​​​​Lemuel Raúl Ríos​ Santiago​​​​

Research Assistant at Sea Grant

March 2026 - Present

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Research Appointment
• Selected as a student researcher for the Interdisciplinary Center for Coastal Studies (CIEL) to support specialized investigations into regional fisheries.

Academic Collaboration
• Partnering with lead investigator Professor Manuel Valdés Pizzini to execute research protocols and synthesize complex environmental and socio-economic data.

Coastal Data Management
• Assisting in the collection and analysis of maritime datasets to support the center’s mission of sustainable coastal development and resource management.

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Site Maintenance & Activity Lead at Municipality of Hormigueros

November 2025 - Present

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Facilities Management & Maintenance
• Execute hands-on upkeep, including cleaning and painting protocols, to ensure the operational readiness of 10 distinct municipal facilities.
• Perform routine visual inspections and address immediate facility needs, contributing to a preventative maintenance schedule designed to minimize operational downtime.

Logistics and Resource Allocation
• Optimize the inventory management and distribution of supplies and equipment necessary for all scheduled municipal activities.
• Administer logistical workflows across a multi-facility network, coordinating critical resources to ensure cross-site synchronization.

Activity and Process Execution
• Lead and support scheduled municipal activities, ensuring seamless execution by adhering to defined process timelines and performance standards.
• Implement standardized facility recovery and turnover procedures to ensure rapid transition between events and maximize facility utilization rates.

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Tutor at ASAP Learning Centers

February 2025 - Present

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Subject-Specific Tutoring
• Provide individualized instruction for middle and high school students in Mathematics (Pre-Algebra, Geometry, Algebra II), Sciences (Biology, Chemistry, Physics), Spanish, and English Language Arts.
• Guide students in essay writing, literary analysis, grammar, and research skills to enhance academic performance across humanities subjects.

Curriculum Development & Instructional Strategies:
• Design customized lesson plans and practice materials tailored to students’ learning styles and academic goals.
• Break down complex STEM and language concepts using visual aids, real-world examples, and interactive problem-solving techniques.
• Integrate practice exams and timed exercises to simulate testing environments for SAT/ACT readiness.

Collaboration & Progress Tracking
• Partner with parents and classroom teachers to align tutoring sessions with school curricula and address learning gaps.
• Monitor student progress through regular assessments and adjust teaching methods to ensure mastery of topics.
• Foster study habits, critical thinking, and self-advocacy skills to promote long-term academic independence.

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Program Manager & Founder at Coquí Career Consulting

February 2020 - Present

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Professional Development Program Design
• Design and facilitate workshops on LinkedIn Optimization, Resume Engineering, and Portfolio Development to enhance participant marketability.
• Lead training sessions in Public Speaking and Personal Branding, focusing on communication impact and professional presence.
• Curate internship resources and career-planning tools to drive holistic growth and professional readiness for participants.

Strategic Institutional Collaborations
• Coordinate with 20+ organizations at UPRM (including IISE, Tau Beta Pi, Alpha Pi Mu, and HFES) to deliver specialized professional resources.
• Manage cross-campus partnerships with UPRH, Inter-American University, and Antillean Adventist University to scale career development initiatives.
• Facilitated agency-wide collaboration with NASA Pathways (PAXC) during the Fall 2020 session to bridge the gap between internships and academic success.

Impact and Performance Metrics
• Empowered diverse cohorts to secure professional and academic opportunities through standardized networking and branding frameworks.
• Enabled participants to develop measurable career competencies, resulting in increased confidence and professional competence.
• Strengthened the professional pipeline for STEM students by integrating industry-standard tools into academic development.

Impact and Achievements
• Empowered participants to unlock professional and academic opportunities.
• Enabled individuals to develop essential career skills, including networking, public speaking, and branding.
• Supported participants in advancing their professional journeys with confidence and competence.

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Water Safety & Operations Lead

May 2024 - Present

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Municipal Swimming Pools of Hormigueros (July 2024 - October 2024, May 2025 - November 2025)

Safety Operations & Risk Mitigation
• Manage safety protocols for swimmers and visitors at municipal aquatic facilities, maintaining a 100% safety record through strict rule enforcement and emergency response.
• Execute critical life-saving procedures, including CPR/AED and First Aid, ensuring immediate crisis management and visitor well-being.
• Oversee crowd control and facility safety for both standard swimming pools and interactive splash pads to minimize operational hazards.

Quality Control & Regulatory Compliance
• Conducted routine chemical analysis and water quality testing to ensure strict adherence to Department of Health and safety standards.
• Monitored environmental variables, including temperature and pH levels, to maintain process stability and user safety.

Facility Maintenance & Systems Reporting
• Perform routine maintenance and preventative checks on facility equipment to ensure uninterrupted service and a positive user experience.
• Identify and report systemic operational issues to management, contributing to long-term facility reliability and infrastructure integrity.

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Operations Associate at Plant Fitness

November 2024 - May 2025

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Training & Process Standardization
• Collaborated on the development and deployment of operational process guides and customer service protocols to ensure facility launch readiness.
• Standardized training procedures for new staff on POS systems and operational best practices, reducing the learning curve and improving team efficiency.
• Engaged in continuous process improvement training to enhance service delivery and cross-functional team contributions.

Customer Intake & Process Mapping
• Acted as the primary point of contact for member relations, utilizing active listening to diagnose and resolve complex account issues.
• Demonstrated effective process mapping for customer intake by conducting detailed tours framed around specific user requirements.
• Managed high-priority inquiries and escalated operational bottlenecks to management for swift resolution, ensuring service continuity.

Operational Management & Lean Principles
• Managed high-volume data entry, billing inquiries, and financial transactions with 100% accuracy using proprietary POS systems.
• Applied 5S principles (Sort, Set in order, Shine, Standardize, Sustain) to the front desk and lobby areas to optimize workspace efficiency and professional presentation.
• Maintained real-time knowledge of service promotions and facility metrics to ensure accurate and reliable information delivery to stakeholders.

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AETC Data & Analytics Analyst at NASA Glenn Research Center

January 2024 - May 2024

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Systems Development & Digital Transformation
• Developed a specialized performance calculator in Dataiku, integrating complex facility data to streamline operational analytics.
• Transitioned the analytical tool to Visual Studio Code (VS Code) to ensure cross-platform accessibility and web integration.
• Utilized GitLab for version control, code management, and collaborative development, ensuring 100% code compatibility across system transitions.

UX/UI Design & GUI Optimization
• Leveraged Excalidraw to wireframe and design user-centric interfaces (GUI), focusing on intuitive data navigation.
• Optimized the Graphical User Interface within Dataiku to enable real-time data execution and dynamic visualization for stakeholders.
• Conducted final deployment reviews to ensure the tool enhanced the AETC website’s data-reporting capabilities.

Operational Logistics & Systems Support
• Managed official documentation and verified service requests, maintaining high standards of information integrity and record accuracy.
• Published critical workshop and event data to official NASA platforms, ensuring synchronized communication across the agency.
• Coordinated with faculty and research leads to address technical service requests, optimizing office workflow and operational efficiency.​

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EGS Human Systems Integration (HSI) Engineer at NASA Glenn Research Center

August 2023 - December 2023

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Human Factors & Systems Engineering
• Contributed to the integration of human capabilities into system design for the Exploration Ground Systems (EGS) Program, focusing on astronaut safety and system performance optimization.
• Documented human factors and Human Rating verification procedures during Emergency Egress System (EES) testing to ensure compliance with NASA safety standards.
• Facilitated updates within the Human Factors Engineering Assessment (HFEA) via the Design Data Management System (KDDMS) to maintain traceability of system requirements.

Technical Documentation & Knowledge Management
• Led the comprehensive revision of the Landing & Recovery (L&R) Reference Guide, implementing critical updates across 10+ program documents to meet Human Rating requirements.
• Developed the Pre-Launch Nominal Crew Ingress Reference Guide in collaboration with HSI leads to streamline planning and testing phases.
• Engineered a centralized video library on the SharePoint platform for Operational Television (OTV) footage, significantly improving team accessibility and data-driven decision-making.

Project Leadership & Cross-Functional Collaboration
• Spearheaded weekly Human Systems Integration (HSI) meetings, coordinating with multi-disciplinary engineers and analysts to track project milestones.
• Partnered with cross-functional teams to optimize workflows and integrate human-centered design principles into the EGS SE&I division.
• Managed the feedback loop between Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) and engineering teams to ensure technical accuracy in all mission-critical documentation.

 

 

Environmental Health Safety Specialist at Claro PR

June 2023 - August 2023

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Safety Infrastructure & Emergency Preparedness
• Enhanced safety and emergency preparedness protocols for three major corporate facilities, ensuring 100% compliance with OSHA standards.
• Modernized facility safety documentation by updating and creating complex evacuation routes using AutoCAD to replace outdated architectural plans.
• Improved emergency response readiness by providing clear, data-driven visuals of safety infrastructure to support rapid administrative decision-making.

Security Systems & Building Analysis
• Collected and analyzed architectural data from multiple buildings to synchronize the GENETEC security system.
• Performed comprehensive security device mapping to ensure accurate real-time tracking of safety assets across the facility network.

Risk Management & Ergonomic Engineering
• Conducted ergonomic assessments and implemented workstation solutions to mitigate physical strain and prevent workplace injuries.
• Applied Quantitative Risk Management practices to evaluate workplace environments, fostering a culture of safety and operational efficiency.
• Recommended engineering controls and administrative improvements to reduce operational hazards and maintain regulatory compliance.

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Scholar at URI Graduate School of Oceanography

June 2023

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Training and Education
• Completed a one-week training session at the University of Rhode Island’s Narragansett Bay Campus, focusing on oceanographic research and instrumentation.

Ocean Exploration and Data Collection
• Participated in a multi-day ocean cruise to explore the oceans, test new ocean instrumentation, and collect oceanographic data.
• Familiarized with instruments such as CDT and Niskin water samplers, learning data collection, interpretation, and practical applications.

Ocean Safety and Protocols
• Acquired knowledge of ocean safety and boat operations, ensuring safe and effective research practices.
• Learned and adhered to URI/GSO sampling protocols to ensure standardized and reliable data collection.

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Undergraduate Researcher at Puerto Rico Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation (PR-LSAMP)

August 2022 - June 2023

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STEM Research & Academic Mentorship
• Participated in the PR-LSAMP program to advance STEM research excellence and increase the retention of underrepresented students in graduate-level engineering studies.
• Engaged in cross-departmental initiatives to foster a culture of undergraduate research and peer mentoring within the University of Puerto Rico.

Project: Measuring Factors that Correlate with Autism Disorders and Viral Respiratory Infections (Aug 2022 – Dec 2022)
• Utilized the NIH "All of Us" database to conduct health informatics research, focusing on personalized medical treatments through data-driven analysis.
• Collaborated with the Industrial Engineering and Biology Departments to perform statistical correlation analysis and identify key disease factors.
• Synthesized large datasets to establish a foundation for predictive modeling in personalized healthcare systems.

Project: Time-Delayed Correlation of Two Time Series Through Class-Based Forecasting: The COVID-19 Case in Puerto Rico (Jan 2023 – Jun 2023)
• Developed an innovative class-based forecasting method to analyze time-delayed correlations between COVID-19 positivity rates and hospitalization trends.
• Engineered a predictive technique designed to minimize assumptions, enabling rapid dissemination of findings for public health response.
• Applied Time-Series Analysis to improve pandemic response effectiveness, demonstrating the application of IE principles in biological and social systems.

Professional Development & Outreach
• Selected to attend the 2023 National Diversity in STEM (NDiSTEM) Conference, participating in professional development sessions and technical research presentations.
• Represented the PR-LSAMP chapter in multicultural STEM forums to facilitate academic partnerships and professional growth.

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For more information, you can access the site here (Google Drive Link)

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Head of Public Relations at Consejo de Estudiantes de la Facultad de Ingeniería

August 2022 - November 2022

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Strategic Communication Planning
• Developed and implemented communication plans to publicize engineering projects and events to students, faculty, and external stakeholders.
• Ensured all PR materials aligned with the department’s values and supported its strategic goals.

Spokesperson & Messaging
• Acted as the primary spokesperson, delivering clear and engaging messaging on behalf of the Engineering Department.

Content Creation & Distribution
• Crafted and distributed press releases and social media content to highlight key achievements and upcoming events.

Collaboration & Partnerships
• Collaborated with student organizations and university departments to promote joint initiatives and build a cohesive communication strategy.

Media Relations
• Managed media inquiries and maintained relationships with student and local media outlets.

Event Management
• Organized events, workshops, and campaigns to foster engagement between engineering students and the university community.

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Business Performance Analyst at AMGEN Manufacturing Limited (AML)

February 2022 - November 2022

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Training Development & Human Performance (HuP)
• Designed and deployed specialized learning aids for the Error Prevention Academy, utilizing Smartsheet, Miro, and Office 365 to institutionalize Human Performance (HuP) tools.
• Instructed cross-functional teams on Root Cause Analysis (RCA) methodologies, including 5-Whys, Six Boxes, and Reader-Doer protocols to mitigate operational human error.
• Oversaw the on-floor application of HuP tools, ensuring standardized execution and monitoring adoption via automated tracking systems.

Operational Leadership & Change Management
• Orchestrated and delivered technical training for 27+ staff members, achieving a 90% engagement rate across Upstream, Downstream, and Plant Quality Assurance departments.
• Managed complex scheduling for 24/7 operations, coordinating both day and night sessions to ensure total workforce alignment with quality standards.
• Facilitated the transition to digital tracking by centralizing training metrics within Smartsheet to streamline executive reporting.

Data Analytics & Dashboard Development
• Engineered Real-Time Dashboards in Smartsheet to track Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), including task performance, process deviations, and "major offender" error categories.
• Utilized Pareto Analysis to generate weekly performance capsules, identifying high-risk areas such as labeling and expiration tracking to drive targeted interventions.
• Developed flowcharts and decision-making algorithms to advance Process Maturity and align operational data with annual corporate business objectives.

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Industrial Engineering Mentor at National Science Foundation (NSF)

May 2021 - May 2022

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Project: Pathways to Success (RUMbos para el Éxito - PÓRTICO) Sponsored by the US Department of Education (PPOHA Program #P031S160247)

Human Capital Development & Mentorship
• Mentored a cohort of 9 undergraduate Industrial Engineering freshmen during the 2021-2022 academic year, facilitating their transition into a rigorous engineering curriculum.
• Conducted periodic performance reviews and feedback sessions to identify academic bottlenecks and provide strategic guidance on resource navigation.
• Served as a technical and professional resource, ensuring students mastered foundational IE concepts and organizational tools early in their academic careers.

Strategic Resource Allocation
• Coordinated student access to institutional academic resources, tutoring, and laboratory facilities to optimize learning outcomes and retention rates.
• Developed and implemented "Success Roadmaps" for mentees, helping them overcome systemic challenges and administrative hurdles within the university ecosystem.
• Collaborated with the NSF-sponsored PÓRTICO program leads to align mentorship activities with broader institutional goals of increasing Hispanic representation in STEM.

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Student Representative before the Administrative Board of UPR-Mayagüez

July 2021 - January 2022​​

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Governance & Strategic Planning
• Elected as the primary Student Representative with 54.10% of the vote, representing a constituency of over 12,000 students within the University’s highest governing body.
• Contributed to the drafting, review, and optimization of institutional project proposals and comprehensive budget plans to ensure fiscal responsibility and resource alignment.
• Assisted in high-level decision-making for faculty and staff logistics, including the evaluation of promotions, academic licenses, and administrative appointments.

Policy Development & Ad Hoc Committee Leadership
• Played a key role in the continuous improvement of university policies, focusing on standardizing administrative practices and institutional bylaws.
• Led and monitored progress for Ad Hoc Committees, refining organizational objectives to address time-sensitive institutional challenges and bottlenecks.
• Collaborated with cross-functional committees to achieve long-term strategic goals and improve the "Student-as-a-Customer" experience within the university system.

Regulatory Compliance & Communications
• Ensured strict adherence to Robert’s Rules of Order and university regulations during parliamentary sessions to maintain process integrity and legal compliance.
• Drafted and implemented formal Institutional Resolutions that reshaped university operations and academic policy.
• Managed formal stakeholder communications and follow-ups, ensuring 100% documentation accuracy for all board-level decisions.​

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For more information, you can access the site here (Google Drive Link)

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Administrative Assistant at UPR-Mayagüez's Budget Office

September 2021 - December 2021

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Communication Management
• Efficiently managed incoming phone calls, documented detailed messages, and ensured prompt information dissemination.
- Facilitated seamless communication by delivering official correspondence across university offices.

Document Management
• Organized, filed, and distributed official documents to maintain accurate and accessible records.
• Created, edited, and formatted documents using Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access).
• Assisted in updating and maintaining departmental webpages.

Data Management
• Maintained and updated departmental databases, ensuring data accuracy and accessibility.

Inventory Management
• Conducted monthly inventory audits to monitor and replenish office supplies and resources.

Reception Support
• Provided front-desk support by greeting visitors, addressing inquiries, and ensuring a professional reception experience.

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Flag Football Instructor at TARZAN & JANE’S SUMMER CAAMp 

July 2021

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Instruction & Coaching
• Led engaging flag football sessions for children aged 5 to 17, adapting drills and gameplay to suit varying skill levels.
• Taught fundamental techniques, rules, and strategies of flag football to promote skill development and teamwork.

Child Supervision & Safety
• Ensured a safe and inclusive environment by supervising participants during practices and games, enforcing camp and safety rules.
• Responded promptly to minor injuries and communicated with camp staff or guardians when necessary.

Team Building & Engagement
• Fostered a positive team atmosphere by encouraging sportsmanship, collaboration, and personal growth among campers.
• Designed team-building exercises to enhance group dynamics and camper confidence.

Program Development
• Planned daily lesson objectives and age-appropriate flag football activities that aligned with camp goals and schedules.
• Adjusted plans in real-time to accommodate weather changes, group energy levels, and camper needs.

Communication & Collaboration
• Communicated effectively with fellow instructors and camp leadership to coordinate schedules and share camper progress.
• Provided guidance and encouragement to campers, ensuring a fun and educational experience for all age groups.

Equipment & Field Management
• Set up and maintained equipment and field areas before and after activities to ensure safety and readiness.
• Conducted regular checks to ensure inventory of flags, cones, and other sports materials was complete and functional.

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Human Factors Chair at NASA SUITS Challenge (UPRM Prodigy Team)

October 2020 - June 2021

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Project: ARCHER Augmented Reality System (UPRM Prodigy Team)

Human Factors & Cognitive Ergonomics
• Coordinated comprehensive ergonomic assessments and project health analyses to evaluate physical and cognitive interactions with Augmented Reality (AR) interfaces.
• Engineered optimization strategies for Microsoft HoloLens integration, focusing on field-of-view (FOV) clarity, device ergonomics, and cognitive load reduction for astronauts during Extravehicular Activities (EVAs).
• Applied Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) principles to ensure real-time surface navigation and vitals data were accessible without compromising user situational awareness.

 

Usability Testing & Iterative Design
• Designed and executed structured usability protocols with volunteer participants to validate system performance against rigorous mission requirements.
• Led Iterative Design Reviews, utilizing participant feedback to refine gesture controls, interface transparency, and system functionality.
• Conducted root cause analysis on user errors within the AR environment to implement interface interventions and improve system reliability.

NASA Technical Engagement
• Achieved National Finalist status, leading to the selection for on-site system testing and evaluation at NASA’s Johnson Space Center.
• Presented technical findings and system architecture to NASA Subject Matter Experts (SMEs), demonstrating the system’s readiness for lunar mission simulation.
• Collaborated with multidisciplinary engineering teams to integrate hardware and software components into a seamless, mission-critical user interface.

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Industrial Engineering Guidance Student at UPR-Mayaguez

May 2019 - June 2021

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Onboarding & Change Management
• Orchestrated the academic and social onboarding for a cohort of 25–30 first-year Industrial Engineering students, facilitating a seamless transition into a high-intensity engineering environment.
• Managed retention strategies by providing data-driven academic support and proactive intervention, ensuring the successful integration of mentees into the university system.
• Served as a peer leader and organizational role model, establishing a standardized support framework for underrepresented and first-year engineering students.

Performance Workshops & Resource Optimization
• Designed and facilitated technical workshops on time management optimization, study methodologies, and course sequence planning to enhance student throughput and academic performance.
• Acted as a centralized information hub for university services and extracurricular opportunities, optimizing the utilization of campus resources.
• Developed instructional materials to clarify departmental expectations and streamline the navigation of complex academic requirements.

Systems Collaboration & Reporting
• Collaborated with faculty advisors and program coordinators to align mentorship deliverables with departmental strategic initiatives.
• Contributed to the Continuous Improvement (CI) of the mentoring program by collecting feedback data and reporting on student success metrics to program leadership.
• Managed cross-functional communication between students and faculty, identifying systemic bottlenecks and referring mentees to appropriate university support channels for specialized resolution.

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Scholar & PLTL Mentor at National Science Foundation (NSF)

October 2018 - May 2021

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Project: Program for Engineering Access, Retention, and Success Sponsored by the National Science Foundation (NSF Grant #DUE 1833869)

Peer-Led Team Learning (PLTL) & Knowledge Transfer
• Served as an Industrial Engineering PLTL Mentor, facilitating collaborative problem-solving sessions to improve student performance in core engineering coursework.
• Translated complex theoretical concepts into actionable study frameworks, enhancing the retention and academic success of peer cohorts.
• Developed instructional strategies to bridge the gap between classroom theory and practical engineering applications.

Recognition & Achievement Highlights
• Inducted into the Engineering Honor Roll for sustained academic excellence throughout the PEARLS program.
• Recognized as a Student Association Leader for contributing to the organizational growth of the university’s engineering community.
• Awarded First Place in the NASA RASC-AL Competition, demonstrating elite-level proficiency in aerospace systems design and interdisciplinary collaboration.
• Commended for "Special Project Participation" regarding technical contributions to NASA-sponsored research and development initiatives.

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Public Relations Specialist at Biotechnology Applications for Space Exploration (B.A.S.E.) UPRM

September 2020 - January 2021

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Strategic Communications & Public Outreach
• Spearheaded communication campaigns to increase visibility of BASE’s transdisciplinary space biology initiatives across UPRM and broader academic communities.
• Drafted, edited, and disseminated newsletters, event flyers, and social media content to promote participation in symposia, international competitions, and research showcases.

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Cross-Organizational Collaboration
• Represented BASE in joint meetings between AEBI and SEDS-UPRM to ensure aligned messaging and shared objectives for the organization’s public image and event promotion.
• Collaborated with faculty advisors and external partners to support the launch of outreach initiatives and academic presentations related to biotechnology in space environments.

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Event Promotion & Academic Engagement
• Promoted student-led research projects by coordinating media efforts for BASE’s participation in conferences, including abstract calls, graphic design, and digital campaigns.
• Supported the planning and publicity of BASE’s participation in academic events, highlighting projects in space medicine, bioinstrumentation, and life sciences in microgravity.

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Science Communication & Community Impact
• Translated complex scientific concepts into accessible content to engage both academic and non-academic audiences through BASE’s outreach channels.
• Helped expand the organization's reach by fostering engagement from students of diverse backgrounds and disciplines interested in the intersection of biotechnology and space exploration.

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Systems Development, Data Mining, and Knowledge Discovery Project at NASA's Kennedy Space Center (KSC)

August 2020 - December 2020

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Process Automation & Tool Engineering
• Engineered and deployed a VBA-based automation tool designed to crawl and index multi-format documentation (Excel, Word, PowerPoint) across complex directory structures.
• Developed a dual-interface system (GUI and Command-Button) to optimize ergonomic usability and accommodate varying user technical proficiencies.
• Built the tool using modular programming principles, ensuring the system remains scalable for future NASA documentation formats and metadata requirements.

Technical Project Management
• Facilitated weekly technical reviews with NASA mentors and SMEs to perform Iterative Development and incorporate user-centric feedback.
• Delivered formal technical presentations to project stakeholders, detailing system architecture, search algorithms, and deployment milestones.
• Documented tool logic and user manuals to ensure Knowledge Management continuity within the department.

Outreach Leadership & Organizational Development (NASA PAXC)
• Appointed as Outreach Chair for the NASA Pathways Agency Cross-Center Collaboration (PAXC), leading a cross-functional team of interns.
• Directed the Social Media and Yearbook Committees, managing the design and content strategy for official NASA intern digital platforms.
• Engineered a centralized Peer Recognition System (Intern of the Month) and a biweekly SharePoint communication network to improve engagement and morale across the national intern cohort.​

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Virtual Venture in Management Participant at Harvard Business School

June 2020 

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Business Case Analysis & Strategic Thinking
• Participated in business case method discussions, engaging with real-world scenarios to explore decision-making frameworks and strategic thinking as practiced in MBA programs.

Professional Networking & Insights
• Took part in Q&A sessions with Harvard Business School alumni and industry professionals, gaining insights into career paths, leadership development, and graduate school preparation.

Graduate School Preparation
• Attended admissions and program overview sessions hosted by HBS representatives to better understand the application process, program expectations, and academic environment of Harvard Business School.

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Mission Concept Academy (MCA) Scholar NASA L'SPACE Program

May 2020 - August 2020

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Systems Integration & Administrative Leadership
• Oversaw the integration of internal systems and documentation workflows, ensuring seamless coordination between scientific, engineering, and administrative sub-roles.
• Conducted rigorous Quality Control (QC) on all administrative deliverables to ensure 100% accuracy and alignment with NASA mission requirements.
• Facilitated cross-functional communication between technical leads and project management to synchronize project milestones and mitigate operational bottlenecks.

Budgetary Engineering & Resource Constraints
• Engineered a comprehensive mission budget within a $100M constraint, meticulously integrating costs for hardware components, launch logistics, and scientific instrumentation.
• Managed critical system trade-offs to ensure fiscal planning remained aligned with technical mass (180 kg) and volume constraints for lunar rover deployment.
• Utilized cost-estimation models to predict expenditure for advanced instrumentation, including SHERLOC, REMS, and ADRON-RM systems.

Scientific Research & Site Analysis Coordination
• Supported the strategic selection and analysis of the Midway lunar landing site (18.3N, 77.1E), focusing on hydrogen deposits and biosignature identification.
• Coordinated research efforts on geological and atmospheric properties, including the analysis of fluvial-lacustrine deposits and carbonate minerals.
• Synthesized complex scientific data into technical reports to justify mission scope and support the conceptual development of large-scale rover operations.

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Student Delegate at Engineering Faculty at UPR-Mayagüez

​February 2020 - August 2020

 

Student Advocacy & Stakeholder Liaison
• Served as an elected representative for the College of Engineering, acting as a strategic liaison between a high-volume student body and university executive leadership.
• Synthesized student feedback regarding academic policies and resource availability into actionable reports for faculty and institutional authorities.
• Managed critical communication channels to ensure transparency between the administration and the student population during the 2019–2020 term.

Policy Analysis & Rights Protection
• Actively participated in council sessions to advocate for academic fairness and policy transparency, ensuring institutional changes aligned with student rights and professional standards.
• Contributed to the development of legislative proposals aimed at optimizing administrative procedures and enhancing the overall student experience within the Faculty of Engineering.
• Leveraged parliamentary procedures to influence decision-making processes and protect the interests of engineering cohorts.

Collaboration & Systems Problem-Solving
• Facilitated collaborative problem-solving and respectful dialogue to resolve complex student conflicts and institutional challenges.
• Partnered with cross-functional council members to draft formal proposals and coordinate peer feedback loops for continuous improvement of student services.
• Supported strategic initiatives focused on the long-term advancement of engineering education and campus infrastructure.

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Lead Mentor & STEM Instructor at RealTimePC ININ UPRM

​May 2019 - July 2020

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Technical Instruction & Workshop Design
• Developed and implemented Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for engineering workshops, optimizing instructional clarity and resource efficiency for high-volume student groups.
• Delivered technical seminars on Quality Engineering and Human Factors & Ergonomics, translating complex Industrial Engineering principles into accessible modules for secondary education.
• Led a virtual laboratory session in 2020 where students engineered scaled automation models using sustainable materials, maintaining high engagement in a remote learning environment.
• Facilitated a "Human Ergonomics Design Challenge," guiding participants through the prototype development of functional medical casts.

Strategic Outreach & Marketing
• Executed a multi-channel marketing strategy that successfully secured 40 participants for the in-person summer camp, managing brand messaging and digital outreach.
• Promoted gender inclusion in STEM by mentoring high school girls (grades 9–11) during Girl’s Day, focusing on the professional opportunities within Industrial Engineering.
• Coordinated with business and marketing divisions to support student teams in the development of final project proposals and technical presentations.

Leadership & Recognition
• Key Achievement: Awarded the Emerging Leader Award (2019) for excellence in mentorship, logistical coordination, and demonstrated leadership within the Industrial Engineering Summer Camp.
• Mentored a cohort of 27+ high school students, providing academic testimony and professional guidance to foster the next generation of Puerto Rican engineers.

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Human Integrated Design (HID) Division Team Leadert at NASA RASC-AL

​August 2019 - June 2020

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Project: EMPRESS Multipurpose Lunar Rover
Awarded: First Place Overall & First Place in South Pole Multipurpose Rover Theme

Ergonomics & Anthropometric Engineering
• Led the Human Integration Design (HID) Division in the conceptual development of the EMPRESS lunar rover, overseeing the integration of human-centric systems.
• Designed inclusive astronaut seating architectures utilizing anthropometric data and RULA (Rapid Upper Limb Assessment) tools to optimize safety, comfort, and ingress/egress efficiency.
• Engineered a specialized seatbelt system utilizing a hook-bar mechanism and Thermal Micrometeoroid Garment (TMG) compatibility to mitigate EVA risks and ensure physical security in lunar gravity.
• Applied NASA-STD-3001 and the NASA Human Integration Design Handbook to optimize handhold placement and crew interface ergonomics.

Interface Design & Cognitive Systems
• Developed an intuitive analog-digital hybrid display system, utilizing high-legibility color palettes and simplified iconography for extreme lighting conditions.
• Integrated real-time data visualizations for astronaut vitals, radiation exposure, and Mastcam-Z telemetry, reducing cognitive load during high-stress mission phases.
• Validated interface designs against lunar environmental constraints, specifically addressing visual degradation from lunar dust and high-frequency vibrations.

Project Management & Stakeholder Engagement
• Coordinated cross-functional workflows between engineering and science leads to ensure 100% design alignment with NASA mission requirements.
• Directed team meetings, milestone deliverables, and technical reporting, maintaining a rigorous communication loop with NASA engineers and competition organizers.
• Authored high-standard technical documentation and final presentations, contributing to the project’s selection as the premier entry in a national field.

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Participant at NASA International Space Apps Challenge

May 2020

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Human Systems Modeling & Data Analytics
• Orchestrated the development of "L’Destination," a risk-mitigation platform designed to correlate COVID-19 case density with environmental variables and human behavioral patterns.
• Analyzed complex geospatial datasets from NASA SEDAC and Sentinel-Hub EO Browser, evaluating the impact of population density, humidity, and temperature on disease transmission rates.
• Integrated county-level social distancing metrics with Earth Observation (EO) data to build a predictive risk matrix for travel safety.

UX Engineering & Interface Design
• Engineered a user-centric dashboard using Tableau and MATLAB, allowing users to perform real-time safety comparisons across U.S. coastal regions.
• Developed high-fidelity mockups in Autodesk Sketchbook, integrating public health guidelines and live API updates to support informed decision-making.
• Conducted exploratory data analysis (EDA) in Microsoft Excel to validate prototype logic and ensure the scientific validity of safety ratings.

Agile Leadership & Technical Adaptation
• Directed a geographically distributed team via Zoom and Discord, managing project milestones under an intensive 48-hour hackathon schedule.
• Executed a strategic technical pivot from machine learning to User-Centered Design, prioritizing technical feasibility and immediate public health utility.
• Global Recognition: Project successfully advanced to the Global Judging round, representing the top tier of interdisciplinary solutions in a field of 2,000+ international teams.

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Door and Mezzanine Assistant at UPRM's Swimming, Tennis, and Racquetball Complex

​September 2019 - May 2020

Facility Maintenance & Operations
• Maintained tennis courts by regularly cleaning and organizing spaces to ensure optimal conditions for practice and official use.
• Supported overall facility upkeep, contributing to a safe and professional environment for both recreational and competitive activities.

Event & Athlete Support
• Managed documentation and logistics for student-athletes and event participants during official court reservations and athletic events.
• Ensured compliance with professional standards during event use, supporting a high-quality experience for all users.

Administrative Support & Data Management
• Assisted with gym-related operations by processing participant forms and supporting daily administrative needs.
• Used Microsoft Excel to manage and update membership databases, keeping accurate records of participant information and access rights.

Logistics & Safety Coordination
• Collaborated in the coordination of event logistics, including preparation, scheduling, and on-site support for campus-hosted activities.
• Secured court areas and conducted final safety checks prior to closing hours, promoting user safety and facility integrity.

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Chapter Lead at MEDLIFE

​August 2019 - May 2020

 

Healthcare Logistics & Clinical Support
• Contributed to the operational success of mobile clinics in Tena, Ecuador, supporting triage and health services for a patient volume of 504 individuals within a one-week period.
• Shadowed multidisciplinary professionals in General Medicine, Pharmacy, and Nutrition, gaining technical insight into diagnostic workflows and patient record management.
• Managed medical supply distribution and clinic logistics in rural sectors of Maricao, Puerto Rico, ensuring the efficient flow of essential resources to high-need populations.
• Facilitated patient intake and assessed community health data to optimize clinic attendance and resource allocation for future outreach missions.

Infrastructure & Community Development
• Participated in the Humanitarian Engineering of a residential project for a family with disabilities, contributing to structural construction and long-term community development.
• Delivered public health workshops focused on preventive care and sanitation, utilizing Instructional Design to bridge communication gaps in international settings.
• Collaborated with cross-functional global teams to perform needs assessments, identifying systemic healthcare disparities and proposing logistical solutions.

Environmental Impact & Leadership
• Recognized as Member of the Month (August–September) for exceptional engagement and leadership in chapter-led fundraising and outreach initiatives.
• Executed environmental sustainability projects in coordination with the Scuba Dogs Society, managing logistics for large-scale beach cleanup operations in Mayagüez.

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Vice President of Management at bioX

​May 2019 - January 2020

 

Strategic Marketing & Outreach Operations
• Directed comprehensive marketing campaigns for Lilly del Caribe-sponsored initiatives, leveraging multi-channel digital strategies to reach a target audience of 56,000+ individuals.
• Executed high-impact informational seminars, successfully engaging over 100+ students to drive recruitment and interest in the biomedical innovation pipeline.
• Led the creative direction and graphic design for organizational branding, significantly increasing visibility across campus and professional digital platforms.

Operational Consulting & Process Optimization
• Acted as an internal consultant to optimize organizational workflows, utilizing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to streamline the execution of recurring workshops and info-sessions.
• Standardized official documentation and communication protocols to align with university and corporate sponsor compliance standards.
• Facilitated the planning and delivery of interdisciplinary networking events, connecting students with industry leaders and professional development opportunities.

Technical Project Management & Sponsorship
• Oversaw the operational management of specialized research projects, including 3D Bioprinting and Insulin Delivery Systems, ensuring alignment with strategic milestones.
• Identified and secured high-level partnerships by negotiating with potential corporate sponsors and mentors to support student-led research initiatives.
• Managed the administrative lifecycle of the organization, coordinating between sub-committees to ensure timely delivery of project objectives and financial reporting.​​​​​

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Operations & Lean Implementation Assistant at Colegio Racing Engineering (FSAE)

​January 2019 - May 2019

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Operations & Lean Methodology Implementation
• Led the implementation of the 5S methodology through interactive workshops and dynamic group activities, improving organization, efficiency, and safety across engineering workspaces.
• Applied Total Preventive Maintenance (TPM) systems to optimize the understanding of manufacturing processes, reduce downtime, and enhance procedural consistency for team members.

Data Management & Resource Optimization
• Developed a comprehensive Excel database of local suppliers, categorized by name, type, location (with Google Maps links), phone number, and point of contact details to streamline procurement.
• Created an annual cost projection report, improving tracking of team expenses by categorizing expenditures by month, location, quantity, and cost, enhancing budgeting accuracy and transparency.

Logistics & Technical Coordination
• Coordinated STEM, testing, and team logistics to ensure alignment across mechanical, electrical, and project management functions.
• Supported the development and implementation of online ordering and inventory systems to maintain workflow efficiency and avoid production delays.

STEM Outreach & Team Representation
• Participated in STEM outreach initiatives, representing the Formula SAE team in events aimed at inspiring future engineers and promoting hands-on engineering education.

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Administrative Assistant at UPRM's Professional Enrichment Center (CEP)

​September 2018 - May 2019

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Document Preparation & Management
• Created and customized PowerPoint presentations for webinars focused on graduate student development and academic advancement.
• Developed, reviewed, and printed official documentation with a strong emphasis on accuracy, formatting, and institutional standards.
• Edited and validated assistance and service documents to ensure accurate record-keeping and compliance with administrative protocols.

Communication & Support Services
• Coordinated document distribution via email and in person to faculty members, ensuring timely communication and responsiveness.
• Delivered in-person and phone assistance, addressing service-related inquiries and requests with professionalism and efficiency.

Office Organization & Event Coordination
• Maintained a well-organized office environment, supporting professional operations and smooth service delivery.
• Managed the publication of workshop and event dates on the official website, ensuring accessible and timely information for students and faculty.

Order Management & Verification
• Verified and processed product and service orders, ensuring accurate documentation and prompt delivery.
• Supported internal workflows by tracking order status and maintaining communication with involved departments.

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Undergraduate Student Researcher at Instituto Universitario para el Desarrollo de las Comunidades

​August 2018 - December 2018

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Humanitarian Logistics & Crisis Management
• Deployed as part of a specialized interdisciplinary team to the Los Naranjales community (Las Marías) to lead post-disaster recovery and resilience mapping following Hurricane María.
• Conducted comprehensive Field Needs Assessments, performing door-to-door diagnostic interviews to identify critical system failures in food security, housing safety, and public health.
• Orchestrated a localized Supply Chain for 15–20 high-risk families, coordinating with international NGOs (ADRA, AMSA, CPM) to deploy mobile health clinics and essential resources.
• Engineered a community census and housing inventory to provide mentors and government stakeholders with actionable data for long-term reconstruction and material allocation.

Strategic Infrastructure & Resilience Training
• Participated in the ReImagina Puerto Rico conference, hosted by the UPRM-DHS Coastal Resilience Center of Excellence, focusing on actionable rebuild recommendations.
• Engaged in high-level workshops sponsored by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), contributing to strategic dialogues on sustainable coastal infrastructure and post-disaster recovery frameworks.
• Completed certified training in Infrastructure Resiliency Strategies, focusing on the intersection of urban planning and emergency management systems.

Community Engagement & Systemic Resilience
• Developed long-term sustainability strategies for rural communities, focusing on transition models from emergency aid to self-sufficiency and resilience.
• Facilitated stakeholder trust-building initiatives to ensure high data accuracy during field research and census operations.
• Proposed follow-up intervention frameworks to IUDC directors, aiming to scale support models across other disaster-impacted sectors in Puerto Rico.

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Summer Intern at Hospital de la Concepcion

June 2018​

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Selective Admission & Program Overview
• Selected as one of 20 top high school students across southwestern Puerto Rico for the Medical Experience program, a fully funded initiative by Hospital de la Concepción aimed at introducing students to the medical profession through immersive hospital-based training.
• Admission was based on academic index, letters of recommendation, and a personal essay highlighting motivation and commitment to the health field.

Clinical Rotations & Patient Care Exposure
• Completed 40+ hours per week over a 4-week period, shadowing hospital staff and assisting across multiple departments.
• Gained hands-on experience supporting emergency room (ER) teams, as well as Pre-Op, intraoperative, and Post-Op procedures, under the supervision of licensed physicians and nurses.
• Participated in ward rounds and inpatient care, developing observational and communication skills essential for future healthcare roles.

Specialty & Ancillary Department Experience
• Rotated through diverse hospital areas, including Pediatrics, Surgery, Emergency Medicine, and Ancillary Services such as Radiology, Nuclear Medicine, Hyperbaric Medicine, Physical Therapy, and Laboratory Services.
• Observed cross-functional hospital workflows, deepening understanding of how medical, diagnostic, and therapeutic teams collaborate.

Community Health & Certification
• Engaged in community service activities and educational workshops, promoting health awareness and public service.
• Earned CPR and DEA certifications, enhancing emergency response preparedness and professional development in the medical field.

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Researcher Presenter at Individualized Study Method Corp  (I.S.M.)

May 2018, June 2018​

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Scientific Research & Public Speaking
• Presented original research titled “Behavior of Liquids in Pathways with Wave-Shaped Walls under the Effects of Microgravity” at the Inaugural Puerto Rico ISM Research Symposium.
• Created and delivered a PowerPoint presentation, showcasing the theoretical implications of microgravity on fluid dynamics and its relevance to space exploration and aerospace systems.

Educational & Professional Development
• Participated in the ISM Educative Circuit, a series of workshops focused on improving student performance through practical strategies.
• Completed training modules in Time Management, Body Language Communication, Study Tools, and Student Resilience, designed to enhance academic and personal effectiveness.

Leadership & Growth Mindset
• Engaged with educators and peers in a collaborative learning environment aimed at strengthening self-discipline, productivity, and communication skills.
• Earned a Certificate of Participation in recognition of commitment to academic excellence and proactive personal development.

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Researcher Project Lead at NASA's CELERE Challenge

February 2018 - May 2018​

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Team Leadership & Project Coordination
• Led a student research team in NASA’s CELERE challenge, coordinating team meetings, task assignments, communication protocols, and project deadlines.
• Acted as the main point of contact with officials from NASA Glenn Research Center and Portland State University, ensuring timely delivery of peer-reviewed progress updates and research documentation.

Experimental Design & CAD Development
• Created a CAD model featuring dissimilar wall configurations using DraftSight™ software to study fluid behavior in microgravity environments.
• Conducted measurement analysis and design validation based on experimental parameters to meet the requirements for drop tower testing.

Data Analysis & Technical Reporting
• Supported the design-to-testing pipeline, collaborating with PSU for the laser-cut fabrication and microgravity testing using the Dryden Drop Tower.
• Authored a formal report of analysis, documenting design rationale, test setup, and experimental conclusions for submission to NASA Glenn Research Center.

Outreach & Recognition
• Submitted the only project from Puerto Rico to the national competition, representing CROEM in a NASA-affiliated research initiative.
• Presented the research project at the Individualized Study Method (ISM) Research Symposium, promoting STEM research and scientific communication among peers.

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Student Researcher at Industrial Engineering Department at UPR-Mayagüez

October 2017 - May 2018​

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Research Development & Data Analysis
• Led a research project focused on the creation of an exposure index to evaluate and compare economic vulnerability across subdivisions in Rincón, PR during flood events.
• Performed an extensive literature review to identify relevant economic indicators and eliminate redundancy in variable selection.
• Extracted and pre-processed data from the U.S. Census Bureau to determine asset distribution within high-risk flood zones.

GIS Mapping & Visualization
• Developed a comparative ArcGIS map to visualize county subdivisions most economically impacted by floods, based on employment, income, and education data.
• Created bar graphs, pie charts, and word clouds to analyze and communicate findings regarding employment, source of income, and educational attainment in flood-prone areas.

Technical Execution & Research Phases
• Structured the project across four phases: indicator selection, data extraction, data processing, and visualization.
• Utilized Microsoft Excel to manage multi-variable data tables and conduct quantitative analysis.

Recognition & Presentation
• Selected as a semifinalist at the Puerto Rico Junior Science and Humanities Symposium (PRJSHS) for research excellence.
• Contributed to regional academic dialogue on flood risk management and infrastructure resilience.

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Student Researcher at CROEM

January 2018 - February 2018​​

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Engineering Design & Technical Proposal Development
• Collaborated on the creation of a Satellite Launching Experimental Device (SLED) designed to autonomously deploy a mock satellite into a moving, targeted zone simulating a Mars orbital insertion.
• Conducted technical research, system design, and mission planning aligned with NASA’s educational simulation goals.
• Drafted and revised a proposal evaluated by faculty mentors for innovation, feasibility, and STEM educational value.

Collaboration & Research Contributions
• Participated in literature reviews to support design decisions and ensure alignment with microgravity experiment requirements.
• Assisted in documenting system logic, potential materials, and testing procedures modeled for simulated space-like conditions.
• Worked with a multidisciplinary team to integrate scientific and educational components into a cohesive proposal.

Recognition & Competitive Outcome
• Team was selected as a Finalist, achieving 2nd place overall among 20 competing teams at the school level.
• Recognized for the proposal’s technical clarity, educational relevance, and alignment with NASA-inspired objectives.

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Community Development Volunteer at ADRA International

May 2017 - June 2017​​

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Humanitarian Assistance & Community Outreach
• Served as part of ADRA’s volunteer team, contributing 40 hours of community service to support individuals and families affected by crises across Puerto Rico.
• Provided direct service to the community, including receiving phone calls and visitors, and coordinating assistance for those in need.

Resource Coordination & Distribution
• Helped organize and classify donated food, clothing, and household supplies, ensuring efficient storage and accessibility for distribution.
• Collaborated with fellow volunteers to deliver aid to local organizations and vulnerable individuals, including the homeless, elderly, and disaster-affected residents.

Service During Crisis & Disaster Relief
• Supported ADRA’s mission of alleviating suffering and promoting dignity in the aftermath of hurricanes and natural disasters.
• Assisted in the provision of essential resources, regardless of age, race, gender, or religion, demonstrating a commitment to inclusivity and compassion in crisis response.