[Ramona] aims for a career in academia where she can build collaborative research communities while mentoring the next generation of aerospace engineers and computer scientists.

Ramona Cheng is pursuing dual bachelor’s degrees in aerospace engineering and computer science. Growing up in an immigrant family, Ramona developed independence that serves her well in research environments involving challenging technical projects.

Ramona’s research experience encompasses multiple prestigious laboratories and institutions. Currently, she is a researcher in the Space-FALCON Lab. There, Ramona assists in developing augmented virtual reality systems to simulate space environments. She also worked at Shanghai Jiao Tong University’s Smart and Connect Systems Lab, where she integrated dedicated lanes into urban mobility simulations. Her earlier work in the Quantum Optics Lab involved helping to design and build precision instruments for laser cooling experiments.

Ramona’s professional experience demonstrates her exceptional technical leadership and systems thinking. As an avionics software engineer on Michigan Model-Based Systems Engineering’s Blue Origin Payload Project, Ramona designs and tests aerospace-grade payload systems, develops software, and conducts rigorous testing protocols to meet Blue Origin’s stringent flight quality standards. Her role as console operator with the Michigan Aeronautical Science Association showcases her ability to lead complex development projects and operate control systems during critical testing phases.

Ramona is also committed to fostering gender diversity in STEM and is active in Women in Aeronautics and Astronautics. After benefitting from mentorship as a freshman, Ramona stepped into a leadership role in which she mentored other students. Her work as a program assistant for the Women in Science and Engineering Residency Program further demonstrates her dedication to supporting women and gender minorities in STEM fields.

After she graduates in May 2026, Ramona will pursue a doctorate in aerospace engineering with a specialization in controls. Ultimately, she aims for a career in academia where she can build collaborative research communities while mentoring the next generation of aerospace engineers and computer scientists.

CEW+ honors Ramona’s leadership as a woman in STEM and names her an Irma M. Wyman Scholar.