Navin K C is currently pursuing a PhD in Mechanical Engineering at the University of Arkansas. Originally from Nepal, he holds a bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from Kathmandu University and an MS in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Arkansas, where he specialized in battery materials. His current research focuses on battery safety for eVTOLs and advanced air mobility systems, integrating machine learning and data-driven approaches to enhance performance and reliability. Beyond academics, Navin enjoys hiking, gaming, and exploring new skills and recreational activities.

Swapnil Saha is a Ph.D. student in Mechanical Engineering at the University of Arkansas, where he is currently conducting research on Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) systems. His work focuses on the integration of emerging technologies to support the next generation of sustainable and efficient aerial transportation.

Originally from Bangladesh, Swapnil holds a Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering from Rajshahi University of Engineering and Technology (RUET), with a major in Transportation Engineering. His foundational background in infrastructure and transportation systems complements his current research on airborne mobility, creating a unique interdisciplinary perspective that bridges ground and air transportation.

Swapnil is passionate about research that blends engineering innovation with real-world applications. Outside of academia, he enjoys traveling, socializing, and watching TV series during his free time.

Toluwalase “Tolu” Olatunji is a Ph.D. student in Mechanical Engineering at the University of Arkansas. Tolu is a recipient of the prestigious Doctoral Academy Fellowship (DAF) award. She is originally from Nigeria and completed her Bachelor of Engineering degree at Afe Babalola University. Her current research interests include data analysis, machine learning, and aerospace systems.

Previously, Toluwalase interned at Earthview Nigeria Limited, where she worked on thermal simulations and finite element analysis. Currently, she is analyzing pilots’ flight data using a Redbird flight simulator to assess their proficiency in energy management. In her free time, she enjoys watching movies, cooking, and spending quality time with family and friends.

Ryker Davis is an MS student in Mechanical Engineering at the University of Arkansas. He is from Walnut Ridge, Arkansas. His current research area interests are - Advance Air Mobility (AAM), data analysis, and human factors in Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), along with energy management in aircraft systems. Ryker was previously awarded the Student Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) award in 2024 to conduct his research with the ASYST Lab, and he continues to expand on this work at the graduate level. Ryker has experience in metal working with lathes and cutting mills. He has also interned at Jonesboro Manufacturing in the summer of 2022. In his free time, he likes to hunt, fish, and spend quality time with friends and family. 

Marcos Manjarrez is an Honors student at the University of Arkansas pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering. He is focused on developing fundamental skills and exploring interests that will support his future career. Marcos has a strong interest in Aerospace Engineering and hopes to pursue a concentration in this area, along with engaging in research related to the field, while remaining open to gaining experience across various areas of mechanical engineering. He currently serves as a Student Ambassador for the University of Arkansas, where he shares his appreciation and enthusiasm for the university with prospective students. Marcos is grateful for the experiences that have shaped his journey and looks forward to the opportunities ahead as he continues to grow academically and professionally.

Ian Dandurand is a Sophomore Honors student pursuing a Mechanical Engineering Degree at the University of Arkansas. His current research involves Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) systems, electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing (eVTOL) vehicles, and their viability. He also contributes to robotics research with a focus on medical applications at the Institutes for Integrative & Innovative Research (I3R) at the university. While on campus, he serves as the President of the Robotics Interdisciplinary Organization of Teams (RIOT) and is working towards the Aerospace and Robotics concentrations within the Mechanical Engineering Department as well as a minor in Computer Science. Outside of the lab and classroom, Ian enjoys designing personal robotic projects, playing the marimba, and competing regularly with other universities through club sports.  

Abigail Henson is a junior Honors student at the University of Arkansas pursuing a degree in Mechanical Engineering with a concentration in Aerospace. Her current research involves studying human factors in aerospace safety using the NASA Aviation Safety Reporting System. This coming summer, Abigail will work as an intern at Dassault Falcon Jet in the 3D wire routing department. Outside of academics, she enjoys playing flute, working out, and baking.

Saloni Satappagol is a sophomore Honors student pursuing a mechanical engineering degree at the University of Arkansas. Her current research involves investigating engine control failures on general aviation aircrafts. Last year, she presented research on detecting astrobiological gases in exoplanets at the 2025 Lunar and Planetary Science Conference. During the school year, she stays involved in Associated Student Government as the Director of Municipal Relations, and in Chi Omega as an assistant to the Director of Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging. Outside of school, Saloni enjoys playing pickleball, going on walks, and spending time with friends. 

Cody Harrison is a senior at the University of Arkansas pursuing a degree in Mechanical Engineering with a concentration in Aerospace. Originally from Frisco, Texas, Cody’s research focuses on integrating AI, drones, and agriculture to simulate the potential of autonomous farming systems. His technical interests include aerodynamics, propulsion, and artificial intelligence. On campus, Cody served as a peer mentor for incoming engineering students and currently works in Dr. Braham’s asphalt lab. He is also an active member of Theta Tau, a co-ed professional engineering fraternity, where he attends professional development workshops and events. Outside of academics, Cody enjoys going to the gym, spending time with friends, and learning to play the guitar.

Jesse Pham is a junior honors student in Mechanical Engineering at the University of Arkansas. He is from Fort Smith, Arkansas. His current research interests are the design of airframes, risk assessment, and propulsion systems in the Aerospace industries. Jesse is also a recipient of the Honors College Research Grant to conduct his research with the ASYST Lab. He has also received the Dean’s and Chancellor’s awards for the 2023–2024 academic year, and has received the Grant T. White Scholarship and the University of Arkansas Alumni Scholarship. Apart from studies, he likes playing video games, hunting, cooking, and creating plans to spend time with family and friends.