• Brooke Owens Fellow, Class of 2026

• Latin American University of Science and Technology, Computer/Software Engineering, ‘26

• Mentor: TBD

• Brookie Mentor: TBD

Roxy Williams is a senior majoring in Computer & Software Engineering at the Latin American University of Science and Technology (ULACIT) with a strong interest in space systems, artificial intelligence applications in aerospace, and satellite mission design. As a proud Afro-Indigenous Latina, her work integrates software engineering, machine learning, and systems architecture to address complex challenges in space operations.

Roxy previously interned at Intel Corporation as a Software Developer, where she developed automation and machine learning workflows and optimized analytics dashboards, reducing validation times by 50%.

She has authored and co-authored research papers presented at the International Astronautical Congress (IAC), including work on Mercury Sample Return mission design, neuromorphic AI for autonomous spacecraft, commercial space station design, lunar healthcare concepts, and astronaut profile evolution studies. One of her teams was shortlisted for Best Interactive Presentation at IAC. She also received the Emerging Space Leader Award from the International Astronautical Federation, which funded her to present research on Earth observation and space education programs internationally. In addition, she completed microgravity training in California thanks to Space for Humanity, gaining hands-on experience in parabolic flight environments as part of her pursuit of human spaceflight.

Roxy serves as Regional Manager for Latin America at Cosmos for Humanity and was invited to present at the 32nd United Nations / International Astronautical Federation Workshop on Space Technology for Socio-Economic Benefits in Sydney, Australia. She also led the organization of Space Happy Hour in Houston, bringing together aerospace professionals.

Roxy was featured on the cover of Forbes 30 Under 30 Latin America, has also been featured in Women in Aerospace Magazine, Estrategia & Negocios Magazine and others. She was selected as a Reinvented Magazine Scholar and a Grace Hopper Celebration Scholar. Additional recognitions include the SGAC Pioneer Award, SGAC Regional Leadership Award, and Best Space Station Design at the Space Station Design Workshop hosted by the University of Stuttgart in Germany.

This summer, Roxy will work with Star Catcher Industries on the development of space-to-space power beaming spacecraft and the Star Catcher Network, an orbital power grid designed to deliver energy to satellites. She will collaborate with engineers on the development, testing, and optimization of spacecraft systems.

In her free time, she enjoys exploring nature, traveling, and mentoring students to build a career in space. She also leads Pantera Space, an initiative she founded that empowers individuals to use space as a tool to benefit earth while exploring our universe.