DEMING – The Deming High School MESA team has been selected as one of the winners of the prestigious New Mexico Governor’s STEM Challenge 2025. Their innovative project, a Solar-Powered, Technology-Enhanced Community Center, impressed judges with its forward-thinking design and sustainable technology.
Sponsored by Urenco USA, the only operating commercial uranium enrichment facility in North America, located in Eunice, New Mexico, the project aims to revolutionize community spaces by incorporating solar power and advanced technology to improve accessibility and sustainability for all users. The team’s project is a prime example of how students can apply STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) principles to solve real-world challenges.
The team members are:
- Addison Schulke (11)
- Alexia Echavarria (11)
- Ayshleen Lopez (12)
- Daisy Blanco (12)
- Gisselle Reyes (11)
- Julisa Echavarria (11)
- Ezekiel Sanchez (11)
- Nathaniel Barron (10)
- Pisey Ngov (11)
- Xavier Lozano (11)
Under the guidance of Dr. Reynaldo Belen and Dr. John Valdes, the MESA team developed a proposal that not only demonstrates their technical knowledge but also their ability to think creatively and practically about the future of community development. The project could serve as a model for other cities and towns looking to embrace renewable energy solutions and cutting-edge technology in public infrastructure.
“We are incredibly proud of these students and their hard work,” said Dr. Belen. “Their success in the Governor’s STEM Challenge is a testament to their dedication and innovative thinking. It’s exciting to see them lead the way in creating a more sustainable future for our community.”
Urenco USA’s involvement with the project highlights the importance of local industry collaboration in supporting education and technological development. “Partnering with the MESA team was a natural fit for us,” said a representative from Urenco USA. “We believe in fostering the next generation of engineers and problem-solvers, and this project is a perfect example of the kind of forward-thinking innovation we need in the world today.”
This victory is not just a win for the Deming High School MESA team but also for the entire Deming community, as it showcases the remarkable talent emerging from local students. The team’s project will be displayed and further developed as they continue to work toward a sustainable, technology-driven future.
Congratulations to these talented students on their achievement!