CU Denver College of Engineering

Sometimes all it takes is one conversation to change the course of your future.

When outdoor enthusiast Corey Cox stopped by the CU Denver booth at Outside Days, he discovered a new path that combined his passion for outdoor gear with engineering. Today, he’s one of the early graduates of CU Denver’s Outdoor Gear track within the Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering program.

Through hands-on learning in the Outside Lab, Cox gained experience in product design, testing, data analysis, and industry collaboration — building the skills and confidence to pursue a career he once thought was out of reach.

His story is a powerful reminder that career-changing opportunities can start with a simple moment of curiosity.

Learn how CU Denver students are turning passion into profession through outdoor industry innovation: https://ucdengineeringnews.com/2026/05/31/the-outside-lab-cu-denver-is-building-colorados-next-generation-of-outdoor-innovators/

As Denver gears up for the Outside Festival, innovation is happening just across the street at CU Denver.

In the College of Engineering, Design and Computing’s Outside Lab, students are designing gear, testing products, building prototypes, and tackling real-world challenges connected to Colorado’s thriving outdoor recreation economy. Through a unique partnership with Outside Inc., they’re gaining hands-on experience that bridges the gap between the classroom and industry.

From sustainability and human-centered design to product development and field testing, these students are building the skills — and portfolios — that help launch careers before graduation.

Learn how CU Denver students are helping shape the future of the outdoors. Read more: https://ucdengineeringnews.com/2026/05/30/at-denvers-outside-days-cu-denver-students-are-already-building-the-future-of-the-outdoors/

At CU Denver, engineering research is focused on real human challenges. Biomedical engineering researcher and assistant professor Brisa Peña, PhD, has earned a prestigious NIH Trailblazer Award for work aimed at improving organ transplantation outcomes and expanding access to life-saving care. Her research explores how engineered biomaterials could help prevent transplant rejection before it starts—potentially increasing the number of viable donor organs and improving patient outcomes.

It’s a powerful example of how public university research can create meaningful impact for communities and healthcare systems alike. Read the full story: https://ucdengineeringnews.com/2026/05/26/brisa-pena-earns-nih-trailblazer-award-to-rethink-the-future-of-organ-transplantation/

Today, we celebrate the engineers, problem-solvers, innovators, and future leaders ready to take on what’s next.

Class of 2026, you’re not just earning a degree. You’re joining a powerful network of alumni designing, building, researching, and creating solutions that are changing lives and shaping the future around the world.

Your next moment starts now, and the impact you’ll make is just beginning. Congratulations, graduates 🎓

Celebrating the engineers, innovators, and changemakers ready to shape what comes next.

Our Spring 2026 Outstanding Graduates f have demonstrated what’s possible through determination, collaboration, and a commitment to solving real-world challenges. Whether conducting research, developing new technologies, leading teams, or gaining hands-on industry experience, these students have consistently turned knowledge into action.

They represent the future of engineering: bold thinkers and problem-solvers driven to create meaningful impact across industries and communities. Their achievements reflect not only academic excellence, but the persistence and vision required to lead in an evolving world.

This is Part II of honoring the exceptional graduates building the future through innovation, purpose, and possibility. Follow CEDC for more student stories, engineering breakthroughs, career opportunities, and the voices shaping the future of innovation.

Celebrating the newest generation of engineers, innovators, and problem-solvers. Our Spring 2026 Outstanding Graduates have distinguished themselves through academic excellence, hands-on innovation, and a drive to create solutions that improve lives and strengthen communities. From the classroom to the lab, from research projects to industry experience, they’ve pushed boundaries and turned ideas into impact.

These graduates represent the future of engineering: collaborative, forward-thinking, and grounded in purpose. They are designing smarter systems, advancing technology, and building a better future through curiosity, resilience, and determination.

This is Part I of celebrating the exceptional students shaping what’s next in engineering and beyond.

Follow CEDC for student success stories, innovation highlights, career insights, and the people driving the future of engineering.

Commencement marks the milestone. This is where you take it in. Join us for the CEDC Graduation Celebration immediately following the ceremony, created for graduates to connect with the college, spend time with peers, and celebrate what this moment represents.

Saturday, May 16, 2026
5:00–7:00 p.m.
Left Hand Brewing, Denver

Come as you are and stay in the moment. Food and non-alcoholic beverages will be available. RSVP here: https://ucdenverdata.formstack.com/forms/cedc_commencement_celebration_sp_2026