Adrian Maez

 Graduate Spotlight: Adrian Maez
M.S. Electrical Engineering | Belen, New Mexico

Adrian Maez always knew he wanted to build something. As a kid, when asked what he wanted to be, his answer was simple: “An inventor.” That dream stuck with him and evolved into a passion for engineering. Growing up in Belen, New Mexico, just a short drive from Socorro, he first heard about New Mexico Tech from an elementary school principal who called it “Socorro Tech.” The name stuck, and so did the goal.

Adrian chose Tech because he wanted to stay close to home while immersing himself in science and math. After attending an engineering camp at NMSU, he realized his interests aligned more with electrical engineering than chemical or mechanical, especially after discovering his love for communications and signal processing. “I didn’t really know what electrical engineers did when I started,” he says with a laugh. “But I don’t regret a thing.”

During his time at Tech, Adrian grew both academically and personally. He served as president of IEEE during his senior year, found community in music and his Catholic faith, and tackled a rigorous academic journey. “The biggest challenge was figuring out how I work. Tech forced me to understand my learning style and strengths. That knowledge is going to carry me far.”

His research focuses on wireless communications, specifically how machine learning can empower both jammers and anti-jammers in spread spectrum systems, which are used in GPS and Bluetooth technology. “It’s a stepping stone,” Adrian says of his thesis. “I hope future students build on it, and maybe my work will help secure more research funding for Tech.”

Though Adrian will officially graduate in the summer due to thesis requirements, he is walking at commencement and celebrating alongside close friends Victor and Bishop, fellow Belen High grads who have been with him since the start. “We balanced each other out. We were like family.”

Another key figure in Adrian’s Tech journey is his friend and mentor, John. The two met during Adrian’s first week at Tech when they both worked at the Macey Center. John is one of the smartest people Adrian knows, intuitive, talented, and always willing to help. Even after John graduated and moved away, they stayed in close touch through video games, late-night calls, and shared laughs. John eventually returned to Socorro for his master’s and remains a huge source of support and inspiration in Adrian’s life.

Adrian also credits Dr. Aly El Osery (Dean of Graduate Studies), his graduate advisor, as one of the most meaningful mentors in his academic life. “Dr. El Osery has probably helped me more than anyone else here,” Adrian reflects. “He was there as my advisor through my research, guiding me when I didn’t know where to start. He is incredibly supportive and patient, but also really knowledgeable and clear about what needs to be done. Even when I doubted myself, he always believed in my ability to push forward. I am beyond grateful for his mentorship. It is hard to imagine completing this degree without him.”

Adrian’s success was also built on the foundation of strong family support, especially from his mom. “She has been my go-to for everything outside of school,” he says. “Whether it is figuring out insurance, helping me plan for the future, or just being there when I need something, she always shows up. Even when I don’t ask, she finds a way to help. I truly wouldn’t have made it through without her.”

Looking ahead, Adrian and his girlfriend are moving to Michigan, where she will pursue a master’s in space engineering at the University of Michigan. He is job hunting in the area and excited to enter a new phase of life with more music, less homework, and hopefully the same deep friendships that defined his time at Tech.

His advice for new students? “Talk to people. Upperclassmen, professors, lab mates. Get involved early. It will make your academic path smoother, and you will build the kind of community that carries you through the tough parts.”

Adrian, congratulations on all you have accomplished. Your blend of intellect, humility, creativity, and resilience represents the best of Tech. Welcome to the alumni family. We cannot wait to see what you do next.

🎸 When asked what his theme song would be, Adrian smiled and said he’s still deciding. 🎸 Stay tuned!