NASA Partners with Community College Students for Aviation Innovation
In an inspiring move to harness fresh ideas and burgeoning talent, NASA has opened the doors of opportunity to community college students for the first time through its University Student Research Challenge (USRC) in 2024. This initiative aims to tap into the potential of students from diverse educational backgrounds, promoting inclusivity in the quest for innovative research that aligns with NASA’s transformative vision for 21st-century aviation.
Cerritos Community College Takes the Lead with Project F.I.R.E.
A group of ambitious students from Cerritos Community College in California has been selected to pioneer groundbreaking research in fire management. Their project, known as Project F.I.R.E. (Fire Intervention Retardant Expeller), explores an eco-friendly method of extinguishing wildfires using biodegradable pellets delivered by uncrewed drones. This initiative underscores the vast potential of using modern technology to address pressing environmental challenges.
Angel Ortega, the technical director and lead research engineer for Project F.I.R.E., shared the team’s objective: “Wildfires pose a significant threat today, and our research is focused on demonstrating the capability of our prototype drone to deploy biodegradable fire retardant effectively.” The team aims to prove that these drones can safely extinguish controlled fires, marking a significant advancement in wildfire management.
Expanding Opportunities for Future Innovators
Historically, the USRC has primarily engaged students from four-year institutions. However, the inclusion of a community college team like Cerritos Community College demonstrates NASA’s commitment to broadening access to its resources. This decision aligns with the agency’s mission to equip the next generation of aeronautical innovators with the skills and support needed to drive future advancements.
Steven Holz, the manager overseeing the USRC award process, highlights the diversity of opportunities available: “The University Innovation project provides various avenues for students to contribute to aeronautics. Each opportunity is unique, helping students build knowledge and skills that are invaluable for future endeavors within NASA or the broader field of aeronautics.”
A Timely Initiative Amidst Wildfire Challenges
The recognition of Project F.I.R.E. comes as wildfires continue to ravage communities, including the devastating Los Angeles fires of January 2025. Amidst such turmoil, the team expressed their sympathy for those affected and reaffirmed their dedication to developing innovative solutions that enhance community safety and resilience. “We aim to contribute to a future where communities are better protected against such disasters,” stated the team members.
The Ethos of Public Service and Innovation
The six-member team behind Project F.I.R.E. is driven by a strong commitment to public service. Hailing from southern California, an area frequently impacted by wildfires, the team is motivated to leverage their skills to make a difference. Ortega emphasized the broader vision of their work: “We want to inspire the public to realize that viable solutions exist, and our current efforts are stepping stones toward a comprehensive solution.”
Their cutting-edge research involves deploying biodegradable pellets from autonomous drones into wildfire zones. These pellets, upon contact with the ground, create a foam-like fire retardant solution that effectively combats fires without causing environmental harm after the flames are extinguished. This innovative approach aims to support firefighters and wildland fire managers, enhancing their safety and efficiency in combating natural disasters.
Building on Prior Achievements
Before securing the USRC award, Project F.I.R.E. garnered attention at NASA’s 2024 Gateway to Blue Skies competition, where they were honored with the “Future Game-Changer” award. This competition challenges college students to explore climate-friendly technologies and applications relevant to the future of aviation, fostering a spirit of innovation and collaboration.
Encouraged by their experience at the forum, the team applied for a USRC grant to transform their conceptual vision into a tangible reality. Logan Stahl, the project’s operations director, reflected on their journey: “Our experience with NASA has been incredibly supportive and inspiring. Competing against other schools seemed daunting, but the welcoming atmosphere and engagement we received were completely unexpected.”
From Concept to Reality with USRC Support
The USRC support represents a significant step forward for Project F.I.R.E., allowing the team to transition from conceptual ideas to hands-on development. Larisa Mayoral, the chemical engineer and laboratory operations manager, noted the progression: “Gateway to Blue Skies allowed us to present our ideas. Now, with USRC, we can begin the practical work of bringing our concept to life.”
As community college students, the team expressed gratitude for the opportunity to contribute research at a level comparable to top-tier universities. Paola Mayoral Jimenez, the laboratory coordinator and safety manager, emphasized the importance of this recognition: “We’re grateful to our college and NASA for this opportunity. Through this project, we hope to highlight the potential of community colleges and their students.”
A Path Forward for Aspiring Researchers
For those interested in pursuing similar opportunities, detailed information about USRC awardees and the application process is available on the NASA Aeronautics Research Mission Directorate solicitation page. This resource outlines essential proposal components and submission guidelines, offering aspiring researchers a roadmap to participate in groundbreaking research initiatives.
By including community college students in its research endeavors, NASA is not only advancing its mission but also fostering a diverse and inclusive environment where innovative ideas can flourish. Project F.I.R.E. serves as a testament to the potential of young innovators to drive change and create solutions that address some of the world’s most pressing challenges.
For more details on the initiatives and opportunities available through NASA’s USRC, please visit the NASA Aeronautics Research Mission Directorate solicitation page.
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