Projects

Detail Coastal Search and Rescue UAV Design (2024).

This project involved the detailed design, analysis, and manufacturing of an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) specifically engineered for coastal search and rescue (SAR) operations. The UAV was designed to meet stringent performance objectives, including autonomous launch and recovery from a compact 4 ft x 4 ft platform, rapid travel of 20 miles in under 15 minutes, and the ability to conduct search operations for at least 30 minutes. Additionally, the UAV was capable of deploying a 4-lb self-powered life raft to aid victims in distress.

The project emphasized real-world engineering practices, including constraint analysis, mission analysis, aircraft sizing, structural testing, aerodynamic modeling, and flight performance evaluation. It also integrated teamwork, technical communication, and professional collaboration to mimic industry-standard design phases and review cycles.

Key milestones included completing detailed structural analyses, conducting critical design reviews, building flight test articles, and performing design verification tests through structural loads and flight testing.

This collaborative effort was executed by an 8-member team with specialized roles:

1. Project Manager: Anthony Nguyen 

2. Manufacturing Lead: Mario Reveles 

3. Chief Engineer: Keenan Millikan 

4. Structures Lead: Kodjo Adjignon 

5. Aerodynamics Lead: Lukus Debevec 

6. Mission Team Lead: Austin Morgan 

7. Flight Electronics Team Lead: Jodi-Ann Spence 

8. Manufacturing Team Member: Devan Herrick

The Coastal SAR UAV project exemplifies the application of advanced aerospace engineering principles to solve real-world challenges while fostering teamwork, innovation, and professional development.

Prelim Coastal SAR Aircraft – Project MARLIN (2024). 

Project MARLIN focuses on developing cost-effective, rapid-response unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for coastal search and rescue operations. These UAVs are designed to autonomously launch and recover from compact platforms (4 ft x 4 ft), travel 20 miles in under 15 minutes, and conduct victim searches for at least 30 minutes. With a maximum takeoff weight of 25 lbs and a 6-foot wingspan, they can deploy life-saving payloads, such as a 4-lb self-powered life raft, ensuring efficient rescue support along extensive coastlines. The project emphasizes real-world engineering practices, teamwork, and technical communication skills.

Team of 8 consists of:

1. Project Manager: Devan Herrick

2. Systems Engineer & Propulsion Team Member: Keenan Millikan

3. Missions Team Lead: Austin Morgan

4. Propulsion Team Lead & Aerodynamics Team Member: Anthony Nguyen

5. Structures Team Lead: Kodjo Adjignon

6. Structures Team Member: Mario Reveles

7. Aerodynamics Team Lead: Lukus Debevec

8. Aerodynamics Team Member & Propulsion Team Member: Jodi-Ann Spence

Stability Sensitivity Analysis of Cessna 172 Using XFLR5 (2024).

This project, conducted as part of AE 413 - Aircraft Stability and Control, focuses on analyzing and enhancing the stability characteristics of the Cessna 172 through modifications to the vertical position (z-axis) of its main wing. Using XFLR5, we evaluated five configurations, including the original high-wing design, to assess their impact on static and dynamic stability, as well as lift and drag performance. The findings provide insights into optimal wing placement for improved aerodynamic performance and stability, making this study a valuable contribution to aircraft design optimization.

Team of 3 consists of:

1. Jodi-Ann Spence

2. Danielle McCormick 

3. Scott Bowden

Supply Chain Risk Analysis: Contamination in Bulk Agri-Commodity Logistics Chain (2024).

Collaborated on a consulting-style case analysis examining a contamination-related disruption in the Western Australia–Japan grain supply chain. Analyzed root causes, operational impacts, and breakdowns in stakeholder relationships, and developed strategic recommendations to improve quality assurance, traceability, supply chain resilience, and procurement strategies.

Team Members: 

1. Jodi-Ann Spence

2. Jeffory Lewis
   
   

Financial Accounting Project (2024).

Applied advanced accounting principles and Microsoft Excel to fulfill 12 key project requirements. Streamlined financial processes and ensured accurate application of accounting concepts, delivering precise and actionable results for the business.

Flight Testing and Stability Analysis of the British Aerospace Jetstream 31 (2024).

This project involved comprehensive flight testing and stability analysis of the British Aerospace Jetstream 31, a twin turboprop commuter airliner operated by Cranfield University's National Flying Laboratory Centre. The study focused on evaluating longitudinal static stability, longitudinal maneuver stability, and lateral-directional stability across various configurations and center-of-gravity (CG) positions. Key objectives included determining neutral points, safe CG limits, stick forces, and control deflections under different flight conditions. The findings presented in a formal flight test report contribute to understanding the aircraft's handling characteristics and compliance with airworthiness standards.

Team of 3 consists of:

1. Jodi-Ann Spence

2. Danielle McCormick

3. Scott Bowden

An experimental aerodynamics capstone Do-It-Yourself (DIY) lab-type lab with wind tunnel (2023).

This project involved a capstone Do-It-Yourself (DIY) lab, executed in teams of five. Each group proposed an experiment, which was conducted following approval, with meticulous documentation of progress throughout. The final deliverable was a comprehensive lab report, accompanied by confidential peer assessments. The primary objective of the DIY lab was for each team to design and execute their own wind tunnel experiment (ERAU). 

For this project, the team selected an aerodynamic study of the Falcon 9 rocket, focusing on the effects of its grid fins in both deployed and retracted configurations. The experiment aimed to analyze drag forces at wind speeds of 10 and 20 meters per second, as well as evaluate the pitching moment—both critical factors in rocket flight dynamics. Using methodologies derived from prior experimental aerodynamics coursework, the team calculated key parameters such as drag force, drag coefficient, and Reynolds number.

The test model was a 3D-printed replica of the Falcon 9 rocket, sourced online and printed with an infill ratio of at least 20%. To ensure safety and reliability, the model underwent static pressure testing and met the required factor of safety of two (ERAU).

The goal of the experiment was to determine how grid fins influence the Falcon 9’s descent by comparing drag forces with fins fully deployed (90° from the rocket body) versus retracted (flush against the body). Two separate models—one with deployed fins and one with retracted fins—were tested at both wind speeds. The resulting drag forces and coefficients were then analyzed and compared to assess the aerodynamic impact of grid fin deployment.

Team Members were: 

1. Justin Astacio

2. Lihuen Alexis de Oliveira Lima Muñoz 

3. Haidee Correa 

4. Landon Mcguire 

5. Jodi-Ann Spence

Live Vehicle Telemetry GPS Mapping (2023).

Developed a GPS-based telemetry system to capture real-time data, including acceleration, speed, position, and time, during vehicle movement. Designed an interactive online map that visualized travel paths over specific timeframes, enabling clients to analyze routes and performance metrics effectively.

Focus Areas: GPS tracking, real-time data logging, online mapping, telemetry system, and vehicle analytics.

Team Members were: 

1. Jamaal Smikle

2. Jodi-Ann Spence

Organizational Change & Technology Innovation: Adidas Case Study | Voice-Over Presentation (2023).

Conducted a comprehensive analysis of organizational change and technology innovation using Adidas as a case study. This project was developed as part of MGMT 201 and presented through a narrated PowerPoint (voice-over presentation).

The analysis included:

1. Overview of Adidas’ organizational history and recent transformation.

2. Classification of the change (adaptive, innovative, or radically innovative).

3. Evaluation of whether the change was proactive or reactive.

4. Assessment of the impact on business performance and operations.

5. Strategic recommendations for improvement.

Incorporated scholarly research to support findings and applied key management and organizational behavior concepts.

Skills:

1. Organizational Change.

2. Strategic Analysis.

3. Business Analysis.

4. Technology Innovation.

5. Research & Analysis.

6. Presentation Skills. 

Principles of Management Proposal Project (2023).

Developed a comprehensive presentation and proposal for introducing a new service or product within an established business. The project required crafting a detailed written proposal addressing key factors such as feasibility, implementation strategy, and expected outcomes. Additionally, I outlined a clear project management framework to oversee and guide the initiative from inception to successful completion.

Focus Areas: Business Proposal | Project Management | Strategic Planning

Curated Exhibit Project (2023).

This project is a personal endeavor showcasing curatorial and historical analysis skills developed during the Explore and Curate and Micro-History tasks. It involves creating a detailed exhibit for the Museum of Communication Technologies, centered on a cohesive theme. The project includes artifact selection, visitor engagement planning, provenance research, and the preparation of a finding aid and curatorial statement. These elements collectively highlight the collection’s significance and broader narrative, supported by thorough research and thoughtful interpretation.

Link to Project: Curated Exhibit Project^J HUMN 240^J Jodi-Ann Spence-THIS ONE IS TO BE SUBMITTED.pdf - Google Drive  

H-STEM Trailer (2023).

A personal initiative to create a digital media “trailer” showcasing the innovative fusion of STEM and humanities embodied in my H-STEM concept. This short, creative piece highlights the originality and inventiveness of H-STEM, blending interdisciplinary perspectives to inspire critical thinking and creativity. Designed to captivate in under two minutes, the trailer aims to communicate the transformative potential of integrating science, technology, engineering, and mathematics with humanistic values.

Probability and Statistics Projects (2023).

Projects demonstrating the application of statistical analysis, interpretation of results, and essential mathematical computations, with a focus on insights derived from aviation data sets.

Aerodynamics I (Incompressible Aerodynamics) Group Glider Project - Glider Design Build Fly (2022).

Collaborated as part of a 3-person team to design, build, and test a glider for an Aerodynamics I (Incompressible Aerodynamics) course project. Successfully engineered a glider capable of flying approximately 9 meters, demonstrating stable flight performance and structural integrity by maintaining all components securely affixed during the flight competition. The glider’s performance showcased effective aerodynamic principles and design execution.

Team Members were: 

1. Jodi-Ann Spence

2. Keegan Lubianski

3. Saeed Aldhaheri

C172 Range and Endurance Trade Study (2022).

•  Conducted comprehensive analysis of Cessna 172 aircraft modifications to maximize range and endurance.

• Utilized XFLR5 software to model and simulate aerodynamic changes.

• Evaluated effects of varying wing camber, reference area, and sweep angle.

• Calculated range and endurance improvements using Breguet equations.

• Recommended optimal configuration: 6% reduction in wing area and 1% increase in camber.

• Improved range by 4.75% and endurance by 0.204% over baseline model.

• Developed technical report detailing methodology, results, and conclusions.

Team Members were:

1. Alexée Providence

2. Jodi-Ann Spence

Project Management Project (2021).

Collaborated as a team of four to develop and manage a project designed to enhance our collaboration and project management skills. Together, we conceptualized and built a solution that effectively addressed stakeholder objectives while strategically balancing resource constraints. This project encompassed the full project lifecycle, including planning, execution, and delivery, showcasing our ability to manage competing priorities and achieve results.

Team Members were:

1. Jodi-Ann Spence

2. Uchechukwu Mbawuike

3. Kali Godshall

4. Jonah Caminsky

Lockheed U-2 Quasi-3D Model Project (2021).

This project involved creating a quasi-3D model of the Lockheed U-2 aircraft using CATIA software. The U-2, a high-altitude reconnaissance aircraft developed during the Cold War, was chosen for its historical significance and complex design. Our team utilized advanced modeling techniques, including sketch tracing, spline methods, and symmetry tools, to replicate the aircraft’s unique features. Challenges included lofting complex shapes and ensuring alignment for assembly. This project enhanced our skills in collaborative design, problem-solving, and precision modeling in CATIA.

Team Members were:

1. Jodi-Ann Spence

2. Miles Santos

3. Aryanna Sanchez 

4. Dylan Walker

MATLAB Game Creation - The Maze Game. A Strategic Navigation Challenge (2019).

Project Overview:

Through progressively challenging maze landscapes, players in this captivating MATLAB-based maze game put their strategic navigation and problem-solving abilities to the test. Getting through all three distinct stages as quickly and efficiently as possible is the main goal.

Important Project Features:

• Using MATLAB programming, an interactive maze navigation game was created.

• Three increasingly difficult labyrinth levels were implemented.

• Developed mechanics for dynamic goal gathering that need clever player movement.

• Developed a user-friendly UI to provide a smooth gaming experience.

Gameplay Mechanics:

To finish each level, players must carefully negotiate complex labyrinth patterns while gathering all of the objectives. In order to finish the game as quickly as possible, players must maximize their path-finding techniques by striking a balance between accuracy and speed.

Technical Implementation:

• Programming Language: MATLAB.

• Game Design: Procedural maze generation.

• User Interaction: Keyboard-based movement controls.

• Performance Metrics: Time-based level completion tracking.

Skills Demonstrated:

• MATLAB programming.

• Algorithm development.

• User interface design.

• Game logic implementation.
  
  

Team Members were: 

1. Jodi-Ann Spence

2. Jacob Akans 

Digital Storytelling. ERAU Scholarly Commons: My Experience with Racism by Jodi-Ann Spence (2019).

“My Experience with Racism” by Jodi-Ann Spence, chronicles the journey of a woman navigating racism while pursuing her dreams in both her home country and the U.S. She faced discrimination, exploitation, and attempts to define her identity by others. Despite these challenges, she triumphed by embracing her heritage, self-awareness, and faith, recognizing herself as made in the image of God. This story highlights resilience and the power of personal identity amidst adversity.

Lunabotics Project (2018).

Collaborated as part of a 4-person team to design, construct, and program autonomous robots for a Lunabotics project. Successfully programmed the robots to navigate a slalom course, retrieve 16 golf balls and 4 regular golf balls from a designated dig zone, transport them over a ramp, and accurately deposit them into a box lid in the drop zone.

Team Members were: 

1. Jodi-Ann Spence

2. Keane Farias

3. Robert Coffin 

4. Savannah Madden

IMTA Project - Los Angeles (2017).

Proud member of the World-Class Modeling Talent Studios Team, affiliated with the International Modeling and Talent Association (IMTA). IMTA is a premier membership organization connecting the world’s top modeling and talent training centers. Since 1987, IMTA has hosted renowned conventions in New York and Los Angeles, featuring competitions in modeling, acting, singing, dancing, and songwriting. These events provide participants with workshops, seminars, awards ceremonies, and invaluable opportunities to network with leading agents, managers, casting directors, and producers in the fashion and entertainment industries.

Acting: Screen Test, Monologue, On-Camera Host, and Theatrical Headshot.

Modeling: Fashion Print, Runway, Jeans Runway, and TV Beauty.