New Mexico 2025

PROJECT TITLE
WiiTrack: Your Key to Tracking and Recovering Stolen Vehicles

PROJECT GOAL: Our prototype supports U.N. Goal 16.4 by enabling the recovery of stolen vehicles, which affects communities both locally and globally, especially in underserved areas. We were inspired to develop WiiTrack after observing frequent reports of vehicle theft in low-income communities such as Las Cruces, NM. WiiTrack is designed to reduce vehicle theft, a significant global issue that results in approximately 750,000 vehicles being stolen each year worldwide due to inadequate security technology.

Our proposed solution is designed to address our users’ needs by combining advanced detection, deterrence, and recovery capabilities, addressing the inequity that low-income individuals face in keeping their vehicles safe.

Upon detecting a break-in, WiiTrack triggers a loud alarm to deter thieves while instantly notifying the owner through a mobile app. Simultaneously, it activates GPS tracking, providing real-time location data to capture evidence of the theft. For enhanced recovery, the system offers the option to notify local law enforcement, sharing live GPS coordinates to expedite vehicle retrieval.

Compared to other systems, WiiTrack is innovative because it accurately detects vehicle theft, provides instant notifications, and offers real-time tracking. A pre-installed car alarm will only attract attention from other people, and an AirTag will only alert the user to the vehicle’s location. This may not be as effective as WiiTrack, which combines features and creates an innovative solution to an important problem.

PROJECT TITLE
Fire Bandit is an early detection system sending instant alerts to fire personnel helping to prevent the spread of wildfires.

PROJECT GOAL: The Hermit’s Peak Calf Canyon Fire was the largest wildfire in New Mexico. Wildfires affect agriculture, farming, wildlife, and us. To prevent future wildfires, we need an early detection system. Our solution helps locate fires quickly and alert first responders immediately, reducing damage and protecting resources. Our project connects to UN Sustainable Development Goal #13: Climate Action by helping protect water, land, and communities from wildfire damage.

Our solution, Fire Bandit, is designed to address our user’s needs by instantly alerting firefighters and forest rangers of the first sign of smoke. Right now, fire detection relies on people spotting flames or delayed satellite data, which means fires can grow out of control before help arrives. Fire Bandit gives real-time alerts, so crews can respond faster and keep fires from spreading. To ensure we put our detectors in the best locations, we’re partnering with SciVision, a fire simulation company, to study fire patterns and figure out exactly where they’re needed most. Wildfires have devastated our community, burning homes, killing livestock, and contaminating water. By catching fires sooner, Fire Bandit helps prevent destruction, protect natural resources, and to keep families safe. Faster response times mean less damage, fewer evacuations, and a better chance of stopping fires before they get out of control.