Digital Commons Network^™

Trust And Pre-Employment Background Checks When Onboarding And Maintaining Information Security And Cybersecurity Staff, Stanley Mierzwa

Center for Cybersecurity

The realm of trust is broad and can include many facets that are difficult to capture and catalog. In relation to the work roles of information security and cybersecurity, the intersection of trust in human resource management is critical and an evolving area within most modern organizations, in almost any sector, and of any size. A foundational element of trust is fundamental to effective mission and work roles in information security and cybersecurity, as well as to every employee tasked with contributing to the security of an organization’s assets. This chapter will include sections on the role trust can and …

Stock Market Analysis And Volatility Behavior During The Covid-19 Pandemic, Manoj Venkatachalaiah, Soon Leong Yeap, Salman Ahmed Lnu, Sangwhan Cha

Harrisburg University Other Works

This report outlines the structural design, cloud implementation, and analytical findings of a scalable Big Data architecture deployed on Google Cloud Platform (GCP). The primary objective is to investigate the macroeconomic and microeconomic disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic on global equities, focusing on two dominant digital business models: online retail/cloud computing (Amazon, Inc. - AMZN) and subscription-based digital streaming entertainment (Netflix, Inc. - NFLX). Through a serverless orchestration pipeline leveraging GCP Cloud Run, automated workflows fetched and blended high-velocity epidemiological metrics alongside daily financial asset layers. Data transformations and parallel analytical calculations were executed utilizing Apache Beam pipelines inside …

Electric Vehicle Charging Station Project, Fangling Zhu

2026 Spring Reports (Terre Haute)

The electronic vehicle (EV) charging station project was developed through a partnership between BUS 205 Business Statistics at Indiana State University and the City of Terre Haute as part of the Sustainable Cities Program. The city’s goal for this project is associated with the Theme: resilient infrastructure. The strategy RI-1 is to create a more resilient power grid. Terre Haute, aiming to advance sustainability and reduce emissions amidst growing EV adoption, faces challenges of limited charging infrastructure. Students work in four different groups and explore the optimization location for EV charging stations in the City of Terre Haute. The students …

Reinforced Concrete Design Fundamentals, Belen Stephanie Martinez Espinoza, Estevan Jacob Perez

Architectural Engineering

Hispanic workers make up a large and growing portion of the construction workforce in the United States; particularly in California, the percentage of construction workers who are Hispanic is estimated to be about 55% as of 2021 (Elkins). Many of these workers are Spanish-speaking, yet there is still a gap between technical engineering design and what is understood and applied in the field. One major reason for this gap is the lack of clear bilingual resources. To bridge the gap, a 48-page bilingual booklet titled Reinforced Concrete Design Fundamentals (Fundamentos del Diseño de Concreto Reforzado in Spanish) was created. This …

Tanzania Mbesese Initiative 2026, June Ezzell, Sam Liebman, Noah Beyer, Kate Hamilton, Luke Vollert, Kylee Borgen, Cody Balazs, Meg Mclaughlin

Architectural Engineering

The Tanzania Mbesese Initiative 2026 Senior Project supports a multi-year design-build effort to establish the Same Polytechnic College in Same, Tanzania. This community faces high poverty levels and limited access to higher education, necessitating sustainable infrastructure to support tertiary education. To prepare for the upcoming July phase of construction, an eight-student Architectural Engineering team designed three practical and resilient structures: a Shade Structure, a Water Collection Structure, and a Reusable Scaffolding system. The final design applied structural analysis, modeling, and hand-tool fabrication practice to balance material efficiency with long-term structural durability. The deliverables provide comprehensive construction documentation, complete material takeoffs, …

Design And Implementation Of A Honeycomb Damping System For The 2026 Eeri Seismic Design Competition, Vera Nguyen, Lauryn Wojcik

Architectural Engineering

The authors of this report were a part of the 2026 Earthquake Engineering Research Institute (EERI) chapter at California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo. In July 2026, they will travel to Portland, Oregon with 12 students to compete in the Undergraduate Seismic Design Competition hosted by EERI. The competition required teams to develop a comprehensive structural design proposal that included computer-based modeling and analysis, construction of three physical models, and the preparation of both a technical poster and oral presentation for a proposed high-rise building located in Portland, Oregon. Cal Poly’s “Illahee Tower” was designed with an emphasis on …

Effects Of Overcorrection On Mitigating Uncontrolled Tipping During Incisor Retraction Using Clear Aligners: Finite Element Analysis And In Vitro Experiment, Jianing Wang, Niko Burger, Bo Wang, Linxia Gu, Pengfei Dong

Biomedical Engineering Faculty Research and Publications

Uncontrolled tipping during incisor retraction with clear aligners continues to limit orthodontic treatment. Different countermeasures have been proposed to improve the predictability of aligners, such as power ridges and attachments, while their efficacy requires further investigation. This work investigated the biomechanics of the overcorrection in reducing the tipping angle and moment during incisor retraction with a clear aligner, through in vitro experiments and finite element analysis (FEA). Specifically, the influence of overcorrection angle (1 deg), retraction distance (0.15 mm), and the combination of both were assessed through in vitro experiments and the finite element simulation. Further computational simulations were conducted …

Early Dementia Tracking Utilizing Virtual Reality, Gabriel Deguzman, Manuel Hernandez, Ryan Iglesias, Jose Ornelas

General Engineering

This project aims to create a simulation in virtual reality that replicates an activity that older adults are familiar with and presents an objective for the user to complete. The simulation will monitor the user’s cognitive functions based on their performance. The functionality of the designed program includes, but is not limited to: continuous tracking of cognitive behavior, skipped steps, and completion times. The program will take in relevant data and provide results on the monitored tasks and give the user a conclusion for further action. The application of this simulation will not be used as a medical device or …

Multi-Ton Bin Transport Device, Cole Kramer, Ruth Stirrup, Fabian Ruiz, Daniel Ramirez

Mechanical Engineering

This project sought to solve a problem at the Water Resource Recovery Facility in San Luis Obispo with the transportation of multi-ton bins on-site. Their current solutions prove ineffective, as they damage their equipment and the concrete pad, as well as pose major safety risks to the operators moving these bins. The Facility requires the bin transport design to be low-cost, effective, and without risk of damage to the bins or surroundings, while maintaining the integrity of the bins. This project presents a conceptual design that is similar to a scissor lift, integrated into a trailer which will connect to …

How Modular Construction Techniques Can Be Beneficial To The Nuclear Construction Industry, Samuel Lawrence Maurer

Construction Management

Nuclear energy will soon be needed to supply sustainable and clean power to companies that work with Artificial Intelligence and Quantum Computing. Across the world, lots of large-scale nuclear power plants that have been recently constructed have had many issues, such as cost overruns, schedule delays, permitting issues, and more. The purpose of this project is to examine how modular construction, specifically in the form of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), can positively impact the nuclear construction industry and potentially reduce some of the common issues that these large-scale nuclear power plant projects typically face. The findings suggest that the use …

Greek Row At Cal Poly: Addressing Student Housing, Neighborhood Conflict, And Town-Gown Relations, Christopher Linn Green

Construction Management

This study evaluates whether centralized Greek housing near Cal Poly could serve as a long-term planning solution for reducing neighborhood conflict, improving student housing opportunities, and creating a more organized environment for fraternity and sorority life. The research was developed in response to ongoing concerns in San Luis Obispo involving student housing pressure, fraternity activity in residential neighborhoods, and code enforcement challenges. Two surveys were used to gather stakeholder perspectives. One survey of Cal Poly students and one survey of individuals who work in San Luis Obispo. Student responses showed strong support for a centralized Greek Row, with most respondents …

Economic Feasibility Of 3d-Printed Concrete Walls Vs. Traditional Framing Systems, David Hawk

Construction Management

The construction industry faces mounting pressure to adopt more efficient building technologies. 3D-printed concrete (3DCP) has emerged as a promising alternative to wood-frame wall systems, offering reduced labor costs, shorter schedules, and lower long-term maintenance expenses. This study evaluates the economic feasibility of 3DCP versus traditional framing across three project scales — single-family (2K SF), multifamily (20K SF), and large development (100K SF) — using mixed-methods combining quantitative cost data with qualitative industry interviews. Results indicate 3DCP becomes cost-competitive at approximately 20,000 SF of wall area, with a decisive advantage at 100K+ SF ($26–$34/SF vs. $29–$45/SF traditional). Equipment mobilization ($8–$18/SF) …

Improving The California Boulevard Railroad Underpass: A Feasibility Study Of Persistent Barriers And Practical Improvement Strategies, Jacee D. Carpenter

Construction Management

The California Boulevard railroad underpass in San Luis Obispo has served as an informal pedestrian route for Cal Poly students since pedestrian access across the adjacent railroad tracks was restricted in 2009. Despite its frequent use, the underpass presents challenges related to lighting, drainage, surface conditions, and seasonal flooding that affect safety and accessibility. Previous studies documented these concerns and proposed improvement concepts; however, no significant physical improvements have been implemented. This project evaluates the factors contributing to the lack of improvements and examines practical strategies for enhancing the underpass within existing regulatory, environmental, and jurisdictional constraints. Methods included a …

Capstone Review: Warn Winch Proximity Sensor, Leana Girton

University Honors Theses

This thesis reviews the mechanical engineering capstone project that designed a winch proximity sensor for WARN Industries. WARN is very interested in developing this product for market as a safety and ease-of-use accessory, and working with Portland State University was the first step in this process. A group of four mechanical engineering and four electrical engineering capstone students collaborated to research sensor types, test the selected methods, and design and build a prototype. The final design implements an inductive ring, a mechanical button, and bluetooth signaling. The project succeeded in prototyping a proximity sensor for WARN, who will have access …

Quantum And Conventional Informatics Studies Of Synthesis Energetics And Defect Formation In Nitride Crystal Epitaxy, Andrew Steven Messecar

Dissertations

Machine learning is a valuable approach for the processing and analysis of complex information. By estimating relationships from recorded data, machine learning methodologies can be effective strategies for pattern recognition, enabling investigations and technological applications based thereon. The potential for improved understanding of high-dimensional data has drawn interest towards machine learning from across the sciences, including the research and development of new and improved material systems. In the context of experimental materials research, much of the reported efforts to incorporate machine learning into conventional practice have been primarily focused on either the enhanced analysis of characterization experiment data or the …

Building Services Engineering May/June 2026

Building Services Engineering

No abstract provided.

Skip The Grid: Bringing Solar Energy To The Navajo Nation, Makaela L. Zavala

Construction Management

Skip the Grid is an interdisciplinary service project in which California Polytechnic State University (Cal Poly) students partner with Heart of America and SOLV Energy to install off-grid solar systems for families in the Navajo Nation and Hopi Reservation. The project aims to address energy inequity by providing reliable electricity for lighting, refrigeration, and essential daily needs. This paper focuses on the communications and logistics planning required to support a large-scale service project involving over twenty students and multiple partner organizations. The methodology included coordinating travel, organizing team assignments, managing documentation, and maintaining communication throughout the trip. The project resulted …

Skip The Grid: Providing Solar Energy To Navajo And Hopi Families, Derrick Huang

Construction Management

In Spring 2026, the Skip the Grid program sent its 5^th consecutive service project team to the Navajo Nation. Consisting of 4 faculty and 23 interdisciplinary students from various majors such as Construction Management, Mechanical Engineering, Environmental Management, and more, the California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo (Cal Poly) team partnered with non-profit Heart of America, SOLV Energy, and NextPower to install Two 200-watt PV panels, a Yeti 1500X battery, a refrigerator, and two LED lights to families in the Navajo and Hopi Nations in Northeastern Arizona. Within 3 installation days, the Skip the Grid team was able …

Thematic Analysis Of Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities Required For Hydrogen Fuel Cell Transit Workforce, Steven Dandurand

Construction Management

The adoption and implementation of hydrogen fuel cell electric buses (FCEBs) in public transit creates opportunities for reducing emissions and a greener future, but causes challenges related to workforce readiness and training. This research uses thematic analysis to analyze interviews with professionals to evaluate the current knowledge and skill levels of transit bus drivers, maintenance personnel, and infrastructure teams, with the goal of identifying knowledge gaps that may cause problems with the implementation of hydrogen buses on a larger scale. Data was collected through a review of transit agency resources, and interviews with drivers, technicians and agencies. The findings indicate …

Robotic Layout Systems In Construction: Evaluating Accuracy And Efficiency In Blueprint Marking, Saxon Moseman

Construction Management

Robotic layout systems represent a significant advancement in construction technology, automating the transfer of Building Information Modeling (BIM) coordinates onto construction surfaces to improve accuracy and efficiency. This study evaluates the implementation of robotic layout systems, specifically the Dusty Robotics FieldPrinter, and their effectiveness in improving accuracy and efficiency during construction blueprint marking. Through a review of existing literature, analysis of the Skanska and Sutter Health healthcare case study, and qualitative interviews with three construction professionals, the research examines impacts on productivity, labor requirements, trade coordination, BIM integration, and project quality. Findings consistently demonstrate that robotic layout systems reduce layout …

Designing And Building Benches For Slo City Farm, Julian Cervantes

Construction Management

The purpose of this project was to design and create multiple small benches for the City Farm SLO during the term of Spring 2026 quarter. This project was specifically intended to be an affordable, pragmatic, and durable project that would last a long time in order to serve the people that visit a comfortable place to sit and come together. In order to achieve the project delivery for these benches the pre-construction of the project started by visiting the city farm to inspect the existing benches and taking the measurements of them in order to shorten them for the use …

Cost–Benefit Analysis Of Undergrounding Power Lines For Wildfire Mitigation: Construction Management Implications Compared To Conventional Overhead Systems, Max T. Clement

Construction Management

Wildfires in California have increasingly been linked to failures in electrical infrastructure, particularly overhead power transmission, and distribution systems. As wildfire frequency and severity continue to escalate, utility providers, regulatory agencies, and construction professionals are evaluating undergrounding power lines as a long-term mitigation strategy. This research examines the construction management implications of undergrounding power lines compared to conventional overhead systems, focusing on cost, scheduling, constructability, risk allocation, and lifecycle performance. A mixed-methods approach is utilized, incorporating quantitative cost and lifecycle data alongside qualitative analysis of industry reports and case studies. The results indicate that although underground systems require significantly higher …

Gas Adsorption Behavior In Organic-Rich Carbonate Source Rocks: Insights Into Hydrogen Storage, Methane Recovery, And Co2 Sequestration In Oil Shales, Muhammad Usman, Muhammad Ali, Tawanda Matamba, Alireza Keshavarz, Stefan Iglauer, Hussein Hoteit, Volker Vahrenkamp

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Gas adsorption in unconventional petroleum source rocks, e.g. organic-rich mudrocks and shales, is influenced by significant heterogeneities in organic and inorganic composition, structure, and pore networks. An understanding of the interplay between these properties is essential for optimizing hydrocarbon extraction, CO2 sequestration, and hydrogen storage in such reservoirs. Herein, the factors controlling hydrogen, methane, and CO2 adsorption in unconventional organic-rich Jordan source rock samples are investigated, focusing on the roles of organic matter, mineral composition, and textural properties. The samples are characterized via multiple techniques, followed by adsorption experiments. The results reveal that H2 has the lowest adsorption capacity, being …

Sheep Pen Improvements At City Farm Slo, Diego Eliseo Romero

Construction Management

City Farm SLO is a non-profit educational farm that focuses on creating clean produce and educational farm work environments in San Luis Obispo, California. The farm can provide its community with learning programs for the youth, hands-on experience in farming practices, and livestock care. The work was set out for this project across two quarters where we improved the existing sheep pen so that the volunteers and livestock who use the pen can enjoy the area much more comfortably and safely. The overall project scope included several improvements which all required initial designs, coordination with the farm and its volunteers, …

Beyond Contract Law: Expanding Legal Education In Construction Management, Grace M. Hetland

Construction Management

The California Polytechnic State University Construction Management (CM) program is designed to prepare students for the managerial responsibilities of the construction industry. However, construction projects involve a broad range of legal considerations that extend beyond traditional contract administration. While the CM curriculum currently includes a course focused on construction contract law, there is limited exposure to other legal disciplines that frequently affect construction professionals throughout the project lifecycle. This research explores the potential value of expanding construction law education in the CM curriculum by implementing an additional topics course as an elective for students. To determine which legal subjects would …

An Exploratory Latent Segmentation Approach To Account For Temporally Shifting Parameters In Driver Injury-Severity Models, Tanmoy Bhowmik, Shahrior Pervaz, Fred Mannering, Naveen Eluru

Civil and Environmental Engineering Faculty Publications and Presentations

Temporally shifting parameters in crash severity modeling is a well-documented phenomenon, with growing evidence suggesting that the influence of explanatory variables changes over time due to shifts in driver behavior, vehicle technology, and roadway conditions. Many studies have examined this issue by comparing the temporal stability of adjacent-year data using a variety of modeling frameworks that have often assumed a homogenous effect of explanatory variables across the entire crash population. The current research effort departs from past work in two ways. First, it compares data separated by multiple years (instead of comparing adjacent years), and second, it tests the homogeneous …

Foundation For A Digital Beamforming System Using Software Defined Radio, Daniel Cruz Guerrero, Shiron Bendrihem, Benjamin Tucker

Electrical Engineering

This report demonstrates a basis for the foundation of a software-defined radio (SDR)-based digital beam forming system. Specifically, a discussion of time, frequency, and phase synchronization is had in the absence of costly hardware like an OctoClock. Furthermore, this report digs deep into the design process and device characterization of a 4-way Wilkinson Power Divider, which is a necessary hardware component for phase calibration. SDR synchronization and calibration are critical in any digital beamforming system.

Design And Characterization Of A Pulsed Electric Field Chamber For Microalgae Lysis, Connor Strutin

Electrical Engineering

Microalgae are a promising renewable source of biofuel due to their high lipid content and rapid growth rates; however, algae cells must be electroporated (lysed) to release these lipids. The system developed in this project applies short (40 μs–10 ms), high-intensity (up to 33 kV/cm) pulsed electric fields (PEF) across cell membranes to enable electroporation.

Our lab-scale PEF chamber generates uniform, high-intensity electric fields using parallel-plate electrodes with sub-millimeter spacing. The system is designed to efficiently lyse microalgae cells for lipid extraction and biofuel production.

Maximum Power Point Tracking For Photovoltaic Cells, Rodrigo Menchaca-Ramirez, Jesus Martinez, Steven Rodriguez

Electrical Engineering

Unlike an ideal DC Power Supply, a solar panel does not operate with linear I-V Characteristics. The voltage and current characteristics of a solar panel change based on irradiance, temperature, weather conditions, and load demand. Because of these factors, solar panels do not always operate at their Maximum Power Point, which can lead to significant power losses. Maximum Power Point Tracking is used to adjust the panel operating point so that more usable power can be delivered to the load.This project developed a Maximum Power Point Tracking system using an STM32 Nucleo-L4A6ZG microcontroller and an LT8705A DC-DC converter stage. The …

Extensive And Intensive Margin Labor Supply On Ride-Sourcing Platforms, Hao Sun, Hai Wang, Zhixi Wan

Research Collection School Of Computing and Information Systems

The rapid expansion of ride-sourcing platforms has enabled freelance drivers to flexibly determine both their participation and working hours. Understanding this flexible labor supply behavior is essential for managing platform capacity and evaluating the impacts of pricing and incentive policies on driver welfare. This study develops a labor supply model in which drivers optimally choose whether to participate (extensive margin) and how long to work (intensive margin) to maximize their utility from consumption and leisure. The model incorporates heterogeneity in drivers’ other income, idle time, and participation costs, allowing us to analytically characterize equilibrium labor supply decisions. The results show …