Cool Kid Diego Ruiz uses robotics and engineering to combat simulated fires

HAWTHORNE, Calif. (KABC) -- This week's ABC7 Cool Kid is Diego Ruiz, who uses his interests in engineering to build machines that help take out simulated fires.

The Hawthorne High School senior was challenged by the aerospace defense company Northrop Grumman to create technology that would avert this natural disaster.

Ruiz, an immigrant from Central America, has gained attention for his innovative robot with his team.

"Diego was really the brain behind the whole operation. He comes with big ideas and challenges us," Lucas Pacheco, Hawthorne high school manufacturing and engineering coordinator, said.

Ruiz said his interests in mechanics comes from humans being "the only species on Earth that designs its own tools to make its life easier."

The aspiring aerospace engineer says he would like to continue these interests in his future.

"I would really like to work at an aerospace company - like maybe in El Segundo. I would really love to deal with all the rocketry that goes on in Hawthorne," Ruiz said.

Know an amazing young person making a difference in the community? Learn how to nominate them to be an ABC7 Cool Kid at abc7.com/coolkids.