Hispanic Heritage Month is a month-long celebration of Hispanic and Latino history and culture. While we celebrate Hispanic and Latino communities beyond this month, from September 15 to October 15 we give extra recognition to the many contributions made to the history and culture of the United States, including important advocacy work, vibrant art, popular and traditional foods, and much more.

Hispanic Heritage Month provides an additional opportunity to explore the incredible impact Latinas and Latinos have had on the United States for generations. The Latino presence in America spans centuries, predating Spain’s colonization of what is now part of the United States, and they have been an integral part of shaping our nation since the Revolutionary War. Today, their contributions are deeply felt across science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

Diana Trujillo

Diana Trujillo is a leading scientist, inspiring women and men alike with her groundbreaking work in the field of space exploration. Her passion for space and her determination to make a difference have made her a role model for aspiring scientists around the world.

Her journey from humble beginnings in Colombia to becoming an integral part of NASA’s Mars Curiosity rover mission serves as a testament to perseverance and dedication. Trujillo emphasizes: “Believe in yourself and your dreams. Only by taking risks and pushing boundaries can we truly achieve greatness.”

From advancing our understanding of the Martian landscape to advocating for more diversity in science, Trujillo continues to break barriers and inspire the next generation of explorers.

Dr. Frances Rivera-Hernández

Dr. Frances Rivera-Hernández runs the PLANETAS group at the Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech), where she serves as an Assistant Professor in the School of Earth & Atmospheric Sciences. Her research focuses on characterizing sedimentary deposits and landforms to interpret planetary surface conditions and habitability.

A native of Aguas Buenas, Puerto Rico, Rivera-Hernández also devotes her time to outreach, encouraging students from underrepresented communities to pursue STEM careers. Beyond her research, she enjoys traveling, walking through new cities, cooking, and exploring new restaurants, always learning and discovering, both inside and outside the lab.

Dr. Carlos Noriega

Dr. Carlos Noriega, born in Lima, Peru, is a retired U.S. Marine Corps lieutenant colonel, computer scientist, and NASA astronaut. Selected by NASA in 1994, Noriega flew aboard two Space Shuttle missions, including STS-84 and STS-97, where he helped deliver and install critical components of the International Space Station.

Noriega’s career represents the intersection of service, science, and exploration. His contributions to advancing space technology and international collaboration in orbit highlight the invaluable role Latinos have played in shaping our understanding of the universe.

Looking Ahead

From Diana Trujillo’s trailblazing work on Mars exploration, to Frances Rivera-Hernández’s planetary science research, to Carlos Noriega’s contributions aboard the Space Shuttle, Latinas and Latinos in STEM have left an indelible mark on history. Their perseverance, innovation, and advocacy remind us that the future of science is brighter and more inclusive when all voices are heard.

At EnCorps, we believe every student should be able to see themselves reflected in STEM leaders. By recognizing the impact of Hispanic and Latino scientists, engineers, and mathematicians, we reaffirm our commitment to inspiring the next generation of diverse STEM professionals who will continue to change the world.

Photo credit: Background image by David Garcia, “Huitzilopochtli” (2008) (Denver, CO)