goal of visiting all 63 U.S. National Parks. She is passionate about continuous learning and professional growth, particularly in the supply chain sector, where she seeks to develop innovative solutions and drive efficiency in production systems.
With her diverse experience and passion for community engagement, Katherine is eager to continue advocating for graduate students and providing valuable resources.
Why are you running for SHPE elected office and what do you hope to accomplish in this position?
I am running to bridge the gap for graduate students by creating a stronger support system with resources like research opportunities, career development, industry connections, mentorship, funding, and networking. I aim to develop a Graduate Student Network and increase graduate involvement in SHPE National and local chapters. To encourage participation from local chapters in research competitions and leadership opportunities to strengthen SHPE’s impact in graduate education.
Describe your prior and current involvement with SHPE.
I began my involvement at Ohio State University’s SHPE (SHPE OSU) Chapter in 2019 and have since held roles in Chapter Development, Treasurer, Vice President, and President. Currently, I serve as the Community Outreach Chair for SHPE OSU, working on the Dias De Ciencias event, and as the Region 6 Vice Student Representative, working to support chapters and foster engagement across the region.
How have your prior life experiences prepared you for this role?
My experience with roles in SHPE OSU and as Region 6 Vice Student Representative has equipped me with the leadership, collaboration, and organizational skills needed for this role. Through my roles, I have built strong connections and supported STEM outreach. My background in community building, professional development, and advocacy for students has prepared me to enhance graduate student engagement, resources, and leadership opportunities.
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Region 7
My name is Erik Vaquero, and I am a first-generation Mexican college student studying Civil Engineering at Kennesaw State University. SHPE has truly been life-changing for me: not only has being part of this amazing community helped me develop myself professionally, but it has helped me develop many meaningful friendships and connections instilling a strong feeling that I am part of this huge familia we call SHPE. STEM has always been a passion of mine, but growing up in an area with low representation of Hispanics in STEM and in higher education, it wasn’t an opportunity I believed belonged to me. At the start of my freshman year, I moved to a more diverse area, and it changed my perspective on everything. I was able to pursue engineering classes and join organizations for people from similar backgrounds who faced the same adversity as I did. Through this experience, I became one of the founders of my high school’s HoPe (Hispanic Organization Promoting Education) chapter, where I helped build a community that enabled students to overcome some of the adversities that we often find as a minority
Since I began at Kennesaw State University, I joined SHPE during my first semester, and it introduced me to an environment I had never been a part of before, a community focused on Hispanics pursuing engineering. This sparked my passion for SHPE. I pursued every opportunity to become more involved, including joining the academic committee, participating in the planning committee, attending the 2024 and 2025 National Convention, and eventually becoming External Vice President. SHPE has given me so much: friends I now consider family, mentors who support me through everything, opportunities I never thought were possible, and the chance to make a meaningful impact in my community. I want to give back everything SHPE has given me and more. I believe the best way to do this is by breaking down barriers and putting myself in a position that allows others to believe this path is possible for them as well.
Why are you running for SHPE elected office and what do you hope to accomplish in this position?
I am running for SHPE Region 7 Student Representative to be the difference I want to see in my community. Coming from a “smaller” chapter, I want to uplift and amplify chapters that may not always be heard. My goal is to expand SHPE’s reach, increase access to resources, support national convention attendance, and strengthen connections with regional and professional chapters. Ultimately, I aim to foster unity, inclusivity, and shared growth across the region.
Describe your prior and current involvement with SHPE.
My first year, I joined the academic and planning committees and attended every event possible. Currently as External Vice President, I helped grow our chapter to over 400 members and increased sponsorships by 200%. I was involved in planning the first statewide SHPE hackathon and the first regional SHPEPilates event, and secured funding for over 70 members to attend the National Convention. My focus has been fostering collaboration from the regional level down to individual chapters.
How have your prior life experiences prepared you for this role?
I grew up being taught to be the difference you want to see. Through my leadership journey I have always been someone to make a change and challenge the norm which is what I believe is important when wanting to connect a wide variety of cultures, views, areas, and experiences. As Region 7 student representative I plan to challenge the status quo and uplift not just 1-2 chapters but everyone far and wide ensuring that SHPE’s mission, vision, and values are upheld.
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Graduate Representative | To be filled via appointment |