Students from Chico State University showcased a range of inventive projects during the College of Engineering Senior Capstone Expo held on December 12, 2025. Among the highlights was a drone attachment designed by a team led by student Conor Daly, aimed at facilitating prescribed burns to manage vegetation effectively.
The team initially considered using napalm for their project but quickly dismissed the idea due to legal and ethical concerns. Instead, they developed a device that drops “dragon eggs,” which are small, Ping-Pong-like balls that ignite brush fires upon impact. The project reflects a year-long collaborative effort between students and industry partners, intended to make a tangible impact in real-world scenarios.
Collaborative Efforts and Challenges
Daly’s team partnered with the Tehama County Resource Conservation District, which sought to implement a drone program. Unfortunately, the partnership faced a setback when a key employee left the organization, leading to the district’s withdrawal from the project. Despite this, the team secured funding from Chico State to continue their work. Daly noted that while drones of this kind typically cost around $40,000, their solution, including the provided drone, came in under $4,000.
At the expo, other projects were equally impressive. Engineering students Devin Lamoreaux and Jonathan Garcia presented their Vehicle Break Characterizer, showcasing the diverse capabilities developed by students throughout the program. The event attracted students, faculty, and industry representatives, all eager to engage with the innovative designs.
Real-World Experience and Industry Connections
The capstone program at Chico State is designed to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and professional experience. Each project team is assigned a faculty adviser, who plays a crucial role in helping students forge connections with industry sponsors. David Alexander, Dean of the College of Engineering, emphasized the importance of this mentorship, stating that faculty are involved in establishing partnerships even before projects commence.
After securing sponsorship, teams dedicate one semester to the design phase, refining their project goals through ongoing discussions. The second semester is focused on the implementation of their designs, culminating in the expo presentation. Alexander described the process as “very much an iterative process,” highlighting the growth students experience as they transition from academia to the workforce.
Students not only gain valuable experience but often secure job opportunities through their capstone projects. Alexander noted, “What they go through — how they transform from a student to a young professional — is just amazing.” The expo serves as a platform for students to demonstrate their skills and creativity, showcasing the hard work and dedication that goes into each project.
As the event concluded, Daly expressed hope that a new company would engage with future capstone teams to further develop their drone technology. The spirit of innovation and collaboration at Chico State continues to inspire engineering students, equipping them with the skills needed to make significant contributions in their fields.
