SEBASTIAN SOTO
DeKalb,IL
Summary
Motivated Mechanical Engineering student eager to apply classroom knowledge to real-world experiences, with a strong willingness to learn and contribute. Effective communicator with a collaborative mindset, ready to bring fresh perspectives and a strong work ethic to any team.
Overview
2
2
years of professional experience
Work History
NIU Supermileage Team
09.2026 - Current
- Contribute to vehicle-system improvements focused on performance and reliability.
- Work on a redesigned dynamometer brake system to address limitations of the existing design.
- Collaborate with team members to investigate design improvements and engineering solutions.
- Northern Illinois University
NIU Research Rookies — Robotic Dog Project
08.2026 - Current
- Participate in a first-year research opportunity working with faculty-led engineering research.
- Contribute to a project applying artificial intelligence to control a robotic dog.
- Gain experience in robotics, engineering problem-solving, and the research process.
- Northern Illinois University
Maine West Highschool
Supermileage Team
08.2025 - 05.2026
- Led chassis design and fabrication, optimizing geometry and materials for aerodynamics, weight, and structural integrity.
- Applied CAD and fabrication skills to build the chassis, weld components, and assist with steering and braking systems.
- Analyzed testing and lap data to identify improvements in fuel efficiency and vehicle performance.
- Maine West High School
Discovery Village — Food Server
08.2025 - 08.2026
- Served retirement home residents while maintaining professional communication and accurate, timely meal service.
- Maintained clean and organized dining areas while following food safety procedures.
- Demonstrated reliability, teamwork, communication, and attention to detail.
Mystic Waters Aquatic Park — Concessions Employee
01.2025 - 01.2026
- Prepared fresh food, maintained inventory, and provided customer service in a fast-paced environment.
- Followed food safety, sanitation, and health-code requirements.
- Worked with team members to maintain an organized and efficient service area.
- Summers
Education
B.S. - Mechanical Engineering
Northern Illinois University
DeKalb, IL05-2030
Graduated -
Maine West High School
Des Plaines, IL05-2026
Skills
CAD: Fusion 360, CAD, Revit (Basic), 3D Modeling
Fabrication: 3D Printing, Laser Cutting, MIG Welding
Engineering: Chassis Design, Mechanical Design, Robotics
Programming: Python, NumPy
Languages: English, Spanish Spanish Seal of Biliteracy
ACTIVITIES & LEADERSHIP
- Northern Illinois University: Supermileage Team | SHPE | Engineers Without Borders | Research Rookies
- Maine West High School: Student Ambassador — Treasurer | Link Crew | NHS | NEHS | NSHS | Pi Sigma Pi
- Cook County Election Judge: Grades 11–12
Timeline
NIU Supermileage Team
09.2026 - Current
NIU Research Rookies — Robotic Dog Project
08.2026 - Current
Maine West Highschool
Supermileage Team
08.2025 - 05.2026
Discovery Village — Food Server
08.2025 - 08.2026
Mystic Waters Aquatic Park — Concessions Employee
01.2025 - 01.2026
B.S. - Mechanical Engineering
Northern Illinois University
Graduated -
Maine West High School