Brian Ramirez, PhD

Associate Professor, Mechanical Engineering Department
Cal Poly Pomona
PhD, Mechanical Engineering, UC Los Angeles
MS, Mechanical Engineering; Emphasis in Structural and Solid Mechanics, UC Los Angeles
BA, Mechanical Engineering; Minor in Material Science, Cal Poly Pomona

In his youth, Brian walked past the TELACU Corporate Headquarters every day on his way to school, and he still clearly recalls his very first interview for TELACU’s College Success Program. “My interviewers were none other than Priscilla and Dr. David Lizárraga, so you can only imagine that I was just a little nervous! In order to showcase my love for mechanical engineering, I brought with me some composite materials I had made and a robot I had built myself. The Lizárragas told me how impressed they were and selected me for a scholarship.

Since that first interview, the Foundation has greatly impacted my life in so many ways. The scholarship funds I received allowed me to focus on rigorous coursework and school activities without having to worry about getting a job to pay for education-related costs. I also had opportunities to meet people from my own community who had transformed into successful, accomplished professionals by obtaining Master’s degrees and PhDs, something I never dreamed possible for myself.”

Today, Dr. Brian Ramirez is Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering at his very own alma mater, Cal Poly Pomona! He stands at the front of his classroom, completing the full circle of empowerment made possible by the Foundation’s generous partners.

A TELACU Scholar and Graduate Fellow throughout his distinguished decade-long collegiate career, Brian’s ultimate goal is to serve as a role model to every young person who believes that their academic and professional dreams are out of reach. He shares, “I can remember being in the seats where my students now sit. And my greatest hope is that they will see my life and success, and dream big as I had the opportunity to do, thanks to the investments of the TELACU Education Foundation and its partners!”