NASA Engineer and Author Zaida Hernandez

NASA Engineer and Author Zaida Hernández to Speak at Southeast New Mexico College for Hispanic Heritage Month

(Carlsbad, NM) Southeast New Mexico College is excited to announce that Zaida Hernández, a Latina space engineer and children’s book author, will be joining us as a guest speaker on Wednesday, September 24, from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. The event is completely free and open to the public.

Zaida currently works at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas, where she helps design lunar architecture as part of NASA’s efforts to send humans back to the moon. She earned both her Bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering and Master’s in Industrial Engineering from the University of Houston and proudly became the first engineer in her family.

Not only is she an engineer, but she’s also a passionate advocate for STEM education and a children’s book author. Her latest book, “Luz Lucero, Niña Astronauta (Kid Astronaut),” encourages kids especially those from underrepresented communities to see themselves in space and science.

Known on social media as “The Space Latina,” Zaida shares scholarships, internships, and STEM opportunities, while also opening up about her journey as a Latina woman in engineering. Her goal is simple: to show young people that space is not just for astronauts it’s for everyone.

“We are honored to welcome Zaida to Southeast New Mexico College,” said Erick Dominguez, STEM Program Manager. “Zaida’s journey shows our students that the sky is not the limit it’s just the beginning. Her story proves that with dedication and resilience, anyone can reach for the stars. Having her with us is a reminder that representation matters and that our students can see themselves as the future of STEM.”

This event is part of SENMC’s celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month and highlights the college’s commitment to showcasing diverse voices in STEM. Everyone is invited students, families, and anyone who wants to hear an incredible story about perseverance, culture, and the future of space exploration.

For more information, please contact:
Erick Dominguez
STEM Program Manager
(575) 234-9424 | edominguez@senmc.edu