Victoria Sanchez

Class of 2026-2027

Loyola Marymount University
Mechanical Engineering

Capstone Project Abstract

Supersede (Not Wood Inc.) manufactures durable, waterproof composite structural panels from recycled post-consumer and post-industrial plastic feedstocks as a drop-in replacement for traditional plywood and OSB. To navigate the technical complexity and feedstock volatility of recycled polymer processing, Supersede engineered a proprietary internal factory operating system (OS) that integrates real-time material classification, recipe generation, and machine parameter adjustments under one roof.

This capstone project evaluates the commercial viability of licensing Supersede's factory operating system software as an external B2B platform or franchise framework for legacy polymer manufacturers. The student will conduct extensive primary market discovery across U.S. plastic compounding and extrusion operations to assess prospective buyer urgency around raw material cost volatility, analyze competitive switching friction and data integration boundaries, and evaluate potential go-to-market pathways. Through rigorous primary research, the project will deliver an evidence-backed market entry recommendation and commercialization strategy for the technology.

Why did you choose ESTEEM?

I chose to come to ESTEEM to push myself beyond the traditional engineering path and explore how I can turn ideas into solutions that create real value. My experiences in engineering have taught me to enjoy the process of solving problems while also thinking about how we can approach them differently and how what we create can affect others. When I first learned about ESTEEM, I was drawn to its mission to “fix things that matter” and the opportunity to use my technical skills to create an impact that goes beyond the solution itself. I wanted to be part of a program that would challenge me to think differently and show me how I can use my engineering background to create solutions that have a lasting impact.

What do you hope to do after ESTEEM?

After ESTEEM, I hope to pursue a career where I can combine my engineering background with innovation, creativity, and business to develop products and solutions that create meaningful impact. I am especially interested in product design, sustainability, and emerging technologies, while also exploring the roles that business, finance, and law play in bringing new ideas to life. I want to continue challenging myself through opportunities that allow me to learn, collaborate, and turn ideas into something tangible that can improve people’s lives. Long term, I hope to use the skills and perspective I gain from ESTEEM to lead innovative work and create solutions that creates positive influence.

What do you like to do in your free time?

In my free time I enjoy spending time with family and friends, trying new restaurants and coffee shops, reading at cafés, and going on walks in nature. I also enjoy DJing, upcycling clothing, repurposing furniture, and finding new ways to be creative. I’m always looking for a new podcast to listen to or something new to try!