Meet University of Texas at San Antonio's JAYDA JENKINS STEAM Sports Foundation Scholarship Recipient

Personal Profile

Name: Jayda Jenkins

College: The University of Texas at San Antonio

Hometown: Round Rock, Tx

Major: Mechanical Engineering

Aspirational Car: A first-gen Honda NSX, bagged.¹

10-Year Prediction in auto/motorsports: Electric and hybrid powertrains will be front and center in many [race] series, pushing the limits of innovation and sustainability.²

What You May Not Know About Me: Growing up as the only girl among four brothers, you might think I’d be the one least interested in cars—but somehow, I’m the one with the automotive itch. Motorsport runs deep in my family; my great-grandma, Connie Martin, was recently inducted into the National Motorsports Association Hall of Fame, and her legacy fuels my passion every day. While many in my family have shared the love for racing, I’m proud to be carrying that fire forward in my own way, blazing a trail as the girl who found her lane in a family full of boys. And just to keep the tradition alive, I’m training my youngest brother, Jodie, to be my apprentice. He’s only seven, so there’s a long road ahead... but I’m determined to get him race ready. (Right now, I’m working to get him to retire his Pokémon cards and fully commit to a Hot Wheels collection. Negotiations are ongoing.)

How did you get so interested in the auto/motorsports industry? My passion for the automotive and motorsports industry all started with my grandpa, Harold Martin. As the founder of Martin Motorsports and a groundbreaking engineer with over 10 world patents, he has made incredible contributions—like designing the first Electronic Fuel Injection engine to win in Pro Modified drag racing. Growing up, I was fascinated by his work and legacy. I used to beg him to come speak at my elementary school assemblies, sharing his story and inspiring my classmates. I even brought signed mini posters of him to summer camp, proud to show everyone that my grandpa is the real deal. His dedication to innovation and excellence planted the first seeds of my own passion. But it was really when I got behind the wheel at 16 and experienced driving firsthand that everything clicked for me. From that moment on, I naturally found my way into cars and racing—it became more than just an interest; it became a part of who I am. Since then, I’ve been driven to learn everything I can about automotive technology and motorsports culture, inspired by the legacy of my family and eager to forge my own path. That early exposure combined with hands-on experience continues to fuel my excitement and commitment to this industry every day.

What automotive aspect interests you the most? For me, one of the most fascinating aspects of the automotive world is the incredible variety of vehicles — from purpose-built race cars and timeless classics to JDM legends, high-performance supercars, and experimental prototypes. Each has its own personality, and you can feel it the moment the engine fires up. I’ve always been drawn to the unique sound each machine makes — whether it’s the deep, steady rumble of a stock V8, the sharp crackle of a modified exhaust, the spine-tingling whine of a supercharger hard at work, or my personal favorite: the flutter of a turbo spool. These sounds never fail to make my head turn. It’s like each car speaks its own language, and over time, I’ve learned to recognize the distinct dialects of different machines. What truly fascinates me is how every type of vehicle tells a story through both its sound and design. Race cars, for example, are all about pushing the limits of speed and precision, with engines tuned for maximum power and agility. Classic cars carry history and craftsmanship in every rev—like the hand-built V8s of American muscle legends. Then there are JDM imports, like the NSX, which blend innovation and artistry with their lightweight designs and finely tuned engines. Each vehicle type represents a unique chapter in automotive culture and engineering, and that’s what truly draws me in.

How do you approach the challenges of being a minority engineering student in what has been traditionally a non-minority career path? My journey into automotive engineering has always felt deeply guided and intentional. Looking back on every step that’s brought me closer to this goal, I truly believe it has been God’s will shaping my path. When challenges arise—especially navigating the engineering world as both a minority and a woman—I’ve learned to find strength in being comfortable with discomfort. Embracing those moments of uncertainty and pushing through them has been a way for me to grow not only as an engineer but as a person. Throughout this journey, my faith has been a calm and constant source of encouragement, quietly reminding me that I’m on the right path, even when the way forward isn’t always easy.

What would you like your first job/career opportunity to be? My ideal first job would immerse me directly in the heart of motorsports or automotive engineering, where I can combine hands-on technical work with the thrill of high-performance environments. Whether as a powertrain engineer or trackside support engineer, I want to contribute to optimizing vehicle performance while learning from seasoned professionals. Being part of a team that pushes the limits of innovation and speed, supporting drivers and engineers in real time, is where I see myself growing both technically and personally. This opportunity would be more than just a starting point—it would lay the foundation for building my skills and experience with the ultimate goal of becoming an engineer on an F1 team, working directly on the vehicles of the world’s best racers. I’m eager to contribute to race success while continuing to learn and develop as an engineer every day, fully embracing the passion and precision that defines the sport.

Where do you see yourself 10 years from now? Ten years from now, I see myself deeply rooted in both family and faith, carrying forward a legacy that blends tradition with passion. Cars and motorsports hold a special place in my life—they connect me to my family’s legacy and the values they’ve passed down through generations. I want to build a career that honors that history while embracing innovation and growth. Beyond the workbench or the track, I hope to nurture the bonds that keep us grounded—the people, the stories, and the faith that guide me every day. I want to create space not just for personal success, but for uplifting those around me and inspiring the next generation to chase their dreams with courage and heart. In everything I do, I want to remain true to who I am, blending technical skill with humility, passion, and purpose.

Continued from above ...

¹I’ve always had a soft spot for JDMs, and pop-up headlights scratch a very specific itch for me. There’s something about the NSX’s build that’s always drawn me in—the clean, low-slung exterior, the mid-engine layout, and the fact that Ayrton Senna himself helped fine-tune its handling. Even just looking at it, you can tell it’s a special car. It’s been on my mind for years, and one day I’d love to have one in my garage... I just need to learn how to drive manual first.

² In 10 years, I see motorsports and automotive engineering evolving into a fascinating blend of cutting-edge technology and deep-rooted tradition. Sure, electric and hybrid powertrains will be front and center in many series, pushing the limits of innovation and sustainability. But I believe there will also be a strong movement to preserve and celebrate the roar and character of naturally aspirated engines — the sound and feel that make racing so visceral and exciting. Advanced analytics, AI, and simulation tools will become everyday essentials for engineers and crews, transforming how teams strategize and optimize performance. I’m excited for a future where we respect and protect the legacy of classic engines, even as we push boundaries with new tech — keeping the soul of motorsports alive for fans and engineers alike.

About STEAM Sports Foundation

Recognizing workforce and economic development as integral parts of corporate growth, STEAM Sports Foundation collaborates with companies, educators, and sports groups to develop initiatives around science, technology, engineering, arts, and math that impact the world of sports & entertainment. 



The foundation’s primary focus is on scholarships and career summits to help create tomorrow’s vibrant workforce. Its scholarship program in automotive/motorsports engineering for under-represented communities provides opportunities to a transportation industry that is ever-changing via innovation and technology with individuals who traditionally did not consider these career paths simply because they saw few who looked like them in the industry.

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