2025 Spring Student Symposium Keynote Speaker

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Dorcas Kaweesa, Ph.D.

Stick to the Vision: Journey to Personal and Professional Growth

Dr. Dorcas Kaweesa is an aerospace engineer in the Aeromechanics Office at NASA Ames Research Center. She served as a Structural Analysis Engineer for the JPL/Ames Mars Science Helicopter (MSH) Project where she provides analysis and reports the Ames structures engineering activities. She also supports advanced vertical takeoff and landing aircraft technology development by analyzing rotor performance using computational tools.

Dr. Kaweesa earned her PhD in mechanical engineering from Penn State University in 2022. Her research focused on concept of material complexity within the field of design for multi-material additive manufacturing, predicting the mechanical behavior of composite materials considering custom voxel-based microstructural designs and macroscopic interfacial analyses. Prior to that, she obtained her Bachelor of Science degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Portland in 2015 and a Master of Science degree also in mechanical engineering at Penn State University in 2017.

During her time at Penn State University, Dr. Kaweesa played a significant role in the Center for Engineering Outreach and Inclusion as a pioneer, leader, mentor, and advocate for undergraduate and graduate students in STEM. Dr. Kaweesa remains dedicated to mentoring and supporting the youth by volunteering in the California Bay Area.