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In a remarkable demonstration of innovation and environmental consciousness, three College of Aeronautics and Engineering students have claimed second place in the prestigious 2023-2024 . Their groundbreaking project, "," showcases the intersection of aviation and environmental sustainability while embodying the College of Aeronautics and Engineering's motto to "Dare Mighty Things."

Team leader Cassidy Farnsworth, along with team members Madeline Goussios and Reilly Ferrie, developed an innovative solution to address air quality challenges in airport terminal pickup and drop-off areas. Their design features a sophisticated system that uses microalgae to purify air contaminated by vehicle emissions, transforming harmful pollutants into clean oxygen through photosynthesis.

"When I stumbled across an article discussing the impressive capabilities of microalgae in battling climate change, I knew I wanted to find a way to tie that technology into the world of aviation," says Farnsworth, whose leadership helped guide the team through the complex project.

The team's success story began in an unexpected place—Florence, Italy. All three team members first met during the college’s July 2023 Study Abroad program, where they took Dr. Lorenzon's Aviation Security and Policy course. This international experience laid the foundation for their future collaboration and exemplifies how Kent State's global education initiatives create lasting connections among students.

"…Semesters abroad [allow students to] partake in truly life-changing experiences," reflects Ferrie. It's where the threesome first connected as classmates, and that connection ultimately led to their amazing research opportunity.

Under the guidance of faculty advisor Dr. I. Richmond Nettey, the team faced and overcame numerous challenges, including mastering complex scientific concepts outside their primary field of study. Their success demonstrates the value of Kent State's interdisciplinary approach to education.

"Dr. Nettey's mentorship was instrumental," says Goussios. "His knowledge and advice helped make our project the very best it could be."

The project has already opened new doors for team members. Ferrie has continued his research journey under Dr. Lorenzon through the Summer Undergraduate Research Experience (SURE) program. “My research in UAS and AAM has also led to numerous networking opportunities, real world experiences and applications, and even award opportunities,” says Ferrie.

Farnsworth discovered a passion for research that inspired her to pursue graduate studies. “This experience allowed me to discover my ability to do and enjoy research,” she reflects. “It was the final push I needed to apply for graduate school.”

Goussios, a flight instructor at Kent State's airport, gained valuable insights that she'll carry into her career as an airline pilot. “This project has opened my mind up to thinking outside the box,” she says. “And there is more work to be done in our field.”

The team's achievement extends beyond the competition itself. They presented their findings at the 2024 Annual Conference in Columbus, networking with industry leaders and gaining real-world presentation experience. Their work also earned recognition from the .

For students considering similar opportunities, the team's advice is clear: Embrace the challenge. "It may seem overwhelming at first," Goussios shares, "but the information you learn, the people you work with, and the impact it could make is well worth the time spent on it."

The success of these students exemplifies the opportunities available at Kent State's College of Aeronautics and Engineering. From study abroad programs to national competitions, undergraduate research to industry networking, students have numerous pathways to push boundaries and prepare for successful careers.

Ready to launch your own journey? There's a place for you to explore, innovate, and excel at Kent State’s College of Aeronautics and Engineering. As these three students have shown, when you dare to think bigger and reach higher, the sky's no longer the limit—it's just the beginning.