Engineering Change on the Ground: Tackling Global Challenges in Namibia

At Embry-Riddle, engineering projects frequently take students far beyond the classroom. Last summer, one such challenge led a team of undergraduate engineers across the world to Namibia — a land of sweeping red dunes, the vast salt pan of Etosha and savannas where poaching is a major concern.

Africa is tragically losing four elephants per hour, according to the nonprofit Elephants, Rhinos & People (ERP). To combat this crisis, Embry-Riddle student-engineers partnered with ERP to develop a solution to the escalating human-elephant conflict. Their goal was clear: keep elephants away from populated areas while ensuring access to essential resources like water.

This innovative initiative, known as the “Jumbo Shoo” project, was made possible by a generous gift from alumnus Dom Narducci (’11) and his wife, Lauren Lockliear, as well as support from ERP and Education Partners International. Their philanthropy provided students with invaluable hands-on experience that not only sets them apart in a competitive job market but also bridges academic learning with practical, on-the-ground application.

Turning Knowledge into Action

Under the leadership of Dr. Elliott Bryner, chair and associate professor of Mechanical Engineering, the student team developed a system that detects elephant movements and triggers ground vibrations, mimicking seismic signals that elephants naturally use to communicate. The intent is to gently deter elephants from approaching human settlements.

“Jumbo Shoo is a powerful example of how engineering ingenuity can meet global conservation needs,” says Dr. Bryner. “Our students didn’t just follow the textbook — they created a solution that addresses a critical real-world issue.”

Dr. Kenneth Witcher, chancellor of Embry-Riddle’s Prescott Campus, echoes this sentiment. “This project exemplifies our mission to foster the next generation of leaders capable of solving complex global challenges. It demonstrates the transformative power of engineering in making a real difference.”

Releasing Learning to the Wild

For the students, this fieldwork not only developed their technical skills but also expanded their role as global problem-solvers.

“It’s one thing to study theory in class, but applying it in the field is completely different,” says mechanical engineering student Gabriel Ledezma. “This project gave us the freedom to innovate and brought our education to life.”

Mechanical engineering major Olivia Wood agreed: “It was a huge leap for me. Knowing that our work helped protect both people and elephants gave me a real sense of purpose.”

The unique environment of Namibia, with its challenging terrain and vast wildlife habitats, pushed students to adapt their engineering skills in ways they hadn’t anticipated. Their work illustrated that engineering solutions must consider not just technical factors but also environmental and social impacts.

Philanthropy Fuels Future Leaders

None of this would have been possible without philanthropic support. The couple’s gift allowed these students to experience engineering in action, providing them with the hands-on experience and adaptability that employers seek.

Thanks to this generosity, Embry-Riddle students are not only prepared to succeed in their careers but are also poised to make a lasting difference in the world — improving life for both people and wildlife. Namibia, known as the “land of endless horizons,” broadened the perspectives of these future engineers, ensuring that their horizons will remain as limitless as their potential.

Thanks to Keaton Ziem for his reporting.