Name:
Maleah Davis
High School:
Youngker High School (Class of 2025)
Postsecondary Plan:
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, studying Aerospace Engineering
Journey:
From Buckeye, Arizona, to building rockets in Prescott, Maleah Davis is a powerful example of what happens when curiosity, preparation, and opportunity collide.
A 2025 graduate of Youngker High School, Maleah is now a first-year aerospace engineering student at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Prescott. She is pursuing a future in the aerospace industry with dreams of contributing to organizations like NASA, SpaceX, Honeywell, or Raytheon and eventually stepping into leadership roles that shape the field.
Maleah did not always see herself as an engineer. Early interests leaned toward the arts, but a high school science class helped spark a passion for physics and problem-solving. That curiosity led her to explore careers connected to space and engineering, and she quickly realized aerospace engineering combined everything she loved, from design to hands-on building.
While at Youngker, Maleah took part in Western Maricopa Education Center‘s Energy and Manufacturing Systems program, committing long hours to gain real-world technical experience. She earned certifications, completed OSHA 10 training, and developed skills in mechanical and electrical systems that continue to give her confidence in college-level engineering courses.
At Embry-Riddle, Maleah has jumped right in. She is involved in PARSEC, a competitive engineering organization that recently placed first in a NASA-sponsored challenge, and Rocket Club, where she helps design, build, and launch rockets. She is also active in a sorority, building community and support as a woman in a male-dominated field.
One of her proudest achievements so far is landing a manufacturing internship with Raytheon as a freshman after networking at a campus career fair. This opportunity will give her hands-on experience in the aerospace and defense industry and help her explore future career paths.
Maleah credits Arizona GEAR UP for helping her reach this point, especially through scholarship guidance, college advising, and mentorship. Working closely with her GEAR UP counselor, Denise El Habach, she received support with applications, essays, and long-term planning. Now a GEAR UP alum, she gives back by speaking with students and sharing her college journey.
Looking ahead, Maleah plans to complete her degree, enter the workforce, and eventually pursue graduate studies in leadership or business. She hopes to one day support other students, especially women in STEM, through mentorship and scholarships.