Javier Soliz

Name: Javier Soliz-Martinez
Age: 24
Major: B.S. in Mechanical Engineering and B.A. in Theatre (Technical Design)
Class: Senior
College: College of Engineering & Computer Science and College of Fine Arts
Hometown: McAllen, Texas
High School: Nikki Rowe High School / IB at Lamar Academy, McAllen 

Why UTRGV?
I chose UTRGV because it offered the perfect balance between familiarity and opportunity. Staying close to home made my transition to college easier while still allowing me to explore new paths. I knew I wanted to be a mechanical engineer and saw that UTRGV provided both real-world and research experience within the same program. Through internships in Minneapolis and Dallas, and working in the PREM lab on campus, I’ve gained hands-on experience that shaped my career goals. What really set UTRGV apart was its strong student support system. Financial Aid, scholarships, and grants have made it possible for me to graduate with two degrees and no student debt. Work-Study opportunities also helped me gain experience, connect with professors, and find my footing on campus.

What made you decide on your current majors?
I’ve always been curious about how things work. That curiosity started early — the first movie I ever saw in a theater was WALL-E for my 7th birthday, and from that point on, I was fascinated by robotics. In high school, I founded a robotics club, and we earned awards at every competition we entered. When I started at UTRGV, I joined Rocket Launchers as a freshman and have since gained valuable experience through projects, conferences, and internships. My focus has shifted toward aerospace engineering, and I’m excited to see where it takes me.

What surprises most people is that I’m also a Theatre major. Before 2022, I had no background in theatre, but I loved designing, 3D printing, and creating with CAD. During Frankenstein auditions that fall, I met the technical advisor and ended up building a mechanical hand for the production. Watching the show come together sparked a new passion — and I realized I could combine my engineering mindset with creativity. I started as a minor but quickly switched to a double major, and it’s one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.

What do you hope to achieve beyond graduation?
I want to build a career that blends both my worlds — engineering and theatre. After graduation, I plan to enter the aerospace or robotics industry, applying the technical skills I’ve gained through my studies and research. But theatre will always remain part of who I am. Whether I’m inventing something for production, designing interactive props, or contributing behind the scenes, I want to bring creativity into every aspect of my work. Science helps us understand the world — but the arts remind us why it’s worth understanding.

What do you like most about UTRGV?
The connection between students and professors. At larger universities, professors can feel out of reach, but at UTRGV, they make time for their students and genuinely care about their success. That mentorship and support have made all the difference in my academic journey, especially while managing two majors. 

What does being a Vaquero mean to you?
Being a Vaquero means taking every opportunity, working hard, and persevering through challenges. My time at UTRGV has been filled with experiences — from Rocket Launchers and Latino Theatre Initiatives to internships, conferences, and creative projects. I’ve pulled my share of all-nighters for both engineering finals and theatre productions, but every effort has shaped who I am today. It’s about giving your best, learning from every challenge, and being proud of your journey — no matter the outcome.

What advice do you have for fellow students?
Across both fields, I’ve learned lessons I carry every day:
“Algunos nacen con estrella, otros nacen estrellados. It’s what you do in life that matters.” – Drs. Lozano & Padilla
“You’ll cross that bridge when you get there.” – Mike Salazar
“Your work will speak for you when others won’t — but don’t forget to live for yourself.”