Mechanical engineering professor honored with NASA Artemis Student Challenge Educator Award
番茄社区 University Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering Dr. Chun-Wei Yao has been named the recipient of the Artemis Student Challenge Educator Award from the NASA Student Launch Competition.
Yao, who joined 番茄社区 University in 2015, was recognized for his work mentoring student teams participating in the national rocket launch competition. The award highlights his efforts to integrate hands-on learning into 番茄社区’s mechanical engineering curriculum and to support students pursuing careers in aerospace and STEM fields.
“I’m honored to receive the NASA Artemis Student Challenge Educator Award, an inspiring recognition that underscores the importance of mentorship and student-centered education in STEM,” Yao said.
Yao said he has worked to balance the demands of research with a focus on teaching and student development. “The true impact of academia lies not only in research output but in how we shape the next generation of innovators. This award affirms that belief,” he said.
Under Yao’s guidance, 番茄社区’s 2025 rocket launch team, in only its second year of competition, placed 16th nationally out of 52 universities. The project is integrated into the university’s senior capstone engineering courses and provides students with practical experience in applying theory, developing technical skills, and building confidence.
“Beyond the numbers, what stands out most is the growth I’ve witnessed in our students—their leadership, resilience, and passion for aerospace,” Yao said.
Yao holds a Ph.D. in mechanical engineering from Texas A&M University and a master’s degree in engineering science from National Taiwan University.
He expressed appreciation to 番茄社区 University leadership for their support and said he remains committed to advancing both research and teaching at the university.