Congratulations to Our Student Design Teams on Their Outstanding Achievements!

We are thrilled to announce that two of our environmental engineering senior design teams, under the instruction of Dr. Amanda Rupiper, have won the California Water Environment Association (CWEA) Student Design Competition in two categories, Wastewater and the Environment. This remarkable achievement highlights the ingenuity and dedication of our students in addressing critical environmental challenges.

Wastewater Category Winner: Obi Water Solutions

Senior design team, Obi Water Solutions, (CEE Seniors: Brenda Blanco, Genivee Gast, Nilofar Hamidzada, Berenice Vargas, and Jessica Verduzco)  excelled in the Wastewater category with their reverse osmosis design. This project effectively addresses the rising Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) concentrations seen with increasing conservation efforts and anticipates future Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) issues, showcasing a forward-thinking approach to wastewater treatment.

Environment Category Winner: Highlander Consulting Group

Highlander Consulting Group (CEE Seniors: Jeff Dai, Anayely De LaVega, Jessica Gonzalez, Andreina Mendoza, and Justin Yanase) triumphed in the Environment category by presenting a novel ammonia emissions air control technology using biochar. Their solution aims to significantly reduce air pollution and reduce water consumption at an economic benefit to farmers, demonstrating our students' commitment to advancing environmental protection and sustainability.

International Competition at WEFTEC 2024

Both teams will proudly represent our UCR and the Chemical and Environmental Engineering department at the international competition in October 2024, held at the WEFTEC conference in New Orleans, LA. This event is a prominent gathering of water quality professionals from around the world, providing an excellent platform for our students to showcase their work.

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to both teams for their exceptional achievements and wish them the best of luck as they prepare for the international stage. 

Stay tuned for more updates on their journey to WEFTEC 2024!