Built in the real world.
Pedro Villafranco: Fort Worth → MIT ’30. I work on human-first software + hardware projects made for real life.
A few projects I've worked on.
If you don't scroll down further, see these projects.
Ideas behind the process.
Growing up in tornado alley, meteorology was my first introduction to engineering. Experiencing massive thunderstorms firsthand, I realized the atmosphere was far more complex, and intuitive, than it first appeared. I think ML has real life-saving applications in forecasting, especially when decisions have to be made in a split-second.
Working in my community showed me the disparity of technological literacy. I taught myself how to navigate the digital world, and along the way learned not just technical skills, but the value of thoughtful curation and clear, transparent guardrails.
Support has always been important to me. Tutoring became a way to give back to my community: meeting people where they are, lowering the barrier to ask questions, and making progress feel achievable. I see education as one of the best ways to create lasting, renewing change.
I believe creativity is what sets apart the best from the rest. From graphic design, to music, all of these elements are important to the final product, and in the creative process, can inspire us and teach us new things.
Milestones along my journey.
Built a machine learning app to help visually impaired persons navigate crosswalks.
Developed computer vision system to automate full building-monitoring.
Worked in management, imaging, and inventory of 800+ devices across 4 campuses, and hands-on device internal repair and inspection.
Balancing a heavy Cybersecurity pathway course load, leadership, and band rehearsals. Graduating with 41 credits + UT Austin/TCC credits.
Pursuing studies in Course 6-5: Electrical Engineering with Computing. Gaining cutting-edge skills and resources to turn ideas into reality. Mens et manus — mind and hand.