E-Lead Inclusive

In our final episode of the season, we explore three powerful films: Deepwater Horizon, Steve Jobs, and Oppenheimer, through an engineering lens. We discuss the real-world engineering themes behind each movie, including safety, innovation, leadership, ethics, responsibility, and the consequences of technical decisions. To close out, we also share movie recommendations for students and anyone interested in seeing how engineering shows up in stories beyond the classroom.

 In this MiniCast Edition, we uncover the true story of the CitiCorp Center in New York. This skyscraper that was secretly at risk of catastrophic failure after engineers discovered a major structural flaw. This episode explores how design decisions, wind forces, and engineering ethics collided, and how quick action helped prevent what could have become one of the most devastating building disasters in modern history. 

In this episode of the E-Lead Inclusive Podcast, we sit down with Joseph Guerra, Christopher Camacho, and Isabel Garcia to explore their experiences as teaching and research assistants within UTEP’s CREaTE program.Through their perspectives, we dive into what it means to support students, engage in engineering education research, and grow as leaders along the way.

The E-Lead Inclusive Podcast is welcoming a new voice. In this episode, Reed Sanchez joins us to share his journey into engineering and leadership. Reed talks about how he got started in engineering, his experiences supporting students as a teaching assistant, and the research work he is involved in today. It is a conversation about growth, mentorship, and what it means to support others along the way.

What would you eat if it were your last day on earth? Dr. Lucas Galey answers that question while reflecting on his German upbringing and his transition to life as a Texan professor. Through food, culture, and personal stories, he shares how identity, leadership, and place shape who we become. 

In this episode, we sit down with Sean Estrada to talk about his incredible journey back to finish his degree. Sean opens up about the different jobs he’s worked, the lessons he’s picked up along the way, and huge personal goals hes accomplished like building a house for his mom. We also dive into his interest in crypto, how he stays informed on regulation updates, and the way he uses that knowledge to help others understand the space. From future career plans to personal growth to everything in between, this conversation is full of honesty, heart, and inspiration.

In this episode, we sat down with Dante Villalobos over sushi to talk about his journey through E-Lead. From his roles as a TA and RA to his internships and plans after graduation, Dante shares the experiences that shaped his leadership path. A truly valued member of the department, this conversation blends real talk, reflection, and growth one sushi roll at a time.

In this episode, we sit down with our friends and classmates Vanesa Carillo and Samahara Quintana to talk about what it’s really like being international students. From the daily border crossing to the challenges they face navigating school in a different country, they open up about their routines, the differences in education, and the personal stories that shaped their journey. Since we take classes together, this episode feels more like hanging out with friends laughing, sharing experiences, and learning about the resilience and heart behind their everyday commute.

In this episode of the E-Lead Inclusive Podcast, hosts Vanessa and Stephanie sit down with Natanael Vera and Jesus Olivas to chat about their journey through engineering classes, the shift from Measurement to P2P, and what it really means to find balance between work, school, and everything in between. From late-night study sessions to favorite matcha orders. This conversation is all about staying grounded, growing together, and embracing every part of the college experience.

In this episode of the E-Lead Inclusive Podcast, hosts Vanessa and Stephanie sit down with Dr. Kyle Gipson, professor of engineering at James Madison University . With a background that spans physics, textile technology, and leadership consulting, Dr. Gipson shares his journey in co-creating one of the first engineering leadership programs at JMU and how that path led him to collaborate with UTEP's E-Elead initiative.

In this episode, we sit down with UTEP alumn Steven Terrazas, an E-Lead major with a Civil Concentration with a passion for innovation and leadership. Steven takes us through his journey from internships at Boeing to research at the University of Arkansas but most importantly, he dives deep into his experience preparing for and passing the FE (Fundamentals of Engineering) exam. Whether you're an engineering student or recent grad, Steven shares practical tips, study strategies, and motivation to help you take the next big step in your career.

In this episode, we explore the U.S. national debt and budget deficit, building on discussions from Dr. G’s finance class. Each of us takes a different stance on how to address the growing debt, from reducing government spending and reforming entitlement programs to increasing taxes and relying more on the private sector. The conversation highlights the complexity of economic trade-offs and the real-world impact of fiscal policy decisions.

In this episode  we sit down with two standout seniors from the E-LEAD program, Jyan Delgadillo and Emmanuel Rodriguez. Jyan, with a focus on Innovation and Nutrition, and Emmanuel, concentrating on Mechanical Engineering and emphasis on  Entrepreneurship, share how they found their way to E-LEAD, what’s kept them in the program, and the lessons they’ve learned along the way. We dive into their experiences with mentorship, the challenges of teamwork, and the highs and lows of their capstone project. 

Dr. Houghtalen joins us to break down the disconnect between academia and industry in engineering, sharing her on going research on what makes (or breaks) a successful transition. We also talk about collaboration in the field, personal passions like music, and the uncomfortable reality of sexism in the workplace—all topped off with a conversation about pizza preferences. Grab a slice and listen in! 

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Kendall to dive into her journey in research and engineering education. She shares insights into her experiences, the challenges and opportunities in the field, and her hopes for the future of engineering education. We also get a glimpse into her favorite music and the STEM figures who have influenced her path. Tune in for an engaging discussion that blends technical expertise with personal passion! 

In this episode, we sit down with Ashley Padilla, a senior student-athlete balancing the intense demands of being a collegiate soccer player and an Engineering Leadership major with a concentration in Biomedical engineering. As she navigates her final year and tackles her capstone senior design project, Ashley shares the highs and lows of managing academics, athletics, and personal growth. From game-winning moments on the field to late-night study sessions, she offers an inside look at what it truly takes to excel in both arenas. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about perseverance, time management, and the mindset required to succeed as a student-athlete in a rigorous engineering program!

In this episode, Vanessa and I explore the positives and negatives of AI, discussing its impact on education, industries, and human culture as technology continues to evolve. Plus, we get a special glimpse into the future with Dr. Gonzalez’s very own AI-generated podcast!

In this episode, we sit down with alumni Maximo Gamez, Jesse Espinoza, and Alejandra Garay to explore life after graduation. The guests share their experiences navigating the transition from college to their professional careers, offering valuable advice for current students on how to prepare for success. From practical career tips to insights into their engineering salaries, this episode provides a transparent and inspiring look at the realities of post-graduate life. Whether you’re a student planning your next steps or simply curious about engineering careers, this episode has something for you.

In this episode of the E-Lead Inclusive Podcast, We dive into a story of unparalleled resilience, collaboration, and engineering innovation: the 2010 Copiapó mining accident in Chile. After a cave-in trapped 33 miners nearly half a mile underground, the world watched with bated breath as engineers, rescuers, and entire communities worked tirelessly for 69 days to bring every miner safely to the surface. Join us as we explore the inspiring efforts behind the rescue, how El Paso’s own mining history connects us to this event, and the engineering and human spirit that made the impossible possible. 

In this episode, Paola Casas, the program coordinator for the Department of Engineering, Education, and Leadership, shares her journey from studying music in Juarez, Mexico, with dreams of becoming an opera singer, to pursuing a career in public health. Paola discusses her passion for helping the community and her experience as a research assistant working with vulnerable populations in El Paso. She also talks about how her love for UTEP led her to her current role as a program coordinator, bridging her background in public health with the world of engineering education.

In this episode,  Stephanie and Vanessa explore the importance of curiosity in shaping how we think and learn. They discuss how curiosity drives progress, with examples from history like Marie Curie and Albert Einstein. The episode also shares practical tips on how to be more curious in everyday life, inspired by the quote from Voltaire: "Judge a man by his questions rather than by his answers."

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Ramirez, the newest member of the Engineering Education and Leadership department. Join us as we explore her academic journey from undergraduate studies to her master's and PhD, and hear about her inspiring return to El Paso. Dr. Ramirez shares her favorite local eateries, insights on transitioning to UTEP, and her experiences in the E-Lead program. Whether you're curious about her educational path or looking for great food recommendations, this episode has something for everyone!

In today’s episode, Vanessa and Stephanie delve into the tragic Hyatt Regency Hotel collapse in Kansas City in 1981. They explore how such a critical engineering mistake could occur and discuss the importance of ethical professionalism. They also offer insights on applying character, competence, and capacity to your everyday career.

Hello, everyone, and welcome back to the fourth season of the E-Lead Inclusive Podcast with your new hosts, Stephanie and Vanessa! Change can be daunting, but we're excited to embrace it together. In this brief introduction, we'll touch on some of the exciting updates you can expect this season. Don’t forget to share your thoughts and suggestions through our virtual suggestion box—just click the Linktree on our E-Lead Instagram. See you next Friday!

Hello Everyone!Welcome to a bittersweet episode as we say goodbye to Amira as our host and welcome Stephanie and Vanessa as the new co-hosts of the E-Lead Inclusive Podcast! Listen to get to know more about Stephanie and Vanessa's background and hear about Amira's journey starting and hosting the podcast! It's the end of an era and the beginning of a new one!To Learn More About Us:https://www.utep.edu/engineering/eel/index.htmlStay Connected:https://www.facebook.com/eleadutep/https://www.instagram.com/e_lead_utep/ Music:♪ Sunset (Prod. by Lukrembo) Link : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gv7hcXCnjOw&t=0s

Welcome back!As a special E-Lead tradition, upon graduation of each E-Lead cohort, we present the Three C Leadership Awards to a senior E-Lead student exemplifying competence, capacity, and character!In this episode, meet and hear the stories of our class of 2024 Three C nominees who have demonstrated exceptional leadership throughout their E-Lead journey!Competence:Pamela Campos-ValleDhanytza GonzalezIan RybakCapacity:Alejandro GonzalezDhanytza GonzalezDavid LepeAmira WilliamsCharacter:Alejandro GonzalezDhanytza GonzalezNoemi OchoaSteven TerrazasAmira WilliamsTo Learn More About Us:https://www.utep.edu/engineering/eel/index.htmlStay Connected:https://www.facebook.com/eleadutep/https://www.instagram.com/e_lead_utep/ Music:♪ Sunset (Prod. by Lukrembo) Link : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gv7hcXCnjOw&t=0s

Howdy!In today's episode, we have Dr. Galey in the hot seat! Listen to hear about his inspiration for pursuing engineering, his time in school (at all levels), why he's referred to as "Swagger", and his work now as a professor, researcher, and Executive Director at LIMBS. This is a jam-packed episode encompassing leadership lessons, adversity, and what it means to serve passionately, and it's exclusively here on the E-Lead Inclusive Podcast! To Learn More About Us:https://www.utep.edu/engineering/eel/index.htmlStay Connected:https://www.facebook.com/eleadutep/https://www.instagram.com/e_lead_utep/ Music:♪ Sunset (Prod. by Lukrembo) Link : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gv7hcXCnjOw&t=0s

Welcome back, everyone! In today's episode, I'm joined by E-Lead alumni and senior design mentor, Aaron Pacheco. We talk about all things ranging from his time in E-Lead, his career at Halliburton, leadership styles, mentorship, and the impacts of AI. It's a good one; you don't want to miss it!To Learn More About Us:https://www.utep.edu/engineering/eel/index.htmlStay Connected:https://www.facebook.com/eleadutep/https://www.instagram.com/e_lead_utep/ Music:♪ Sunset (Prod. by Lukrembo) Link : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gv7hcXCnjOw&t=0s

Who you gonna call? ELEAD MYTHBUSTERS!Hey y'all!  In this episode, Dr. G and I tackle common E-Lead myths we've heard and are setting the record straight on UTEP's most innovative degree! You don't want to miss it!To Learn More About Us:https://www.utep.edu/engineering/eel/index.htmlStay Connected:https://www.facebook.com/eleadutep/https://www.instagram.com/e_lead_utep/ Music:♪ Sunset (Prod. by Lukrembo) Link : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gv7hcXCnjOw&t=0s

Hey you, welcome back! Today, Celena Arreola, a graduate of the very first E-Lead cohort, El Paso Electric environmental engineer, and E-Lead advisory board member joined me as we talked about navigating her unique college experience, the work she loves doing every day, and her role as an advisory board member! If there is anything to take away from this episode it is to continue having the strength to push yourself.It's a good one!To Learn More About Us:https://www.utep.edu/engineering/eel/index.htmlStay Connected:https://www.facebook.com/eleadutep/https://www.instagram.com/e_lead_utep/ Music:♪ Sunset (Prod. by Lukrembo) Link : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gv7hcXCnjOw&t=0s

Hey y'all! Welcome back to another episode of the E-Lead Inclusive Podcast! In this episode, I am joined by E-Lead Alumni and c/o 2020 Character Award winner, Aaron Woods! We talk about life after graduation as he pursues his PhD at UT, lessons from E-Lead, and his sketchy living situation! It's a good one!To Learn More About Us:https://www.utep.edu/engineering/eel/index.htmlStay Connected:https://www.facebook.com/eleadutep/https://www.instagram.com/e_lead_utep/ Music:♪ Sunset (Prod. by Lukrembo) Link : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gv7hcXCnjOw&t=0s

Howdy! Welcome back to the E-Lead Inclusive Podcast! In today's episode, I got to learn more about E-Lead's newest faculty member, Dr. Houghtalen (we call her Dr. H)! Listen to hear about her journey, her passions, what she thinks of E-Lead (all good things), and what she's excited to contribute to the department exclusively on the E-Lead Inclusive Podcast! You don't want to miss it!To Learn More About Us:https://www.utep.edu/engineering/eel/index.htmlStay Connected:https://www.facebook.com/eleadutep/https://www.instagram.com/e_lead_utep/ Music:♪ Sunset (Prod. by Lukrembo) Link : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gv7hcXCnjOw&t=0s

What's crackin! Welcome back to another episode of the E-Lead Inclusive Podcast! In this episode, I caught up with E-Lead Alumni, Dr. Crystal Barrera. She graduated in 2019 and was a recipient of the E-Lead Competence award before going on to pursue her master's and PhD at UT, revolutionizing the semiconductor industry. She is now on to work as a senior engineer at Intel, but not without stopping by the E-Lead Inclusive Podcast to openly share her struggles, breakthroughs, and advice she's picked up along her journey! Stay tuned!To Learn More About Us:https://www.utep.edu/engineering/eel/index.htmlStay Connected:https://www.facebook.com/eleadutep/https://www.instagram.com/e_lead_utep/ Music:♪ Sunset (Prod. by Lukrembo) Link : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gv7hcXCnjOw&t=0s

It's Season three! We're back with a fun episode with E-Lead seniors David Lepe and Alexis Hernandez as they talk about their candid experiences finding, interviewing for, and completing their internships this summer at Dell and Texas Instruments!To Learn More About Us:https://www.utep.edu/engineering/eel/index.htmlStay Connected:https://www.facebook.com/eleadutep/https://www.instagram.com/e_lead_utep/ Music:♪ Sunset (Prod. by Lukrembo) Link : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gv7hcXCnjOw&t=0s

Howdy! Happy graduation season! In honor of our seniors graduating this Sunday, we have Haydee, Jesse, and Sebastian to talk about their experiences in Senior Design. They touch on the good, the bad, and the ugly. You don't want to miss it!Congrats c/o 2023!To Learn More About Us:https://www.utep.edu/engineering/eel/index.htmlStay Connected: https://www.facebook.com/eleadutep/ https://www.instagram.com/e_lead_utep/ Music:♪ Sunset (Prod. by Lukrembo)  Link : https://youtu.be/gv7hcXCnjOw 

Hey y'all! Welcome back to the E-Lead Inclusive Podcast! In today's episode I am joined by Ian Rybak who is an undergraduate researcher with the Joint Lab! We talked about common misconceptions people have regarding undergrad research, what his lab is up to, resources that UTEP offers for students, and more. If you're interested in research or want to learn more, you don't want to miss this episode!To Learn More About Us:https://www.utep.edu/engineering/eel/index.htmlStay Connected: https://www.facebook.com/eleadutep/ https://www.instagram.com/e_lead_utep/ Music:♪ Sunset (Prod. by Lukrembo)  Link : https://youtu.be/gv7hcXCnjOw 

Hey ladiiieessss (and gents)! Welcome back to another episode of the E-Lead Inclusive Podcast! In this episode, get to know Esperanza and Lizbeth as they talk about their first semester experiences in E-Lead, their thoughts on perfectionism, advice they have for girls considering engineering, and our Leading Ladies Late Night event!Ted Talk:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fC9da6eqaqg&t=323sTo Learn More About Us: https://www.utep.edu/engineering/eel/index.htmlStay Connected: https://www.facebook.com/eleadutep/ https://www.instagram.com/e_lead_utep/ Music:♪ Sunset (Prod. by Lukrembo)  Link : https://youtu.be/gv7hcXCnjOw 

Happy New Year! Welcome back to the E-Lead Inclusive Podcast! In today's episode, I had Alex (E-Lead 3rd year) and Mariana (E-Lead  1st year) in the hot seat as they talked about their experiences in the Fall '22 semester and looked forward to what Spring '23 has in store for them. They both bring such an interesting perspective, and I hope you enjoy listening to them just as much as I enjoyed talking to them!To Learn More About Us:https://www.utep.edu/engineering/eel/index.htmlStay Connected: https://www.facebook.com/eleadutep/ https://www.instagram.com/e_lead_utep/ Music:♪ Sunset (Prod. by Lukrembo)  Link : https://youtu.be/gv7hcXCnjOw 

Hey y'all! Grateful to have y'all back for another episode of the E-Lead Inclusive Podcast! For today's episode, we're keeping it short and sweet and talking about gratitude! As the Holiday's are upon us, take this well-deserved break to recharge and reflect on all of the good that's happened this year and this semester!To Learn More About Us:  https://www.utep.edu/engineering/eel/index.html  Stay Connected: https://www.facebook.com/eleadutep/ https://www.instagram.com/e_lead_utep/  Music: ♪ Sunset (Prod. by Lukrembo)  Link : https://youtu.be/gv7hcXCnjOw 

Greetings! In this episode of the E-Lead Inclusive Podcast, I had the opportunity to talk to Tristan Hernandez. Tristan is an E-Lead student, however, his passions are not only in engineering. He started a nonprofit organization called the Canutillo Student Success Network. Listen to this episode to hear about his journey through college and starting his own nonprofit organization!

Who's ready to complete an internship? Check out this episode of the E-Lead Inclusive Podcast to hear about some of our intern's experiences over the summer and the advice they have to you guys on landing one! 

IT'S SEASON TWO! Welcome back to E-Lead Inclusive Podcast! While we may have a new look, rest assured, we are still having the same great conversations! In today's episode, I had the opportunity to talk with Lya Bejarano (LEAD President) and Elijah Riefenberg (LEAD Vice President) about the 2022-2023 school year! They gave some great advice as seniors in E-Lead and the leaders of the student organization LEAD at UTEP.  Season One Finale:https://youtu.be/ScBZ_OQDRycLEAD Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/lead_utep/?hl=enStay Connected: https://www.facebook.com/eleadutep/ https://www.instagram.com/e_lead_utep/ Music: ♪ Sunset (Prod. by Lukrembo)  Link : https://youtu.be/gv7hcXCnjOw 

Greetings! Welcome back to another episode of the E-Lead Inclusive Podcast! In today's episode, I got a chance to interview E-Lead Senior, Maximo Gamez. Now, most of you may know him as a TA, the former president of LEAD, or as the hub for all things entrepreneurship, but he now adds "UTEP Top 10 Senior" to his repertoire. Stay tuned to hear about his time at UTEP and how that led him to his distinct recognition by the university!To Learn More About Us:  https://www.utep.edu/engineering/eel/index.html  Stay Connected: https://www.facebook.com/eleadutep/ https://www.instagram.com/e_lead_utep/  Music: ♪ Sunset (Prod. by Lukrembo)  Link : https://youtu.be/gv7hcXCnjOw  

It's that dreaded time of the semester...finals. Need I say more? Check out this episode during your next study break for some life-changing/saving tips on all things finals from Angelica and Dhanytza!Stay Connected:  https://www.facebook.com/eleadutep/ https://www.instagram.com/e_lead_utep/  Music: ♪ Sunset (Prod. by Lukrembo)  Link : https://youtu.be/gv7hcXCnjOw 

Welcome back y’all! In this episode, I talked to E-Lead senior Najee Martinez and Freshman Jyan Delgadillo as they shared their experiences in E-Lead! So sit back, relax, and listen as they share some advice, reflect on their favorite projects, and anticipate their future goals. I hope you guys enjoy hearing from them here on the E-Lead Inclusive podcast!Stay Connected  https://www.facebook.com/eleadutep/ https://www.instagram.com/e_lead_utep/  Music: ♪ Sunset (Prod. by Lukrembo)  Link : https://youtu.be/gv7hcXCnjOw 

Salutations! Welcome back to the E-Lead Inclusive Podcast! In today’s episode, we are continuing our “Meet the Advisory Committee” with Ardo Fuentes. Mr. Fuentes is an Alumni of UTEP’s College of Engineering but listen here to know what he does now (think: Wall Street)!   To Learn More About Him : https://www.utep.edu/engineering/eel/people/advisory-committee.html  Stay Connected  https://www.facebook.com/eleadutep/ https://www.instagram.com/e_lead_utep/  Music: ♪ Sunset (Prod. by Lukrembo)  Link : https://youtu.be/gv7hcXCnjOw 

Howdy! Welcome back to the E-Lead Inclusive Podcast! In today’s episode, we are continuing our “Meet the Advisory Committee” with Eric Minelga-- more formally known as “the guy with the dog”. We’ll get to hear about his work as a Senior Engineering Manager at Boeing, his time as Dr. Gonzalez’s student, and why he’s never seen without a dog! To Learn More About Him : https://www.utep.edu/engineering/eel/people/advisory-committee.html  Stay Connected: https://www.facebook.com/eleadutep/ https://www.instagram.com/e_lead_utep/  Music: ♪ Sunset (Prod. by Lukrembo)  Link : https://youtu.be/gv7hcXCnjOw 

Hey, ya’ll! Welcome back to the E-Lead Inclusive Podcast! In today’s episode, we are continuing our “Meet the Advisory Committee” with Lawrence Pope. Listen here to hear his accent and then learn where it comes from, along with other fun facts about his childhood, college days, and career!   To Learn More About Him : https://www.utep.edu/engineering/eel/people/advisory-committee.html  Stay Connected: https://www.facebook.com/eleadutep/ https://www.instagram.com/e_lead_utep/  Music: ♪ Sunset (Prod. by Lukrembo)  Link : https://youtu.be/gv7hcXCnjOw 

Welcome back to the E-Lead Inclusive Podcast! In today’s episode, we are kicking off our “Meet the Advisory Committee” with the Chairman (of many boards), and UTEP Alumni, Bob Malone. We’ll get to hear his back story, his amazing career achievements, and if he has a second son! You don’t want to miss it!   To Learn More About Him : https://www.utep.edu/engineering/eel/people/advisory-committee.html  Stay Connected:  https://www.facebook.com/eleadutep/ https://www.instagram.com/e_lead_utep/  Music: ♪ Sunset (Prod. by Lukrembo)  Link : https://youtu.be/gv7hcXCnjOw 

Welcome to the E-Lead Inclusive Podcast! This podcast highlights all of the inner workings from the advisory committee, students, faculty,  and professors,  to ideas that make UTEP’s Engineering Innovation and Leadership major the strong force that it is! Stay tuned to learn more about us and be included in some of the conversations that range from dissecting student life to spit-balling innovative solutions for tomorrow’s problems.   To Learn More About Us:  https://www.utep.edu/engineering/eel/index.html  Stay Connected: https://www.facebook.com/eleadutep/ https://www.instagram.com/e_lead_utep/  Music: ♪ Sunset (Prod. by Lukrembo)  Link : https://youtu.be/gv7hcXCnjOw