On April 25, 2025, STEM Tank Season 7 brought together 35 talented students to present innovative research proposals addressing real-world challenges on campus and in the broader community. This season continued the program’s mission to foster problem-solving, collaboration, and research excellence among Central Piedmont students.
Students were guided throughout the season by a dedicated group of mentors who played a crucial role in helping participants shape and refine their proposals. We are grateful for the mentorship and support of: Dr. Hisham Abdel-Aal, Dr. Carl Arrington, Mrs. Lauren Carter, Dr. Jan Green, Mr. Quillie Hunt, Mr. Don Michael, Dr Heather Song, Mrs. Serenety Stokes.
During the final competition, students presented their work to a panel of judges who evaluated the proposals based on impact, feasibility, and innovation. Our sincere thanks to this season’s judges: Mr. Jordan Bertke, Dr. Carole Ingram, and Dr. Alain Miatudila.
Congratulations to all participants for their hard work and professionalism. STEM Tank Season 7 was a resounding success, and we look forward to seeing how these students continue to grow as future leaders in STEM.
Students: Bintou Keita, Areli Peru, Donavyn Phillips, Miguel Segundo.
Student leader: Abdelilah Guebdouri
Research mentor: Mrs. Lauren Carter
Project: Tap-In - an RFID-based system that records student attendance through ID card scans, providing real-time data storage, security, and improved administrative tracking.
Students: Ezekiel Amoako, Micah Monaghan, Nobin Subba.
Student leader: Robert Winecoff
Research mentor: Dr. Hisham Abdel-Aal
Project: Wi-Fix - A Wi-Fi Booster that expands the Received Signal Strength Indicator (RSSI) in Central Piedmont buildings that show heavy signs of radio waves.
Students: Wonjun Choi, Jayasmita Datta, Jean Paul Kabangu.
Student leader: Sierra Lawson
Research mentor: Mrs. Serenity Stokes
Project: LinkU  - a student success platform designed to centralize support systems, improve resource access, and foster peer connections for community college and trade school students