Hackathon success, scholarships and networking shape Edrian Vargas’ path
This past October, University of Delaware sent three students to the 2024 national 50th anniversary conference of the National Action Council for Minority Engineers (NACME) in Houston, Texas, where they received accolades, scholarships and more.
“Attending NACME’s Conference over the past two years has been a transformative experience, one that has reshaped my perspective and inspired my growth,” said Edrian Vargas, who was one of the three and a recent computer engineering alumnus. “Being surrounded by innovative, like-minded students from across the country was both humbling and empowering, revealing a thriving network of individuals driven to make an impact.”
NACME provides financial and programmatic support to students in engineering and computer science. These resources, such as annual scholarship awards, technical development programming, and internships are designed to support academic and career success for under-represented and first generation students.
“These networking and skill building opportunities allow students to leverage a national network of engineers and industry leaders and help first-gen and URM students find community and support,” said Noelle Romero, NACME campus liaison and director of the college’s Resources to Inspire Successful Engineers program.
Vargas and his cross-university team received second place in the NACME conference Hackathon, where students work together to solve real-world problems. Throughout the Hackathon, teams received feedback on their design and presentation skills from industry sponsors, fostering an environment of adaptability and growth.
“The Hackathon pushed me far beyond my comfort zone, demanding that I collaborate with others to create a fully realized product in just 24 hours,” said Vargas. “It was an intense but rewarding challenge that redefined how I approach teamwork, creativity, and problem-solving.”
Along with providing opportunities and support throughout college, NACME prepares students for what’s ahead.
“NACME has not just been an event,” said Vargas. “It has been a catalyst for growth, a source of inspiration, and a launchpad for my future.”