Chico State University engineering students showcased their innovative capstone projects at the College of Engineering Senior Capstone Expo on December 12, 2025. Among the standout presentations was a drone attachment designed by a team led by student Conor Daly that aims to assist in prescribed burns. Initially, the team considered using napalm, but Daly humorously noted, “That’s against the Geneva Convention.” Instead, they developed a system that drops “dragon eggs,” which are small, Ping-Pong-like balls that ignite brush fires safely.
Each student team spends a year working on their projects, often collaborating with industry partners to create solutions with real-world applications. Daly’s team initially partnered with the Tehama County Resource Conservation District, which aimed to implement a drone program. Unfortunately, the partnership dissolved when a key employee left the district. Nevertheless, the team received funding from Chico State, allowing them to complete their project independently.
The drone technology that Daly’s team worked on typically costs around $40,000. However, their project, including the drone provided by Chico State, was developed for under $4,000. This cost-effective solution exemplifies how academic projects can lead to practical and affordable innovations.
Students like Devin Lamoreaux and Jonathan Garcia also presented their project, the Vehicle Break Characterizer, at the expo held in Colusa Hall. The event brought together students and faculty, highlighting the collaborative spirit of the engineering program.
Student Innovation and Faculty Support
The capstone program at Chico State is designed to provide students with critical real-world experience. Each team is assigned a faculty adviser, who plays a significant role in guiding the students and facilitating industry connections. David Alexander, Dean of the College of Engineering, emphasized the importance of this mentorship, stating, “What they go through — how they transform from a student to a young professional — is just amazing.”
Before starting their projects, students spend a semester refining their designs through discussions with their industry sponsors. Once the design phase is complete, they dedicate an entire semester to building and testing their creations. Alexander described the process as “very much an iterative process,” underscoring the hands-on learning that characterizes the capstone experience.
These projects not only enhance students’ resumes but often lead to job opportunities. Many students secure employment through the connections and experience gained during their capstone work.
The Senior Capstone Expo serves as a platform for these engineering students to demonstrate their ingenuity and problem-solving skills. As they prepare to enter the workforce, the projects showcased at Chico State highlight the university’s commitment to fostering innovation and real-world application in engineering education.
