
Hobbies and interests
Soccer
Chess
Mock Trial
Robotics
Martial Arts
Wrestling
Makaio Cato
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Finalist1x
Winner
Makaio Cato
1x
Finalist1x
WinnerBio
My name is Makaio Cato, and I am a 17-year-old senior at the University of Detroit Jesuit High School. I have always been passionate about learning, especially in math and physics, which is why I am currently taking AP Calculus and AP Physics. My dream is to become a mechanical engineer, using my problem-solving skills to design solutions that make a real difference in the world.
Outside the classroom, I’ve had the privilege of serving as a counselor and teacher with Math Corps, Keys 2 Life Camp, and The Yunion. These experiences taught me the importance of mentorship, leadership, and giving back to my community.
I also enjoy being active and creative. I play both school and club soccer, practice martial arts, and participate in chess and robotics clubs. Music is another outlet for me—I’ve been playing the piano for years. Each of these activities has shaped me into someone who is disciplined, resilient, and eager to keep growing while helping others do the same.
Education
University Detroit Jesuit Hs
High SchoolMiscellaneous
Desired degree level:
Bachelor's degree program
Majors of interest:
- Mechanical Engineering
Career
Dream career field:
Mechanical or Industrial Engineering
Dream career goals:
Bio-Rad Michigan Scholarship
WinnerOne of the next major engineering advancements will be the development of intelligent, affordable robotics and AI-powered machines that can assist people in everyday life. While robots already exist in factories and research labs, I believe the next breakthrough will be making advanced robotic systems accessible enough to help ordinary people around the world with healthcare, transportation, construction, disaster response, and daily living.
I became interested in engineering because I enjoy understanding how things work and finding ways to improve them. Through robotics, math, and physics, I have learned that engineering is not just about building machines, it is about solving problems that affect real people. That is why I believe robotics and AI will have such a powerful global impact in the future.
One area where this advancement could make a major difference is healthcare. In many parts of the world, there are not enough doctors, nurses, or medical resources to care for growing populations. Intelligent robotic assistants could help perform basic medical screenings, deliver supplies, assist surgeons, or support elderly and disabled individuals with daily tasks. This could improve access to healthcare for millions of people, especially in underserved communities.
Another important impact will be in dangerous environments. Engineers are already designing robots that can enter disaster zones, explore collapsed buildings, or assist during wildfires and chemical spills. As these technologies improve, they will save lives by protecting both victims and emergency responders. I think this will become increasingly important as natural disasters and global environmental challenges continue to grow.
I also believe intelligent robotics will transform transportation and manufacturing. Smarter systems could make travel safer by reducing accidents caused by human error. In manufacturing, robots could increase efficiency while allowing humans to focus on more creative and technical work. However, I believe engineers will also need to think carefully about the ethical side of these advancements, including job displacement, privacy, and responsible AI development.
What excites me most is that engineering allows people to create solutions that improve lives across the globe. As someone interested in mechanical and aerospace engineering, I hope to contribute to technologies that make systems more efficient, reliable, and accessible. Whether designing machines, improving robotics, or solving transportation challenges, I want my work to have a positive impact beyond myself.
The next major advancement in engineering will not simply be smarter machines. It will be creating technology that works alongside people to solve global problems and improve quality of life. I believe engineers will play one of the most important roles in shaping the future, and that is one reason I am excited to pursue this field.