Honors & Awards

CU С��Ƶ students win big at collegiate hydropower competition

Alexander James Servantez — Wed, 18 Jun 2025 22:32:51 +0000

CU С��Ƶ students win big at collegiate hydropower competition Alexander Jame… Wed, 06/18/2025 - 16:32

Alexander Servantez

A powerhouse group of graduating seniors from the University of Colorado С��Ƶ made waves in a sustainable challenge that’s all about energizing the future.

The CU Hydropower Team took part in this year’s Hydropower Collegiate Competition, where 12 teams from universities across the country were tasked with developing unique energy solutions using fresh, moving water—one of the Earth’s oldest forms of renewable energy.

The CU Hydropower Team holding up their award-winning testing apparatus on competition day.

But they weren’t just participants. They were overwhelming winners, earning first-place honors in a variety of contests within the competition, including the highly coveted Overall Best Team award.

“We had a great group and a really good workload sharing system,” said Logistics Manager Miles Salzer. “We weren’t really sure how we were going to do or what the outcome would be. There were a lot of challenges, but we overcame them and we’re proud of what we were able to accomplish.”

The competition, sponsored by the Department of Energy and the Water Power Technologies Office, was launched in 2022. It allows teams to showcase their engineering prowess by conceptually designing plans for either an electricity generating power dam or a functioning closed-loop pump storage facility.

The team chose to tackle the closed-loop pump storage facility—a novel hydropower solution that features two independent reservoirs that transport water back and forth, much like the sand in an hourglass. The system is also hydrodynamically sealed, preventing water from exiting the system.

CAD Engineer Jack Printup says this new pump storage concept is currently growing in popularity as a clean energy and sustainable alternative, but there are still some environmental risks involved.

“It’s basically a big water battery that lasts longer and is more consistent than other nonrenewable sources, but like nuclear plants, they can cause some damage to the area around it,” Printup said. “Our task was to choose and develop a site for our pump storage facility that was safe and could be implemented in the real world.”

CU Hydropower team members Sascha Fowler (left) and Pisay Suzuki (right) working on their testing apparatus in preparation for the competition.

But the competition doesn’t just focus on technical design. Judges also assessed the team’s ability to manage their facility’s finances and cybersecurity.

They even measured the group’s ability to use digital tools to increase community awareness or quickly pitch their plan to a panel of “investors” in an environment reminiscent of the hit TV show “Shark Tank.”

Luckily, Salzer said the group was perfectly equipped to handle the interdisciplinary obstacles with a well-rounded force of their own. The team featured students from the Paul M. Rady Department of Mechanical Engineering, the Environmental Engineering Program, the Department of Computer Science and even the Leeds School of Business.

“I think the different backgrounds made our group really unique,” said Salzer. “Hydropower—and renewable energy in general—are large and complex infrastructure projects. One of our team’s biggest strengths compared to other teams was our varied skill sets that allowed us to handle all of the challenges.”

Most importantly, however, the competition is designed to help college graduates develop skills, connections and interest in the hydropower industry.

Printup says increased activity and engagement in hydropower can be crucial, and this competition really sparked his passion.

“There are spurts in the hydropower industry—you build a large plant and then 60 years later it needs to be refurbished or new facilities need to be built,” Printup said. “I’m going into hydropower to continue developing this incredible technology, but also make sure public safety is at the forefront.”

The CU Hydropower Team had a strong showing in this year's Hydropower Collegiate Competition, bringing home multiple awards including the best design award, the cybersecurity award, the best quick pitch award and the highly coveted first-place honor in the overall competition.

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From left to right: Maximilian Schmid, Pisay Suzuki, Jack Printup, Patrick Liu, Luke Shaw, Sara Leschova, Charlie Loewenguth, Sascha Fowler, Miles Salzer, Tristan Wrable and Landon Nattrass.

Burleson earns 2025 Exceptional Graduate Faculty Mentor Award

Alexander James Servantez — Tue, 13 May 2025 20:53:08 +0000

Burleson earns 2025 Exceptional Graduate Faculty Mentor Award Alexander Jame… Tue, 05/13/2025 - 14:53

Assistant Professor Grace Burleson has earned the Graduate School's 2025 Exceptional Graduate Faculty Mentor Award for her outstanding contributions to mentoring individual graduate students and improving the overall climate of graduate education.

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Jayaram nabs prestigious grants to design insect-inspired, shapeshifting robots

Alexander James Servantez — Tue, 29 Apr 2025 16:57:24 +0000

Jayaram nabs prestigious grants to design insect-inspired, shapeshifting robots Alexander Jame… Tue, 04/29/2025 - 10:57

Assistant Professor Kaushik Jayaram is the recipient of a $650,000 CAREER award from the U.S. National Science Foundation. The funding will help Jayaram make advancements in robots by drawing from what might seem to be an unlikely source: insects and other small creatures.

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Seven mechanical engineering students earn graduating student awards

Alexander James Servantez — Wed, 23 Apr 2025 17:40:16 +0000

Seven mechanical engineering students earn graduating student awards Alexander Jame… Wed, 04/23/2025 - 11:40

Alexander Servantez

Seven students from the Paul M. Rady Department of Mechanical Engineering have earned graduating student awards from the College of Engineering and Applied Science in 2025.

These awards honor seniors who are nominated by faculty, staff or fellow students for their outstanding contributions.

Each of the seven award winners will be recognized and celebrated at the department's Graduation Recognition Ceremony on Thursday, May 8.

Read below to learn more about these students and their amazing achievements.

Boston Abrams

Abrams is receiving the Academic Engagement Award for his genuine passion for learning. As an ME major with minors in computer science and history, he is constantly seeking opportunities to expand his knowledge beyond traditional coursework and through an interdisciplinary approach. His nominator also says Abrams is an invaluable course assistant who is a "trusted mentor and leader in the classroom."

What's next for you and how did CU Engineering help you prepare for the future?

I will be pursuing a master's degree in mechanical engineering here at CU С��Ƶ. I am excited to use what I have learned in my classes, research and as a course assistant to succeed in the Bachelor's-Accelerated Master's Program (BAM). During my undergraduate journey, I learned a whole host of technical skills, from heat transfer to coding. I think the most important skill that I learned was managing my time and being efficient in the completion of my work.

Now that you are graduating, what's your best advice for other students?

My best advice is to get involved. You get to have a period of your life where your main responsibility in life can be learning. This is a great privilege, so make sure you use it. Get involved in clubs and research. This is how you can stand out and build the connections you will need later to get jobs. Don't worry if you don't click with the first project you try—take the time to find a project that you love.

Hale Burke

Burke, a Community Impact Award recipient, has put together an impressive resume of community engagement events and responsibilities during her time at CU С��Ƶ. She has served as the director of elementary school outreach for the Society of Women Engineers, participated in numerous volunteer events at Centaurus High School, founded the Emergency Painting Improv Comedy Club and worked with the Pre-College Engineering Outreach Program. She has also pushed herself to help her classmates by becoming a learning assistant for Physics 2: Calculus Based Electricity and Magnetism, a course assistant for Fluid Mechanics, and a curriculum development aide for Heat Transfer. Her nominator says she is a "true team player" and an excellent engineer who will positively impact any community she ends up in.

What's next for you and how did CU Engineering help you prepare for the future?

I will be working at BOA in Denver as an associate test engineer. The resources offered by CU С��Ƶ helped me grow both personally and professionally far beyond what I could have imagined four years ago. Becoming involved in research in the Granular Flow Lab, joining the board for the Society of Women Engineers, landing an incredible summer position through the CU Internship for Credit Program, working with the Pre-College Engineering Outreach Program through the ITLL, and getting to know the amazing faculty here have allowed me to develop the skills and mindset I needed to feel confident in taking my next steps.

Now that you are graduating, what's your best advice for other students?

Get involved on campus and don't be afraid to reach out for help or advice! Consider every opportunity that comes your way—you'll never know what you'll learn or what connections you'll make. Professors and upperclassmen are almost always happy to help you out, just take the opportunity to ask!

Additionally, take the time to celebrate your accomplishments and reflect on how far you have come. It is so easy to get lost in all of your assignments, projects, and looking to the future. Be kind to yourself—big changes don’t happen overnight. Take pride in what you have done, and what you continue to do!

Airyl Van Dayrit

Airyl is receiving a multitude of awards this spring, including the Community Impact Award, the Culture Impact Award and the Perseverance Award.

Airyl's impact on community and culture starts with his strong commitment and demonstrated effort to create a welcoming community for Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) students here at CU С��Ƶ. As a student leader for Asian Unity, one of the largest AAPI student organizations on campus, he played a key role in developing and bringing back some of the community's signature events, including Passport to Asia. He facilitated collaboration with other student organizations and helped foster an environment built upon relationships and connections. Most importantly, Airyl's work with Asian Unity has helped the AAPI community feel heard and safe on campus.

He is also being recognized for his perseverance and sheer toughness en route to his degree. English is Airyl's second language. He came to the United States at 14 years old and since he's been here, he's had to navigate numerous obstacles. But despite all of this, Airyl's nominators say he is always looking to help others and working hard with a smile on his face. One nominator said they couldn't imagine "a person more deserving of these awards than him."

What's next for you and how did CU Engineering help you prepare for the future?

This summer, I will be working as a field engineer for Mortenson, helping construct and commission wind turbines across the border of Washington and Oregon. In the fall, I’ll be continuing my accelerated master’s in mechanical engineering at CU С��Ƶ, where I hope to deepen my technical foundation in sustainable systems and sharpen my ability to lead in complex, cross-disciplinary environments. In the long term, I plan to pursue an MBA to further expand my leadership and business strategy skillset—ideally at a school where I can bridge clean energy innovation with global impact.

CU С��Ƶ and [the college] prepared me for all of this—not just with technical knowledge, but with the confidence to lead, mentor, and advocate for change. I will leave (and return) with a deep gratitude and understanding that engineering isn’t just about solving problems—it’s about serving people, communities, and the foreseeable future.

Now that you are graduating, what's your best advice for other students?

My best advice is for anyone who’s simply trying their best, living day by day and taking any chance they get to survive the harsh realities of life filled with uncertainty and insecurity. Be proud of who you are, where you come from, and what you believe in, while also having a curious and open mind. In every challenge, there will be better days and new reasons to keep fighting, so never stop fighting for your people, your sacrifices, your aspirations, your ambitions, and your values.

In a place as vast as С��Ƶ, don’t just search for where you belong, but try and create that space and invite others into it. Help those who feel lost and offer them the safety and support you once needed. And when you’re tired, remember you are human too. Be open to help, just as you strive to uplift others. You are not alone. Your presence is powerful. Let it silence your doubts. And above all, do what makes you happy and don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.

Aaron Kai Groudan

Groudan, a Community Impact Award honoree, is well-known in the college for his strong commitment and genuine care for his peers. He has served as a recitation leader in the Engineering Honors Program, leading students in dialogue relevant to the classroom and curriculum. He has been a standout peer mentor, going above-and-beyond to provide personalized support and cultivating a community of belonging.

Groudan has even shown commitment to other student's wellness, regularly helping fellow students who may feel lonely or disconnected. He has served as a facilitator on a peer-led wellness group that helps engineers tackle the stigmas of the discipline and find effective solutions to dealing with their struggles. His nominator says he is a "kindhearted human who isn't afraid to use his voice to help others."

What's next for you and how did CU Engineering help you prepare for the future?

The next steps in my career involve me coming back to CU С��Ƶ for a master's degree through the BAM Program. This college and university has helped me prepare for this degree with invigorating and engaging classes that made me want a higher education at this campus.

Now that you are graduating, what's your best advice for other students?

My best advice for students is build connections with your classmates and faculty. Opportunities arise in different forms, so try your best to meet them head on when they reveal themselves.

Andrew McCoy

McCoy is receiving the Culture Impact Award for his unwavering dedication to outreach and underrepresented student support. As a long-standing member of the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers, he has consistently encouraged and advocated for access to engineering education. He went beyond the college community, often coordinating K-12 outreach events such as "Dia de Ciencias" to inspire future generations.

McCoy has also served as a mentor in the Engineering GoldShirt program, providing first-year, underrepresented students with crucial support to help them transition into college. His leadership helped create an inclusive environment where young students were empowered to succeed. Many students also say his academic support has helped them achieve their goals in classes, as well. McCoy's nominator says he has a natural ability to connect with others and he has enriched the college community from top to bottom.

What's next for you and how did CU Engineering help you prepare for the future?

I'm going to continue my research in air quality, while looking for a full-time job. CU С��Ƶ helped me prepare by providing resources that allowed me to open doors and opportunities.

Harrison William Gannon

Gannon is being given the Global Engagement Award for his dedication and persistence to engineering impact, not just here at CU С��Ƶ, but abroad, as well. In 2022, he joined Engineers Without Borders and worked on two major projects aimed at improving infrastructure in Guatemala and Ecuador. On both of these projects, Gannon exemplified global teamwork by serving other communities and learning from his peers. He has a deep appreciation for other cultures that makes him both an incredible teammate, and a true student of engineering, capable of impacting communities across the globe in a variety of ways. His nominator says Gannon "dives deep into these experiences, building lasting connections and bringing them back to CU С��Ƶ."

What's next for you and how did CU Engineering help you prepare for the future?

Next year I will be in New Zealand on a Work Holiday Visa. During this time I will work in agriculture and tourism. CU С��Ƶ helped me prepare for this situation by instilling a sense of curiosity to explore the world.

Now that you are graduating, what's your best advice for other students?

My advice is to be an active listener who seeks to understand others without judgment. Approach every interaction with kindness, joy, and a genuine interest in other people's lives. The way you treat others defines a meaningful life, and building compassionate relationships creates a powerful legacy.

Shannon Blanco

Blanco is graduating with a dual major in mechanical engineering and biomedical engineering. She is receiving the Research Award for her work as a member of Neu Lab under Professor Corey Neu. Since joining this group in 2022, Blanco has contributed greatly to impact in the fields of biofabrication, 3D bioprinting, and the advancement of knowledge of osteoarthritis. Current solutions for younger patients with osteoarthritis who do not qualify for total knee replacements are primarily anti-inflammatory drugs that don’t restore the afflicted cartilage or bone tissue. There is a need for new treatment options, and her work will help bring these options to life.

She is also being recognized as a key member of an interdisciplinary team. She has co-authored peer-reviewed publications and worked with multiple stakeholders throughout her time at CU С��Ƶ, including doctors, surgeons and PhD-level scientists. Her nominator says her contributions have been "trusted by all members of the laboratory."

What's next for you and how did CU Engineering help you prepare for the future?

After graduating this spring, I will be continuing at CU С��Ƶ to pursue my master’s in mechanical engineering through the BAM program. In the future, I hope to work in medical device design or prosthetics. CU С��Ƶ has helped prepare me beyond an educational standpoint by providing opportunities to get involved outside of class and make valuable connections.

Now that you are graduating, what's your best advice for other students?

Take advantage of the opportunities CU has to offer, whether it's research, clubs, internships, or design projects. Explore different areas, even if you're unsure at first, and don't be afraid to ask for help.

Seven students from the Paul M. Rady Department of Mechanical Engineering have earned graduating student awards from the College of Engineering and Applied Science in 2025. These awards honor seniors who are nominated by faculty, staff or fellow students for their outstanding contributions to the college and campus community.

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Five mechanical engineering students, affiliates earn NSF recognition

Alexander James Servantez — Mon, 21 Apr 2025 17:42:18 +0000

Five mechanical engineering students, affiliates earn NSF recognition Alexander Jame… Mon, 04/21/2025 - 11:42

Alexander Servantez

The National Science Foundation (NSF) has recognized five students and affiliates in the Paul M. Rady Department of Mechanical Engineering with Graduate Research Fellowships. These top awards honor and support outstanding graduate students from across the country in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields who are pursuing research-based master’s and doctoral degrees.

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Borden, Rentschler inducted into the AIMBE College of Fellows

Alexander James Servantez — Mon, 31 Mar 2025 19:24:59 +0000

Borden, Rentschler inducted into the AIMBE College of Fellows Alexander Jame… Mon, 03/31/2025 - 13:24

Professors Mark Borden and Mark Rentschler have been inducted into the American Institute for Medical and Biological Engineering (AIMBE) College of Fellows. The program is among the highest professional distinctions given to medical and biological engineers, representing the top 2% of these engineers around the world.

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CU С��Ƶ startup Mesa Quantum earns two major grants to improve navigation infrastructure

Alexander James Servantez — Fri, 21 Mar 2025 16:45:19 +0000

CU С��Ƶ startup Mesa Quantum earns two major grants to improve navigation infrastructure Alexander Jame… Fri, 03/21/2025 - 10:45

For over 20 years, Associate Research Professor Svenja Knappe has focused on developing miniaturized quantum sensors and systems. Now the technology is helping CU С��Ƶ spinout Mesa Quantum commercialize chip-scale quantum solutions that can transform our navigation infrastructure.

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Mukherjee, Vance named 2025 RIO Faculty Fellows

Alexander James Servantez — Thu, 13 Mar 2025 15:53:41 +0000

Mukherjee, Vance named 2025 RIO Faculty Fellows Alexander Jame… Thu, 03/13/2025 - 09:53

Assistant Professor Debanjan Mukherjee and Associate Professor Marina Vance have both been selected as 2025 RIO Faculty Fellows. The program supports faculty in achieving their research and innovation goals and promotes collaboration through tailored training, experiential learning and leadership development opportunities.

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Xiao earns prestigious membership in the National Academy of Inventors

Alexander James Servantez — Wed, 12 Mar 2025 19:16:42 +0000

Xiao earns prestigious membership in the National Academy of Inventors Alexander Jame… Wed, 03/12/2025 - 13:16

Alexander Servantez

Jianliang Xiao is a “mechanics of materials” expert launching innovations in soft materials and flexible electronics. His work recently earned him an exclusive spot amongst some of the most successful academic inventors in the world.

Jianliang Xiao, associate professor of mechanical engineering and senior member of the National Academy of Inventors (NAI).

Xiao, an associate professor in the Paul M. Rady Department of Mechanical Engineering, has been selected as a senior member of the National Academy of Inventors (NAI). The program recognizes rising innovators who have had success securing patents, licensing and commercialization for developed technologies that showcase real impact on the welfare of society.

“I am extremely excited and honored to join this group of incredible innovators as a senior member,” said Xiao, who is also affiliated with the Materials Science and Engineering Program at CU С��Ƶ. “Thank you to the students in my research group for their contributions. We see this not just as recognition, but as stimulation. It encourages us to work harder and make an even greater impact on society in the future.”

The induction comes on the heels of two recent patents that Xiao and his team in the Xiao Research Group have received. The first is a smart and comfortable in-ear device that can detect signals from the brain and facial area to help diagnose sleep disorders.

The second is a series of wearable electronic systems also designed for health monitoring purposes. Not only can they be worn, but they can also be recycled.

According to the World Health Organization, a record 62 million tons of electronic waste was produced globally in just 2022 alone. Xiao says this technology has the power to drastically reduce this number and make way for a cleaner global footprint.

“Our work is focused on a combination of smart materials and flexible electronics,” Xiao said. “Not only do we have patents for these technologies, but startup companies are working to commercialize them so that, hopefully in a few years, they can make a real impact on people’s lives.”

Xiao and his group will continue to fuel their inventive spirit. The team of inventors are actively seeking collaborations with other experts in various disciplines, including healthcare.

But despite his achievement, Xiao remains steady on one principle: it takes a vast ecosystem to have innovative and entrepreneurial success.

“Thank you to the people at the Research and Innovation Office and the Venture Partners at CU С��Ƶ,” said Xiao. “They have offered tremendous support during my journey and nomination.”

This year’s cohort of NAI inductees is the largest since the program’s inception in 2018. Comprised of 162 emerging inventors from institutions across the nation, the collective group is named on over 1,200 U.S. patents.

The 2025 class of senior members will be officially celebrated during the Senior Member Induction Ceremony at NAI’s 14th annual conference in Atlanta, Georgia, from June 23-26.

Associate Professor Jianliang Xiao is a “mechanics of materials” expert launching innovations in soft materials and flexible electronics who has been selected as a senior member in the National Academy of Inventors (NAI). The program recognizes rising innovators who have had success securing patents, licensing and commercialization for developed technologies that showcase real impact on the welfare of society.

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Two undergraduate students receive prestigious aerospace fellowship

Alexander James Servantez — Fri, 07 Mar 2025 20:26:37 +0000

Two undergraduate students receive prestigious aerospace fellowship Alexander Jame… Fri, 03/07/2025 - 13:26

Alexander Servantez

Two undergraduate students in the Paul M. Rady Department of Mechanical Engineering have solidified themselves amongst the future leaders of aerospace.

First-year mechanical engineering student and 2025 Patti Grace Smith Fellow Caleb Woldemichael at Lockheed Martin.

Third-year student Asaiah Gifford and first-year student Caleb Woldemichael were selected as Patti Grace Smith Fellows. The prestigious program is designed to help accelerate the careers of high-achieving Black students across the nation–a population that statistically remains underrepresented throughout the aerospace industry.

This year’s class of fellows featured 176 top-rated students from twenty-four different universities. Recipients of the award receive networking opportunities across the industry, personalized mentorship, a valuable summer internship at one of America’s leading aerospace companies and their share of nearly $500,000 in total scholarships.

“I’m honored to be a Patti Grace Smith Fellow,” said Woldemichael. “Breaking into aerospace can feel impossible and I definitely know what it’s like to be the only person of color in a room full of STEM students. This fellowship gives us a chance to get technical, hands-on experience and connect with other successful fellows throughout the industry.”

The Patti Grace Fellowship selection process is often described as one of the most rigorous in the country. Multiple rounds of screening and interviews with the nation’s most sought after aerospace employers ensures the candidates exhibit extraordinary professional aptitude and proven leadership qualities.

Third-year mechanical engineering student Asaiah Gifford during a Summer Program for Undergraduate Research (SPUR) presentation.

The program’s applicant pool nearly doubled this year, as well, creating an even more competitive landscape than ever before. But Gifford believes the difficulty is what made the process memorable and inspiring.

“During one of my interviews I spoke with one of the fellows from a past class,” she said. “I was able to ask her a few questions about the fellowship and the difference it can make in the industry. She explained the hardships of being a Black engineer and shared how the program helped her push forward. Hearing that really just excited me and helped me have fun with this whole process.”

In 1963, Patti Grace Smith was a plaintiff in a landmark Supreme Court case that integrated public schools in Alabama. She would later go on to have an illustrious aerospace career, leading the Federal Aviation Administration’s Office of Commercial Space Transportation and earning the General James E. Hill Lifetime Space Achievement Award, one of the highest honors awarded to aerospace professionals.

Her perseverance helped break barriers and usher in a new era of educational inclusivity, a legacy that today’s fellows are looking to uphold.

“There have been times where I’ve wondered if I’m good enough. I know what it’s like and I’m only a freshman, so I know I will face more difficulties,” said Woldemichael. “I hope future engineers can see this fellowship and push past this lack of representation, too.”

“This fellowship has taught me that being multifaceted is not a hindrance,” Gifford added. “A lot of people in engineering tend to prioritize only technical expertise, but the person matters, too. The Patti Grace Fellowship cares about how engineering impacts people, and I hope to expand on that going forward.”

Two undergraduate students, third-year Asaiah Gifford and first-year Caleb Woldemichael, were selected as Patti Grace Smith Fellows. The prestigious program is designed to help accelerate the careers of high-achieving Black students across the nation–a population that statistically remains underrepresented throughout the aerospace industry.

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Honors & Awards

CU С����Ƶ students win big at collegiate hydropower competition

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Burleson earns 2025 Exceptional Graduate Faculty Mentor Award

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Jayaram nabs prestigious grants to design insect-inspired, shapeshifting robots

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Seven mechanical engineering students earn graduating student awards

Boston Abrams

Hale Burke

Airyl Van Dayrit

Aaron Kai Groudan

Andrew McCoy

Harrison William Gannon

Shannon Blanco

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Five mechanical engineering students, affiliates earn NSF recognition

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Borden, Rentschler inducted into the AIMBE College of Fellows

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CU С����Ƶ startup Mesa Quantum earns two major grants to improve navigation infrastructure

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Mukherjee, Vance named 2025 RIO Faculty Fellows

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Xiao earns prestigious membership in the National Academy of Inventors

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Two undergraduate students receive prestigious aerospace fellowship

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CU С��Ƶ students win big at collegiate hydropower competition

CU С��Ƶ startup Mesa Quantum earns two major grants to improve navigation infrastructure