MinerAlert
MinerAlert
If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to shoot for the stars—literally and figuratively—it’s a mix of curiosity, innovation, and a rocket-powered work ethic. For Montserrat Hernandez, a senior in mechanical engineering and a fast-track master’s student in aerospace engineering at The University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP), reaching for the stars is just the beginning. Her journey has led her to be named one of the 2025 Brooke Owens Fellows, a prestigious honor that promises to accelerate her career in the aerospace industry and propel her to new heights.
The Brooke Owens Fellowship is a nationally recognized program that honors exceptional undergraduate women and gender minorities in aerospace, providing them with exclusive internships, executive mentorship, and a supportive professional network. Hernandez is among the 44 students selected from a competitive applicant pool of more than 400 candidates representing top universities, research institutions, and international programs.
As part of the fellowship, Hernandez will intern as a Structural and Mechanical Engineering Intern at Blue Origin’s Van Horn Launch Site 1 this summer, where she will work on cutting-edge projects like New Shepard rocket launches, BE-4 engine testing, and astronaut training. The chance to contribute to these groundbreaking aerospace initiatives is a dream come true for Hernandez, who is ready to apply her skills to a company shaping the future of space exploration.
Hernandez’s passion for aerospace engineering took flight during her time at UTEP, where she has excelled in research and academic endeavors. As an Undergraduate Research Assistant at the UTEP Aerospace Center, she has contributed to major projects such as NASA’s Lunar Surface Technology Research and AFRL’s High-Speed Air Vehicle Thermal Management Research. She also gained valuable experience through an internship with Firefly Aerospace, working on lunar lander projects as part of the NASA Pathways CLPS program.
“The application process for the Brooke Owens Fellowship was a challenge, but one that really pushed me outside my comfort zone,” said Hernandez. “The essays, multimedia submissions, and interviews were all part of the journey. When I got the call saying I had been selected as a fellow, I was overwhelmed with gratitude and excitement.”
Kenith Meissner, Ph.D., dean of the UTEP College of Engineering, commented on Hernandez’s achievement and the role of UTEP in shaping leaders in aerospace. “Montserrat’s selection as a Brooke Owens Fellow reflects her talent, dedication, and drive,” said Meissner. “At the College of Engineering, we are committed to fostering students who are eager to make an impact, and Montserrat embodies that spirit. We are incredibly proud of her accomplishments and look forward to the outstanding contributions she will continue to make to the aerospace field.
Hernandez attributes much of her success to the supportive environment at the College of Engineering. The experiences she has had in the Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering Department and at the Aerospace Center have fueled her curiosity and motivated her to push the limits of her abilities. The mentorship she has received from faculty members, including Dr. Rahman, has been instrumental in guiding her academic and research journey. At UTEP, she has been able to engage in hands-on projects and collaborate with fellow students, allowing her to pursue her passion for aerospace engineering and contribute to impactful research.
Shery Welsh, Ph.D., executive director of the UTEP Aerospace Center, emphasized the center’s role as a launchpad for the next generation of aerospace pioneers. “Montserrat has been a shining star at the Aerospace Center, showcasing remarkable leadership and an unwavering passion for exploration,” Welsh said. “Her selection as a Brooke Owens Fellow is a well-earned recognition of her potential. We are excited to see her chart new frontiers at Blue Origin and beyond, helping to propel humanity further into the cosmos.”
The Brooke Owens Fellowship, now in its ninth year, has created a thriving community of 350+ alumni working in engineering, research, policy, journalism, and entrepreneurship across the aerospace industry. Fellows receive mentorship from top executives and Brookie alumni, offering them the support and connections needed to accelerate their careers.
“Being selected as a Brooke Owens Fellow is more than just an internship—it’s about joining a community of women and gender minorities in aerospace who support and inspire one another,” Hernandez said. “I’m thrilled for the opportunity to intern at Blue Origin, where I’ll apply my skills to cutting-edge projects that will help shape the future of space exploration.”
Hernandez and her fellow Brookies will attend a summit this July, where they will participate in workshops, networking events, and professional development activities that will further prepare them for leadership roles in the aerospace industry.
With her talent, determination, and passion for aerospace, Hernandez is well on her way to launching an inspiring career that will make a lasting impact on the world of space exploration. Hernandez’s journey proves that launching a career in aerospace takes more than just rocket fuel—it takes passion, perseverance, and the right support system. Curious how Montserrat turned her dreams into liftoff? Buckle up and visit UTEP Aerospace Center to explore her path to the stars!
For more information about the Brooke Owens Fellowship, visit www.brookeowensfellowship.org.
The UTEP College of Engineering is committed to advancing research, education, and innovation in engineering and technology. With a focus on hands-on learning and real-world problem-solving, the college provides students with opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research, industry collaborations, and global impact initiatives.