--- title: "#PeopleofSTEAM: Meet Ixchel" description: Meet Ixchel, a Nuclear Engineering student and American Ninja Warrior, whose journey with FIRST® ignited her passion for STEAM and inspired her to mentor the next generation. image: https://community.firstinspires.org/hubfs/first-blog_community_meetixchel-2.jpg --- Ixchel’s journey with *FIRST*® began at age five in *FIRST*® LEGO® League, empowering her to chart an exciting path from homeschool robotics enthusiast to real-world engineering warrior. She recalls a life-changing moment while attending *FIRST* Championship in 2013 and seeing *FIRST*® Robotics Competition robots for the first time: “Seeing those big robots in action ignited my passion,” said Ixchel. “Coming from a rural community with limited resources, I felt embraced by the *FIRST *community, my coaches and teammates, which motivated me to excel.” ![Ixchel as a FIRST Lego League student](https://community.firstinspires.org/hs-fs/hubfs/first-blog_community_meetixchel-1.jpg?width=451&height=382&name=first-blog_community_meetixchel-1.jpg) Today, she continues to be a passionate advocate and donor for *FIRST* and combines her enthusiasm for athletics and academics as a second-year Nuclear Engineering student at the University of New Mexico *and* as a competitor on the American Ninja Warrior stage. Ixchel is a champion for the next generation of innovators, embodying the transformative impact of *FIRST* and inspiring others to follow in her footsteps. Learn more about Ixchel’s remarkable STEAM journey in the Q&A below: ##### ***FIRST* Staff:** Can you share some information about your current studies at the University of New Mexico? **Ixchel:** I am now a sophomore studying Nuclear Engineering at the University of New Mexico. I am particularly interested in nuclear thermal propulsion for space exploration. I have the unique opportunity to conduct research at the university's nuclear reactor as a part of this program. My goal is to contribute to projects that push the boundaries of space exploration, like reactor work for rovers.  ##### ***FIRST* Staff:** What is the most challenging part of pursuing education in Nuclear Engineering? **Ixchel:** I do not come from a family with a STEAM background. I credit my mother’s dedication to exposing me [to STEAM] as a significant source of inspiration. Her support showed me that anyone can succeed in STEAM, regardless of their background. Having a voice and representation matters. This belief fuels my passion for mentoring others, especially young women, to explore careers in science and engineering.  ##### ***FIRST* Staff:** How do you use STEAM skills in your everyday work/life?   **Ixchel:** Through my involvement in* FIRST*, I have gained invaluable lessons that serve me in other areas of my life. Teamwork, perseverance, and innovation have helped me succeed. [The Core Values of *FIRST*](https://www.firstinspires.org/about#core-values) have shaped me since I was five years old. As a *FIRST *team mentor, I continue to be excited to help others understand *FIRST* Core Values as important life skills. These values extend beyond robotics from academics to sports to professional networking. [I have been able to use STEAM skills as the “Nerdy Ninja” on American Ninja Warrior](https://youtu.be/054yzpke6NU?si=1XDoBEe-HpGrMqeY). ![Ixchel on American Ninja Warrior](https://community.firstinspires.org/hs-fs/hubfs/first-blog_community_meetixchel-2.jpg?width=578&height=322&name=first-blog_community_meetixchel-2.jpg) ##### ***FIRST* Staff:** Can you share your thoughts on the impact of your personal/professional work in STEAM?  **Ixchel:** *FIRST* has made every dream I’ve had come true. My experience has translated into athletics and academics. I want to be a voice for change. My story is a testament to the impact of *FIRST* and the limitless potential within everyone. As I continue my journey in STEAM, I remain committed to mentoring others and advocating for inclusivity in the STEAM field.   ##### ***FIRST* Staff:** Who is a “Person of STEAM” who inspires you?   **Ixchel:** This journey has allowed me to connect with a diverse network of inspiring figures, including [Global STEM Ambassador, Jay Flores](https://community.firstinspires.org/peopleofsteam-meet-jay). We met during our latest runs on American Ninja Warrior and bonded over our love of *FIRST*. Like Jay, I want to show others that the opportunities are endless, and advocate for a world where anyone can achieve their dreams.  ![Ixchel and Jay Flores](https://community.firstinspires.org/hs-fs/hubfs/first-blog_community_meetixchel-3.jpg?width=347&height=401&name=first-blog_community_meetixchel-3.jpg) ##### ***FIRST* Staff:** Do you have a message you want to share for students who are participating in *FIRST* today?  **Ixchel:** I believe in the power of* FIRST* to inspire change. The values I learned are not just for robotics; they are life skills that can drive positive change in any community. Every goal I have had has been hit because of *FIRST*. I want others to experience embracing their passions and realize their potential.   Are you a person of STEAM? Share your story with #PeopleofSTEAM on social media or send us your story at [marketing@firstinspires.org](mailto:marketing@firstinspires.org). ** [Alumni](https://community.firstinspires.org/topic/alumni), [#PeopleofSTEAM](https://community.firstinspires.org/topic/peopleofsteam) #### Share it: [** ](https://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=https://community.firstinspires.org/peopleofsteam-meet-ixchel) [** ](https://twitter.com/share?url=https://community.firstinspires.org/peopleofsteam-meet-ixchel) [** ](http://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https://community.firstinspires.org/peopleofsteam-meet-ixchel) ![Default Author Image](https://community.firstinspires.org/hubfs/Community%20Blog%20v2/images/FIRST-author-icon.svg) Author [FIRST Staff](https://community.firstinspires.org/author/first) These blog posts have been contributed by members of *FIRST* staff. *FIRST* is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization headquartered in Manchester, N.H. ### Related Posts ** [#PeopleofSTEAM](https://community.firstinspires.org/topic/peopleofsteam), [Featured](https://community.firstinspires.org/topic/featured), [Educators](https://community.firstinspires.org/topic/educators), [Mentor Stories](https://community.firstinspires.org/topic/mentor-stories) #PeopleofSTEAM: Meet Ed September 30, 2025 ** [Educators](https://community.firstinspires.org/topic/educators), [Mentor Stories](https://community.firstinspires.org/topic/mentor-stories) Teacher inspires a culture change through high school robotics and crowdfunding June 1, 2020 ** [STEM for Everyone](https://community.firstinspires.org/topic/stem-for-everyone), [#PeopleofSTEAM](https://community.firstinspires.org/topic/peopleofsteam), [Featured](https://community.firstinspires.org/topic/featured), [Educators](https://community.firstinspires.org/topic/educators), [Mentor Stories](https://community.firstinspires.org/topic/mentor-stories) #PeopleofSTEAM: Meet Enmanuel August 22, 2025 ![](https://www.facebook.com/tr?id=1200203950045814&ev=PageView&noscript=1) ![](https://ct.pinterest.com/v3/?tid=2615041699514&noscript=1) ![](https://ct.pinterest.com/v3/?tid=2615041699514&event=PageVisit&noscript=1)