Student Spotlights

Students at the UC Davis College of Engineering impact a wide-ranging field of areas in energy, aerospace, transportation, computer science, medicine and more. Through leadership and involvement in hands-on engineering experiences, our outstanding Aggie Engineers are changing the world.

Meet some of the students, clubs and teams that make up our diverse community. Learn more about their current projects, achievements and aspirations.

Student Spotlights

Chem-E-Car Gains Momentum

After a pandemic pause, UC Davis students are catalyzing a rebuild of Chem-E-Car from the ground up — gel-powered engines, team chemistry and all. With lessons learned and eyes on next year's prize, they are engineering progress, one chemical reaction at a time.

Controlling the (Casimir) Force

As researchers continue to shrink the size of mechanical devices, controlling the Casimir force has become the first priority. At UC Davis, Calum Shelden, a Ph.D. candidate in electrical and computer engineering, is beginning groundbreaking experimentation to test the theories.

Sailing Across STEMSEAS

Computer science and engineering student Siena Marois wants to advance ocean conservation with next-level robotics. In pursuit of that goal, she recently participated in STEAMSEAS, an exclusive opportunity for undergraduates to gain practical knowledge during a six-day cruise on an offshore research vessel.

Where Art Meets Alloy

At UC Davis, a new bladesmithing club is forging more than knives. Led by materials science and engineering major Aaron Diamond, the team is (literally) sharpening hands-on skills and crafting connections.

Playing Doubles

Kaia Wolfe, a third-year mechanical engineering student aces the balance between her passions for outer space and being a Division I tennis player.

The Magicians Behind the MASC

Meet the Materials Science Advantage Chapter, the UC Davis engineering club responsible for Picnic Day’s famous Materials Magic Show — and for bringing attention to the amazing things materials science makes possible.

Bringing an Engineering Mindset to the 111th Picnic Day

Meet the five Aggie Engineers on the 111th Picnic Day board who are bringing their skills, ingenuity and engineering acumen to the (picnic) table to ensure everything from the Doxie Derby to the Chemistry Show is a success at this annual event.

A Conversation Between the Office of Diversity, Equity and Doreen Joseph

From game nights to university committees, Doreen Joseph, a computer science Ph.D. candidate, fosters belonging and support for underrepresented students, shaping a more inclusive academic experience. Learn how she’s driving change at UC Davis.

Thinking Inside of the Box

As climate change becomes an evermore concerning issue, researchers are working to make carbon capture and storage technologies more accessible, stable and environmentally friendly. See how a team of students is taking on the challenge one cubic foot at a time.