AFRL Scholar creates winning design

  • Published
  • By Jeanne Dailey
  • Air Force Research Laboratory
KIRTLAND AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. --  Air Force Research Laboratory Space Scholar Daniel Osuna finds that hard work pays off in amazing ways.

Last summer, as an intern with the AFRL Scholars program, Osuna's project was to design a new entrance for the AFRL Phillips Space Conference Center. Kirtland's Civil Engineer Division approved his design. Construction on the building began in January.

"My goal was to create a more inviting and functional entryway," Osuna said. "I am grateful to my mentor, Michael Gallegos, for his confidence in my skills and giving me the opportunity to create a winning design."

Gallegos, chief of the AFRL Infrastructure Management Branch, is so impressed with Osuna he hired him for an engineer/architect intern position.

"Daniel did a comprehensive study of the Americans with Disabilities Act in creating his design," Gallegos said. "He designed a beautiful and fully accessible entry that will allow anyone easy access to the facility. It offers a notable sense of arrival to all who enter the building."

Osuna, who will receive a master's degree in architecture from the University of New Mexico in May, encourages students interested in the AFRL Scholars program to apply.

"The Scholars program is a great opportunity. It allows students to get a glimpse of the important role AFRL researchers play in service and protection of our nation," he said. "It is important to work hard and ask a ton of questions. Every single mentor is there to help you."