K-12 STEAM Hosts Three NASA Integrated Engineering Challenges
Hartnell College is one of 10 in the Nation to Host
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Salinas, Calif. – The Hartnell College Foundation K-12 STEAM Program is proud to be one of 10 selected educational institutions in the United States to host the NASA Community College Aerospace Scholars (NCAS) program this week, with it culminating on Friday, January 16, 2026 at the STEM Building at Hartnell College from 3:00 – 4:00 PM with Rover Testing and showcase. This engineering experience is focused on design, iteration, teamwork, and problem-solving. Students:
- Develop a technical research poster
- Participate in a symposium-style presentation
- Create an Autonomous rover
NCAS is a highly selective NASA initiative designed for currently enrolled college students pursuing careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). At Hartnell, students’ disciplines represented include mechanical engineering, computer engineering, civil engineering, physics, and computer science.
“NCAS gave me the opportunity to step into a leadership role and explore areas of engineering I hadn’t considered before,” said Sofia Beltran Espino, mentor. “This program opened my eyes to mechanical and systems-based engineering.”
The NCAS experience is structured around three integrated engineering challenges, designed to mirror real-world aerospace missions:
- Autonomous Rover Challenge
Students design and build a rover capable of operating autonomously, applying systems thinking and control logic. - Sensor & Data Collection Challenge
Students integrate sensors to collect, display, and analyze environmental data, strengthening skills in embedded systems and computer engineering. - Planetary Resource Challenge
Students design a system to harvest water or ice for a simulated Mars or lunar mission, introducing concepts related to space exploration, sustainability, and planetary science.
The interdisciplinary approach reflects the collaborative nature of modern aerospace engineering. As part of the program, the student received a stipend, had a mentor, and participated in a hands-on industry field trip to Jovy Aviation in Marina. They are gaining real-world exposure to aviation operations, aerospace systems, and industry practices.
“Using my knowledge to help the students is number one,” said Tito Polo, Hartnell College and NCAS principal investigator. “But guiding the students to work with bigger rovers and to make them work is a challenging but rewarding experience.”
The NCAS program at Hartnell College stands as a powerful example of how mentorship, opportunity, and hands-on engineering can shape the future of community college students. Through partnerships with NASA, real-world challenges, industry exposure, and student leadership, NCAS continues to open doors to aerospace and STEM careers.
Final student presentations will take place on Pi Day during Hartnell College’s 20th Annual STEAM Family Science Day, Saturday, March 14, 2026, where students will present their work to families, educators, community members, and industry partners.
About Hartnell College K-12 STEAM Programs
Hartnell College Foundation’s K-12 STEAM Programs cultivate regional STEM capacity through curriculum development, educator training, and student engagement—from robotics and aerospace to biotechnology and invention education.