Undergraduate

Kamya Arora is currently a freshman general engineering major at Texas A&M University from Austin, Texas. She is interested in pursuing a career in computer science/data engineering with a minor in cybersecurity. As an undergraduate research assistant in the NUA2NCED laboratory, she has been focused on creating remote resources to aid students in mathematics and physics-related modules required for all engineers. Kamya is also actively involved with many campus organizations, some of which include Aggie Women in Computer Science and the Engineering Mentorship Council.

Laksha Arora is a freshman in engineering at Texas A&M University from Austin, Texas and is currently part of the NUA2CED lab at the university. Her research work mainly revolves around exploring the capabilities and limitations of Chat GPT, an advanced language model. Although she has not yet chosen her major, Laksha is interested in pursuing a career in either computer science or data engineering. Additionally, Laksha has an interest in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and cybersecurity. Outside the lab, she is an active member of the Aggie Women in Computer Science Club and Aggie Coding Club.

Ryan Bowersox is a senior undergraduate student at Texas A&M University completing a Bachelors of Science in Manufacturing and Mechanical Engineering Technology. He conducts research at The Novel Unconventional Aerospace Applications iN Core Educational Disciplines (NUA2NCED) lab, where he focuses on utilizing alternative manufacturing methods for a miniature skin friction sensor for use in hypersonic facilities at the Texas A&M University National Aerothermochemistry and Hypersonics Laboratory. Ryan’s interest in aerospace engineering began through his experience building and testing complex hybrid rocket systems for the TAMU Sounding Rocketry Team and led him to pursue a student research technician job, provided by Dr. Shryock and the NUA2NCED Lab. In this role, Ryan enjoyed automating a pitch and roll control system for experimental use inside an actively controlled hypersonic expansion tunnel, convincing him to continue with the NUA2NCED Lab and work towards a Masters of Science in Interdisciplinary Engineering with thesis.

Ben Casillas is a senior aerospace engineering major from Pflugerville, Texas. In the NUANCED laboratory, they are investigating the effectiveness of unconventional applications for introductory aerospace curriculum in exam-format problems. The goals for this study include improving students’ engagement in and understanding of their course content, as part of a broader effort under the NSF REDO-E grant to reach out to underrepresented populations in engineering. The results of this study are currently under review for publication in the 2023 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition.

Outside of the lab, Ben is also the director of Texas A&M Rocket Engine Design, working to develop A&M’s first liquid-fuelled rocket engine through a rigorous systems engineering approach. They plan to complete their M.S. in aerospace engineering; their interests include human spaceflight & human systems integration, and they hope to help enable the future of crewed interplanetary spaceflight.

Braden Farrell is a Sophomore Aerospace Engineering major from Houston, Texas. Recently, Braden returned home from serving a two-year mission in Oregon with his church, and is now working towards a Master’s Degree in Aerospace. He is currently an undergraduate research assistant in the NUA2NCED laboratory where he has been focusing on Hydrofoil research and prototyping for electrically-powered aquatic vehicles. Braden’s Aerospace passions include the fundamentals of flight, spacecraft, propulsion, and astrophysics.

Zachary Reinert is a Senior aerospace engineering major at Texas A&M with a double minor in mathematics and business, from Fort Worth, Texas. He is currently an undergraduate research assistant at NUA²NCED Laboratory where he has been focusing on hydrofoil research and prototyping for electrically-powered aquatic vehicles. He is also the President of Texas A&M’s Trophy Hunters Association chapter (TAMU TTHA), a non-profit organization dedicated to fundraising for hunts given to children with life-altering disabilities and/or diseases. Zach’s aerospace passions include aerospace logistics, renewable energy, and aerospace business development.

Alexandra Sweeney is a junior chemical engineering major from Austin, Texas. She is currently an undergraduate research assistant in the NUA²NCED laboratory where she has been assisting in researching test anxiety. She has served as family events chair and bid day chair for her sorority Alpha Delta Pi. Alexandra plans to use her chemical engineering degree to work in the biotechnology or pharmaceutical industry.