FOSSI: Tell us a bit about yourself.
My name is Amiri Horn, and I am an honors graduate of Leodis V. McDaniel High School in Portland, 
Oregon. During my time at McDaniel, I was deeply involved in the STEM curriculum and completed two Career & Technical Education (CTE) programs in engineering and computer science. I also served on the CTE Student Advisory Council for Portland Public Schools, where I helped shape the future direction of engineering programs.
Throughout high school, I participated in a range of activities, including being a member of the National Honor Society, serving as treasurer of the Black Student Union, and competing in javelin and discus on the track team. One of my proudest accomplishments is founding and leading our award-winning FIRST Tech Challenge Robotics Team.
Outside of school, I serve as a STEM instructor and robotics coach for a local nonprofit organization. In this role, I mentor elementary and middle school students in Lego robotics competitions and develop educational materials on robotics and 3D printing, which I deliver in after-school programs and summer camps around Portland. I also volunteer my 3D printing skills for an organization that creates prosthetic hands for people in need.
I am currently attending North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University and pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering.
FOSSI: Why are you passionate about pursuing a degree in a STEM-related field?
From an early age, I’ve been fascinated by robotics, and I’ve had the support and encouragement of my family and mentors in finding my voice in STEM. Over the years, I’ve participated in various STEM programs, interned in biomimetics research at Portland State University, conducted research on microrobots at Oregon State University, and mentored students in STEM and robotics programs. My career goal is to design biologically accurate robotic prosthetics to help people in underrepresented and underserved communities. To achieve this, the next step is studying mechanical engineering, and I’m excited to pursue this at North Carolina A&T State University.
FOSSI: Who is a role model that has influenced you?
Mr. Antonio Jackson has been an incredibly influential mentor in my life. As the co-founder of Building Blocks 2 Success (BB2S), a nonprofit dedicated to supporting students in underrepresented communities pursuing STEM education, he has made a significant impact. I first met him at a First Lego robotics competition when I was six, and my parents enrolled me in his program. He consistently challenged me to use robotics to develop critical thinking and explore my passion for engineering. I continued with BB2S throughout elementary and middle school. Eventually, Mr. Antonio invited me to volunteer as a youth robotics coach and later hired me as a STEM instructor. His advocacy and support have been invaluable, inspiring me to pursue an engineering degree at an HBCU. I’m grateful for his mentorship and aspire to emulate his dedication to promoting STEM education in my community.
FOSSI: Fast forward, where do you see yourself in ten years?
In ten years, I see myself as an established mechanical engineer, having completed advanced degrees and research in robotics and biomimetics. I will be designing highly advanced, biologically accurate prosthetics to help improve mobility and quality of life for people in need in underrepresented communities, removing barriers that hinder them from pursuing their goals.
FOSSI: Share a few fun facts about yourself.
- I have four vicious (not really) Chihuahuas each named after famous jazz musicians: Dizzy, Hendrix, Ella, and Lena.
- I have been coaching First Lego robotics for four years, guiding kids aged five to 14 in competitions.
- I use my 3D printers not only to tackle engineering challenges but also to create cosplay headgear, masks, and accessories for Comic Con.
- When I was 12, I competed in the discus throw at the National Junior Olympics held at North Carolina A&T State University where I will now be attending, majoring in mechanical engineering.
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