Soaring to New Heights: Dwight DeBerry’s Journey to NASA Internship

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Dwight DeBerry’s journey to a NASA internship is a testament to the power of perseverance and passion. A Memphis native, DeBerry is a senior pursuing a dual major in architectural engineering and psychology at Tennessee State University.

Dwight Deberry

His path to NASA was unexpected, fueled by two years of dedicated research that included projects like the Tensegrity Structures initiative under Dr. Ranganathan Parthasarathy and a collaboration with the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) on cable barriers with Dr. Deo Chimba, both professors in the department of civil and architectural engineering at TSU.

Reflecting on his previous research, DeBerry admits, “At the time, I didn’t fully recognize the skills I was developing. My contributions felt routine, but they ultimately led me to this incredible opportunity at NASA.”

Currently, DeBerry is a Research Lab Assistant Intern at the Intelligent Tactical Mobility Robotics Laboratory at TSU, working on a NASA-sponsored project aligned with the Advanced Air Mobility mission where he focuses on emergency landing site identification for advanced air mobility systems.

His work is vital for integrating new air transportation methods that aim to connect underserved regions efficiently. Utilizing the IRIS interphase system developed by Dr. Amir Shirkhodaie, a TSU professor for mechanical and manufacturing engineering, DeBerry’s role involves applying optical imaging systems to enhance safety protocols for Urban Air Mobility (UAM).

He emphasizes, “Without our research, the deployment of UAM systems could face significant safety risks, including catastrophic failures.”

DeBerry and his graduate researchers’ team.

DeBerry stands out as the only undergraduate in a multidisciplinary team of graduate researchers specializing in various engineering fields. He leverages his architectural engineering background to assess spatial dynamics for safe landing zones, utilizing tools like Google Earth to ensure practical implementation within urban environments. “By combining our diverse skill sets, we create more comprehensive and resilient solutions,” he notes.

Throughout his internship, DeBerry has honed his technical skills in data analytics, advanced software applications, and interface development. He believes that his contributions lay a critical foundation for safe and reliable UAM operations, ultimately shaping the future of urban transportation.

“This internship is a step toward contributing to some of the world’s most significant advancements,” he reflects, aligning this experience with his aspirations in academia.

In addition to his academic pursuits, DeBerry is focused on expanding his business, “Extreme Dorm Makeover.” This venture aims to create safer and more convenient living spaces for students, helping them feel comfortable and at home in their environments.

After graduation, DeBerry plans to pursue a Ph.D. to deepen his expertise and contribute to impactful research. His long-term goal is to enter academia, where he hopes to blend research, teaching, and mentorship, nurturing the next generation of engineers. With a bright future ahead, DeBerry embodies the spirit of innovation and dedication, paving the way for exciting advancements in both engineering and education.

For more information on the College of Engineering, visit https://www.tnstate.edu/engineering/