Northern Arizona University 2026 SAE Aero- Micro
Tasked with desiging a small scale remote-controlled plane capable of carrying a 67 fluid ounce payload.
Tasked with desiging a small scale remote-controlled plane capable of carrying a 67 fluid ounce payload.
My name is Carlo Boyd and I am originally from a small town in Southern California. I moved to Flagstaff in 2022 for my collegiate studies at Northern Arizona University; which entails graduating with a Mechanical Engineering Degree and Minor in Civil Engineering in May of 2026. I chose to join the SAE Aero team as I am interested in exploring Aerospace as well as want to work for a defense contracting firm. This Capstone has enforced my engineering studies while also providing new and built upon skills in research, design, and manufacturing.
I’m Luke Chandler, and my interest in mechanical engineering came from my desire to build things and my curiosity in how the world around me works. I am originally from Las Vegas, Nevada but spent all my high school years in Gilbert, Arizona. I plan to graduate from NAU in the Spring 2026 semester. Being able to participate in the SAE Aero Design competition allows me to apply the skills learned throughout school in a practical environment focused on innovation. Being able to work on design and fabrication for this project has allowed me to strengthen my understanding of the manufacturing process and for me to learn the basics of aerodynamics.
My name is Trey Cooper, and I am a Mechanical Engineering major, scheduled to graduate in Spring 2026. I am originally from Seattle, Washington, and I chose NAU after it was recommended by a family friend who works in the aerospace industry. I have always been interested in aviation, and in 2021 I earned my private pilot license. I chose SAE Aero Micro as my capstone because I am passionate about aerospace and excited to apply what I learned from flight training to a real aircraft design challenge. I believe this project is an important step toward my goal of a career in the aerospace industry.
My name is Ryan Carberry and I am on track to graduate in the Spring 2026 semester. I grew up in Redondo Beach, California and moved up to Flagstaff in Fall of 2022 to pursue my Mechanical Engineering degree at NAU. I chose the SAE Aero Micro competition for my capstone because I am very interested in aerodynamics and wanted to do a hands-on project with an emphasis on the manufacturing process. As the lead wing designer, my mission is to design and manufacture our main wings, as well as help with our tail wing elevator and rudder configuration. I am confident that this capstone project will increase my ability to acquire a career in the aerospace/defense industry post-graduation.
I'm Cale Hines. I am graduating Spring 2026. I'm originally from Montana, but planned on attending NAU because of the similar climate. I have thoroughly enjoyed working with all members of the SAE Aero micro team here at NAU. It has been my mission as project manager to allow the team to blend in order to produce a top level product for competition in April. I chose this capstone because I am very interested in a career in the aerospace/defense industry. I figured this was a wonderful step in the right direction.
