This week marks National Engineers Week, celebrating the contributions and accomplishments of engineers across the nation. Among those being recognized is Samuel Campos Diaz, a graduate of Nimitz High School, whose journey from El Salvador to Texas exemplifies the spirit of perseverance and ingenuity.
Arriving in the United States at the age of 8, Campos Diaz embarked on his educational path within the Irving Independent School District. He attended Lee, Hanes, and Schulze elementary schools before progressing to Bowie Middle School and eventually graduating from Nimitz High School in 2020.
During his time at Nimitz, Campos Diaz showcased his versatility by actively participating in various extracurricular activities, including playing the bass clarinet in the band, punting for the football team, and excelling as a center back in soccer. Additionally, he pursued his interest in engineering, laying the groundwork for his future endeavors.
Reflecting on his high school experience, Campos Diaz recalls, "During halftime shows, I would be marching in my football uniform. I would play some solos on the stage that they had set up, and I would be in my jersey and pads. It was fun!"
His enthusiasm for both mathematics and science naturally led him to explore engineering courses, where he honed his skills through computer-aided design programs and hands-on projects. "I learned a lot about engineering through different computer-aided design (CAD) programs, obtaining certifications, and working through the engineering process," he explains.
One of Campos Diaz's notable achievements at Nimitz was his involvement in a project to develop a prosthetic arm for a fellow student, enabling her to play the cello. "It was a very interesting and unique opportunity to be part of that project," he says. "We were invited to go see her perform in concert, and it was very fulfilling to see her be able to use the prosthetic we designed [for her] to play."
Currently a senior at Texas A&M University pursuing a Bachelor of Science in mechanical engineering, Campos Diaz looks ahead to his future endeavors with optimism. He aspires to further his education through a master's degree, with a focus on research or aerospace engineering, setting his sights on esteemed organizations like NASA, SpaceX, or Boeing.
In the midst of his academic pursuits, Campos Diaz remains grounded, finding solace and balance through powerlifting, which he describes as his "hobby" and a means of mental and physical well-being.
As he prepares to compete at the USA Powerlifting Collegiate Nationals in April with the Texas A&M powerlifting team, Campos Diaz offers words of encouragement to current students: "Bet on yourself. You are the only one that can be the one to push yourself to the next level. Be your number one supporter and your number one advocate."
As National Engineers Week unfolds, Campos Diaz's story serves as a testament to the transformative power of education, dedication, and the pursuit of one's passions in shaping a promising future.
