Center for Environmental Research and Technology

UCR Students Explore Global Sustainability Through STREAM-ITL Program in Mexico

This summer, UCR students participated in the Synergistic Renewable Energy and Academic Mobility Initiative for Transformative Learning (STREAM-ITL) program, an educational collaboration between the University of California, Riverside (UCR), the Instituto Tecnologico de Hermosillo (ITH), and the Sonora Energy Cluster (SEC). The program brought together 20 students to engage with emerging technologies in renewable energy and programming while offering them the unique opportunity to experience Mexico’s culture and local sustainability efforts. The STREAM-ITL program was funded by the University of California– Alianza Mexico 2024 Seed Funding Opportunity for Mobilities to Mexico (https://alianzamx.universityofcalifornia.edu/) and UCR’s Office of Research and Economic Development (https://research.ucr.edu/).

The two-week program, held in Hermosillo, Mexico, combined hands-on learning in ESP32-based MicroPython programming and IoT systems management with technical workshops and site visits to renewable energy facilities. Students were able to see firsthand how these technologies are advancing the development of sustainable infrastructure, such as electric vehicle systems and solar energy projects.

“This program gave me a deeper understanding of how different parts of the world are working toward a more sustainable future,” said Eric Perez, a Mechanical Engineering student at UCR. “I walked away from this experience with a newfound appreciation for the sciences and technologies that are shaping the future of renewable energy.”

In addition to classroom learning, students engaged with experts from ITH and SEC to explore how Hermosillo is incorporating sustainability into its urban infrastructure. Site visits to local renewable energy projects offered insights into the practical applications of electric buses, solar panel installations, and energy-efficient technology in the region.

Felix Diaz, a Computer Science student at UCR, said, “I walked away from this experience with a newfound understanding and appreciation for the various sciences and technologies that come together to build a more sustainable future, and look forward to learning more!”

The STREAM-ITL program was co-led by Alfredo Martinez-Morales, Principal Investigator at CE-CERT, and Sonja Lind, Ph.D., Assistant Director of Education Abroad at UCR’s International Affairs office. Martinez-Morales reflected on the importance of cross-border collaborations in advancing renewable energy solutions. “This program provided a unique opportunity for students to experience firsthand how technology and innovation can address global environmental challenges. By engaging with industry and academic partners in Mexico, the students gained valuable insights into how renewable energy systems are being developed and implemented on an international scale,” he said.

Dr. Lind echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of global educational programs like STREAM-ITL. “Providing students with opportunities to collaborate internationally not only enhances their academic knowledge but also prepares them to solve complex global issues,” Lind said. “This program was a perfect example of how international experiences broaden students’ perspectives and equip them with the tools needed to tackle sustainability challenges.”

Beyond the academic and technical training, the students also immersed themselves in Mexico’s vibrant culture. Many participants had the opportunity to attend the Grito de Independencia celebrations in Hermosillo, experiencing the country’s national festivities for the first time. Students explored historic landmarks like the Metropolitan Cathedral and witnessed the cultural significance of Mexico’s Independence Day.

For many, the cultural aspect of the program was as impactful as the technical education. “The celebrations in Hermosillo are very different from those in the United States,” one student remarked, reflecting on how the program helped foster a deeper appreciation for cultural diversity alongside environmental innovation.

The STREAM-ITL program highlighted the value of combining academic rigor with cultural exchange, emphasizing the importance of international collaboration in addressing global environmental challenges. As CE-CERT and UCR’s International Affairs office continue to collaborate with institutions like ITH and SEC, the program serves as a model for expanding future educational opportunities, allowing students to develop critical skills and contribute to sustainable energy solutions in a global context.