Four mechanical and aerospace engineering students at New Mexico State University were awarded the 2025-2026 Tim Thompson Graduate Scholarship in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering. This prominent award honors outstanding students who have demonstrated academic excellence, leadership and a commitment to advancing research through the Master’s Accelerated Program.
This year’s scholarship recipients, Danielle Padilla, Tharwat Elkabani, Elizabeth Williams and Tony Flores, were honored at the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace’s senior banquet April 30 at the Stan Fulton Center.
Established in 2023, the Tim Thompson Scholarship supports students pursuing a master’s degree through the Master’s Accelerated Program. The award prioritizes students who earned their undergraduate degree at NMSU and graduated from a New Mexico high school. Each recipient is awarded $10,000, divided between fall and spring semesters, to support their graduate studies.
“Receiving the Tim Thompson Scholarship has provided me with the invaluable opportunity to focus more on my research by helping fund my graduate studies,” Flores said. “It is incredibly rewarding when others acknowledge your efforts and support your growth in such a generous way.”
A Belen, New Mexico native, Thompson earned a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from NMSU and a master’s degree from the University of New Mexico. His career includes groundbreaking work in dental technology, aerospace and greenfield commercial development. He is best known for leading companies such as IMTEC and HYTEC, and for receiving multiple awards recognizing innovation and business growth across the Southwest.
“Being chosen to receive the Tim Thompson Scholarship is such an incredible honor,” Padilla said. “It’s a reminder that all my efforts and commitment to my studies are recognized and valued.”
Each recipient brings a unique passion to their academic journey, from product design and satellite gripping systems to national security research and student mentorship. The scholarship not only offers financial relief but also connects students to a network of driven peers and professional opportunities.
“Receiving the Tim Thompson Scholarship motivates me to push forward and excel at my research,” Elkabani said. “It gives me the time and resources needed to mentor undergraduate students and focus on testing in the lab.”
“This scholarship alleviates financial stress, allowing me to explore new opportunities and focus more on school,” Williams said. “It motivates me to one day give back and support future students as I’ve been supported.”
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CUTLINE: From left: New Mexico State University graduate Tim Thompson recognized Tony Flores, Elizabeth Williams, Tharwat Elkabani and Danielle Padilla as the 2025-2026 Tim Thompson Graduate Scholarship Fund in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering recipients. (NMSU photo by Vladimir Avina)