Alan AyalaAlan Ayala / Engineering portfolio / SHPE Convention 2026
I'm a mechanical engineering student preparing to transfer and looking for opportunities to learn through real projects. My work spans design, prototyping, embedded systems, manufacturing, research, and team leadership.
Meeting at SHPE? I'm seeking engineering internships, project collaborators, mentors, and transfer connections.
01 / Currently building
A quick look at the projects and programs shaping my current semester—from aerospace collaboration to mechanical design and applied modeling.
NASA NCAS / Active program
Participating in NCAS coursework and team activities while learning how NASA frames mission goals, technical decisions, and collaborative engineering work.
In progress · Team project details will be added as the program developsNASA RASC-AL competition / In progress
Serving as team lead for a student team developing a remotely operated vehicle for NASA’s RASC-AL competition, coordinating the work while contributing to mechanical design, integration, and testing.
Current focus · Team coordination, CAD, and iterative developmentEngineering graphics / In progress
Working through a team gearbox assignment that connects part geometry, drawings, CAD interpretation, and how individual components fit into a complete mechanism.
Current focus · Component modeling and design communicationProduct redesign / In progress
Redesigning a replacement battery cover with a stronger serviceable retention tab and a sliding attachment system for interchangeable modules.
Current focus · Fit, durability, printability, and modularityHonors research / In progress
Using differential equations to explain how a single dose changes over time, with an emphasis on making the mathematics understandable to a broader audience.
Current focus · Elimination rate, half-life, and model interpretation02 / Selected projects
Completed and working prototypes across mechanics, electronics, and practical problem solving.
Mechanical design / Applied mathematics
Taking an idea from Calculus III off the page and turning it into a physical demonstration of cycloidal motion.
I researched the geometry behind Huygens’ pendulum, modeled the assembly in Fusion 360, 3D printed the structure, and machined two metal bobs. I then physically tested the completed demonstration.
The project connected the mathematics of curvature with the practical work of modeling, fabrication, and assembly. It earned an A as my Calculus III honors project.
Embedded systems / Sensor integration
A small electronics project inspired by a practical shop-floor question: how can I keep track of a machine without standing beside it?
I designed, programmed, and built an enclosed ESP32 system using MPU-6050 motion and SW-420 vibration sensors to detect machine activity and send status alerts to a smartwatch.
This brought together C++ programming, sensor wiring, enclosure design, and a real use case from manufacturing. It is one way I’m connecting physical equipment with embedded electronics.
Electronics / Practical prototyping
A compact desktop build for my soldering workspace, combining airflow, filtration, and simple electrical controls.
I assembled a radial fan, step-up converter, push-button control, and HEPA/activated-carbon filtration into a compact extractor.
A useful exercise in choosing compatible components and making the wiring and controls work together. Filtration performance has not been independently measured; this is a personal prototype, not certified safety equipment.
Electronics / Product development
Exploring how to turn a sensor circuit into a compact device that is easier to use, assemble, and keep on a desk.
The prototype uses an ESP32, BME280 environmental sensor, and a small OLED display. The next steps center on the modular enclosure, faceplate, and final assembly.
The focus is temperature, humidity, and pressure sensing. This project is still developing, with room to improve the housing and how the information is presented.
I'll keep adding projects as I build, test, and learn.
03 / Experience
My role at Cyrus Shank has given me hands-on experience with production, quality, machining, process improvement, and team coordination.
June 2025 — Present
Mechanical Engineering Intern
& Machinist Apprentice
I lead day-to-day work in the PDSV department, from assembling valves and testing them to quality control and production tracking. The role has also given me experience with machining, process improvement, and the coordination that keeps production moving.
Nov 2024 — Present
I manage sourcing, listings, pricing, customer messages, packaging, and fulfillment for a resale business with 100+ completed sales and 20+ five-star reviews.
June 2022 — Present
Recurring work for offices and commercial properties around Chicagoland, including supplies and client scheduling. It has been a practical lesson in consistency and responsibility.
April 2024 — June 2025
Supported busy shifts through customer assistance, bagging, cart retrieval, stocking, and keeping the store organized.
Tools I work with
Experience across design, manufacturing, and electronics—not a claim to have mastered every tool.
04 / Education & involvement
2025 — Present
Associate in Engineering Science
Expected May 2027. Preparing to transfer into a B.S. Mechanical Engineering program in Fall 2027.
Previously: East Aurora High School · Class of 2025 · Top 5% · High Honors
May 2026 — Present / President
I lead chapter planning, officer collaboration, and member outreach. I'm developing initiatives around transfer resources, scholarships, campus events, and partnerships with neighboring chapters.
May 2026 — Present / Officer
I collaborate on team design-and-build challenges, including a structural bridge project, and support club planning and member participation.
Community / Memberships
ASME · Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE) · CAD Club · Business Club · The Hive
I'm currently following the mechanical engineering pathway and preparing to transfer into a four-year program. I'm ambitious about where I want to go, even though I'm still discovering exactly what direction I want to take within engineering.
I learn best through trial and error, especially when I can build something physical and see how it performs. Troubleshooting and improving a project is often the part I enjoy most. When an idea isn't working, I'm willing to step back and reconsider the entire approach instead of forcing the original plan.
What appeals to me about engineering is the variety of directions it can lead and the opportunity to create something genuinely useful. I want to explore those possibilities before committing to one specialty, using each project and experience to better understand where my strengths and interests fit.
Moving forward, I want to keep creating increasingly useful projects while discovering where I fit best. I hope this portfolio helps me connect with engineering internships, project collaborators, mentors, professional connections, and transfer opportunities that challenge me to continue growing.
Outside school and work
Outside of school and work, I enjoy watching video essays, picking up new skills, going to car meets, and collecting fragrances and figures. I'm also into thrifting and resale, and I use my 3D printer to make both practical items and things that are just cool to have. I like exploring unfamiliar places, whether that means visiting a new city or finding a hiking trail, because it gives me a reason to step outside my normal routine. Taking care of myself is also important to me, so I try to stay active and occasionally head to the soccer field to shoot around.
06 / Connect
If we met at SHPE—or if you found this portfolio afterward—I'd be glad to connect about internships, engineering projects, transfer opportunities, or advice from your own path.
alanayala@myyahoo.com