First-Gen Engineering Student Leader Inspires Latinx Youth, Advocates for Representation in STEM

Courtesy of Gabriel Centeno

Oct 15, 2024

UCLA Samueli Newsroom

For Gabriel Centeno, engineering is not only about solving problems, but it is also about creating opportunities for the next generation of Hispanic and Latinx engineers.

As the ciencias director on the executive board of the Society of Latinx Engineers and Scientists (SOLES) at UCLA, Centeno has dedicated himself to introducing young Hispanic students to the world of engineering. Now in his third year at the UCLA Samueli School of Engineering, where he has just switched his major from materials engineering to mechanical engineering, Centeno leverages his role in SOLES to inspire students who might not have had access to opportunities in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. 

Centeno is helping bridge the gap between underrepresented communities and STEM careers through key outreach programs like “Noche de Ciencias” and “Dia de Ciencias”, which mean “Night of Sciences” and “Day of Sciences” in Spanish.

“Our goal is to raise awareness and inspire students to consider engineering if they see it as a good fit for them,” Centeno said, explaining the purpose behind these initiatives.

Noche de Ciencias is an all-day event held at local high schools, where SOLES volunteers and board members conduct hands-on workshops, such as building a hydro press bridge or a marble run. The event concludes with a presentation about UCLA’s engineering program, followed by a Q&A session where students can interact with volunteers and gain insight into the engineering field. Dia De Ciencias takes a similar approach but focuses on engaging middle school students.

Centeno’s involvement with SOLES began nearly as soon as he stepped on campus. What started as a quest for personal development transformed into a deep connection with the SOLES community, which he now regards as family. SOLES’ support, both academically and personally, became invaluable to Centeno, who, like many of his peers, is a first-generation college student.

“There’s a strong sense of family and community in helping others, especially those like us who may not have had the best opportunities before coming to UCLA,” said Gabirel Centeno about his involvement in the Society of Latinx Engineers and Scientists at UCLA.

“A lot of us are just trying to figure things out and be the best we can be,” he said. “There’s a strong sense of family and community in helping others, especially those like us who may not have had the best opportunities before coming to UCLA.”

For Centeno, the desire to give back to his community is deeply rooted in his own experiences. Growing up in North Hollywood, Centeno didn’t know much about STEM. None of his family is familiar with it either. In fact, he didn’t know anyone working in the STEM field. During middle school, however, he was able to participate in a program called SPARK, which exposed him to the professional world of STEM by pairing him with a mentor at a prominent architecture firm. “This program was specifically for underrepresented individuals, and it played a significant role in sparking my interest in STEM,” he said.

Although he initially aspired to become an architect, Centeno’s time at UCLA and his involvement with SOLES helped him realize his true passion for engineering and mentorship. He enjoys sharing knowledge and assisting others, and contributes to SOLES’ mission to support Latinx students pursuing STEM careers. SOLES also organizes events for partner schools and provides resources for transfer students. The chapter’s close affiliation with the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers also allows SOLES to sponsor students interested in attending national conventions and offer financial aid, housing and preparatory resources, such as resume-building and interview practice.

“We’re not just targeting college students,” he said. “We’re also trying to engage younger students who might not have considered engineering as a viable path.”

Through programs such as Engineers in Training — a daylong event that engages high schoolers in STEM with workshops, student panels and a UCLA campus tour, SOLES works to foster leadership and professional development in underrepresented youth who may not have had much exposure to engineering opportunities otherwise. 

SOLES group
Courtesy of Gabriel Centeno

Centeno says he sees a bright future for SOLES and hopes that UCLA will continue to grow and evolve, offering even more opportunities for Latinx students. His long-term vision for SOLES includes expanding outreach programs, increasing financial support for students and strengthening ties with professional networks that can offer internships and job placements.

“Everyone at UCLA is here to help one another, and this is true across all clubs on campus,” he said. “We want our fellow Bruins to succeed and thrive! You might make a meaningful connection and even find an unexpected family in the end.”

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