Student Spotlight: Michael Gutierrez Is Engineering the Future

Sept. 25, 2026

For one Dallas College engineering student, the path to success has been shaped by perseverance, community and an unexpected family connection. Inspired by a passion for problem-solving and driven to break barriers as a Latina woman in STEM, Michael Gutierrez has found purpose through academics, leadership and helping fellow students pursue their goals.

Learn about Michael’s journey in the interview below.

Tell us your story. What led you to where you are today at Dallas College?  

I started at UT Dallas but was navigating a lot outside of school. Despite enjoying my time there and working hard, I eventually found my way to Dallas College. It felt like the right place to be, especially after I learned my parents met at Richland, just above the STEM Center where I spend most of my time. Knowing that changed the way I saw my time here and made it much more personal. I feel like I’m continuing a family legacy that started here, especially while pursuing something I’m passionate about.

Where did your interest in engineering come from? Was there a specific moment that inspired you?  

It started in high school through our robotics club. I visited the club as a photography student, but I quickly found myself spending more time around the robot than taking pictures. Being part of that team and seeing what everyone was creating is what sparked my interest in pursuing a future in engineering.

What was the biggest challenge you overcame during your college journey?  

While I was at UTD, I was balancing work and personal struggles. When things didn’t work out there, I realized it wasn’t because I wasn’t capable. I knew I had worked hard, and that gave me the confidence to keep moving forward. 

Did you find community when you arrived at Dallas College?  

I did, immediately. Richland students are incredibly welcoming and genuine, and that sense of connection helped me get involved and eventually join Student Government. I gained confidence and found opportunities to advocate for students, specifically students with disabilities. I had evidence of what I was capable of, especially when working alongside other motivated students.

As a Latina woman pursuing engineering, what does that journey mean to you?  

I pursue my degree for people like me and for the statistics I want to overcome. As a Latina woman, I’ve always been aware of the numbers that describe the paths we are statistically less likely to pursue. Although I don’t think about them as limits, I can’t pretend they aren’t there. Getting my degree would mean I get the chance to find a career I’m passionate about and build a life I want. In doing that, I know I am part of what slowly changes those statistics.

What impact do you hope to make through your work?

I’m drawn to thoughtful design that makes using machinery or a system much safer and values the person using it. Recently, I started a position at Richland’s STEM Center, where I’ve had the opportunity to help others discover what inspires them and move toward their goals.

What surprised you most about Dallas College?

The community here was the biggest surprise. People often assume community college students leave right after class, but Dallas College is full of connection, involvement and interesting people. You just have to stick around! 

What legacy do you hope to leave behind?  

That you really can do anything here. Dallas College offers so many opportunities, and I hope students feel encouraged to pursue what genuinely interests them.

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