Supporting the Next Generation of Engineers
In 2026, I was selected to support the RoboSub STEM Ambassador Team at RoboSub in Irvine, California.
At RoboSub 2026 in Irvine, California. Public-facing photo used for professional portfolio documentation.
RoboSub brings together university teams from around the world to design, build, test, and compete with underwater remotely operated and autonomous vehicle systems. What stood out to me most was the range of teams, resources, and backgrounds represented at the event. Some teams were working with very limited budgets, while others traveled thousands of miles to compete. Their passion, creativity, and determination were impressive.
My role was to support the event through technical assistance, STEM outreach, and engagement with competing teams. I had the opportunity to learn from students, observe their engineering approaches, and see how teams solved real problems under pressure.
This experience reminded me that engineering is not just about technical knowledge. It is also about communication, teamwork, adaptability, and the ability to keep moving when things do not work the first time.
What I Took Away
- Student engineering teams can do impressive work with limited resources.
- Clear communication matters when technical problems happen under pressure.
- STEM outreach is most effective when students can see real people supporting their growth.
- Robotics competitions reveal both technical skill and team resilience.
- Supporting others is one of the best ways to grow as an engineer and leader.
Supporting RoboSub gave me a deeper appreciation for student robotics, underwater systems, and the importance of creating opportunities for future engineers. It also reinforced the kind of engineer and leader I want to become: someone who stays curious, helps others grow, and remembers how much it matters when someone takes the time to support people who are still learning.