By Anaiya Patel and Kunmi Dosunmu

For Alexey Pyekh, a 12th-grade CTAE Engineering Student of the Year, engineering has become much more than a class. Since joining robotics as a freshman, he has taken advantage of every opportunity to design, build, and test new ideas. He has continuously and consistently poured his time, energy, and effort into his passion for engineering specifically in building drones. Alexey says, “To me what makes it all worth is that the work is the reward.”

Over the years, Alexey has explored several areas of engineering, including mechanical, electrical, aerospace, and computer engineering. He has competed in TSA, earning top placements and advancing to UAV Nationals, while also helping build two electric vehicles from scratch through IA Motorsports. One of his most ambitious projects was a vertical takeoff and landing drone that combined features of both an airplane and a helicopter.

Some of Alexey’s favorite memories come from working alongside other engineering students, whether at competitions, project builds, or engineering cookouts. Alexey adds, “Me and the other TA’s go all out and plan a BBQ with Mr. Denado where we cook burgers, hotdogs, chips, drinks, and pretty much just chill and hang out.” He says the freedom to pursue projects that genuinely interest him has been one of the most rewarding parts of the program.

Beyond his own achievements, Alexey has worked to give back to the engineering community. He helped start a club that now continues under younger students’ leadership, serves as a mentor to underclassmen, and has spent the past two years helping organize summer STEM camps and outreach programs.

As he prepares to graduate, Alexey hopes to leave behind more than just successful projects. Alexey says, “I started a club two years ago called IA motor sports. In my club, I pass on responsibility to underclassmen acting as a mentor” Through his leadership and passion for innovation, he has helped create opportunities for future engineering students to learn, grow, and succeed.