Dean’s Student Leadership awardee: Shiarette Contreras Rivera, aerospace engineering

Clubs and activities

Puerto Rican Student Association, Aeronautical Innovative Research, Make to Innovate CyLaunch team, Cantamus Choir

Valuable hands-on learning in class

My most valuable hands-on classroom experience was my time in CyLaunch through M:2:I. CyLaunch competes annually in the NASA Student Launch competition, where we design and build a rocket to meet mission requirements. This experience greatly expanded my knowledge of rocketry, a field I am passionate about, and helped me develop skills in manufacturing and large-scale project documentation.

Valuable out-of-the-classroom experience

In my internship at Spirit AeroSystems, I worked as a structural analysis engineer intern and gained practical insights into the industry. I presented my summer project to executives and leaders of the company while representing the Twin Aisle Program for Boeing commercial airplanes. This opportunity strengthened my passion for structures and helped me develop technical communication and engineering problem-solving skills.

Most influential mentor

My most influential mentor at Iowa State was my former academic coach, Chelsea Kies, from the Military-Affiliated Student Center. Though she left Iowa State in 2023, her unwavering support during my early years made a significant impact. She believed in my abilities as an engineer when I struggled with self-confidence and provided guidance on time management and handling challenging coursework. I will always be grateful for her encouragement.

Best memory/greatest accomplishment

Helping guide new students and their families as a Cyclone Aide in the summer of 2021 was incredibly rewarding. The appreciation and smiles I received reinforced my passion for leadership. A highlight from that summer was presenting at Hilton Coliseum for Destination Iowa State with my peer Zoe Flynn. I will always cherish the “Hilton Magic” I felt that day.

Plans after graduation

I plan to work as a Structural Analysis Engineer at Spirit AeroSystems and pursue my Level 2 and Level 3 high-power rocketry certifications. In the long term, I aspire to work in the space industry, focusing on structural analysis for rockets.

Support from Engineering Career Services

Engineering Career Services played a crucial role in helping me secure both my co-op at Collins Aerospace and my internship at Spirit AeroSystems. They provided resume assistance and career guidance, and I secured both positions through the Engineering Career Fair. Additionally, CyHire streamlined the job application process for me.

Making my mark on the world

I hope to inspire others who share my passion for innovation to dream big and work hard toward their goals. One of my long-term ambitions is to give back to Puerto Rico by creating a foundation or program that provides free education to high school students aspiring to become engineers. Many students lack access to resources that prepare them for college-level engineering coursework, and I want to change that.

Engineering like a Cyclone Engineer

To me, being a Cyclone Engineer means being hardworking, innovative, and committed to excellence. The College of Engineering and the aerospace department have provided me with invaluable resources, exceptional professors, and a strong network of peers who have shaped my academic and professional journey. Iowa State engineers represent a talented and driven community that I am proud to be a part of.

What I’d tell my younger self about Iowa State

When deciding where to go to college, I struggled with the choice of staying in Puerto Rico close to my loved ones. I would tell my younger self to embrace the unknown — because the experiences and opportunities at Iowa State will shape her future in ways she never imagined. While Puerto Rico will always be home, Iowa State will be the place where she grows into the engineer she aspires to be.

How I chose my major

I have wanted to study space since my first astronomy class in fifth grade. Planets and rockets fascinated me, so I pursued aerospace engineering.

Most inspiring location on campus

Howe Hall is the place where I feel most inspired. It has been my home away from home, witnessing my growth as a student, an engineer, and a person. It will always hold a special place in my heart.