Triumphs in Korea and Receives the 2026 “Helia Bravo Hollis” Medal

Reporter: Enrique Soto / Photos: Courtesy

Fernando Guzmán, an ESIME Zacatenco graduate and aerospace specialist, was recognized by the Congress of Mexico City.

From East Asia—where technology drives economic and social development, where the martial art of Taekwondo originated, and where the world-renowned group BTS was born—a Polytechnic graduate proudly shouts “¡Huélum!” after receiving the 2026 Helia Bravo Hollis Medal for Scientific Merit from the III Legislature of the Congress of Mexico City on April 21.

For Fernando Efraín Guzmán Amaya, an Electronics and Communications Engineer and graduate of the Higher School of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering (ESIME), Zacatenco Unit, life has rewarded his efforts to bring the Polytechnic spirit to a country committed to aerospace development and widely recognized as one of the world’s most technologically advanced nations.

Fernando Guzmán currently serves as President of the South Korea Chapter of the Global MX Network, Latin America Marketing and Sales Manager for the South Korean aerospace company SOLETOP, and has promoted Mexico–South Korea cooperation since 2018 by fostering ties among the Instituto Politécnico Nacional (IPN), the Mexican Space Agency, the Government of Mexico, and the Korea Aerospace Research Institute (KARI).

This Mexico–Korea partnership has included opportunities for Mexican researchers to pursue aerospace specialization programs in South Korea, the promotion of exchanges between Mexican and Korean leaders in the sector, and collaboration between the IPN’s Aerospace Development Center (CDA) and KARI. From this perspective, the distinguished Polytechnic alumnus shared his reflections with Gaceta Politécnica on the importance of the aerospace sector for both nations.

What does receiving the “Helia Bravo Hollis” Medal for Scientific Merit from the Congress of Mexico City mean to you?

It represents a profound honor and, at the same time, a great responsibility. It is a recognition that validates years of work focused on connecting science with real-world applications that generate social impact. It also symbolizes the possibility of demonstrating that Mexico can drive innovation with global reach, particularly in strategic sectors such as aerospace. Beyond the personal distinction, I see it as a commitment to continue contributing to the scientific and technological development of the country.

What do you consider your greatest professional achievements within the framework of Mexico–South Korea relations?

One of my most significant accomplishments has been actively contributing to the creation of technological, academic, and cultural bridges between Mexico and South Korea. Over more than a decade, I have participated in initiatives that have facilitated collaboration among institutions, companies, and talented professionals from both countries. I would particularly highlight the opportunities created for Mexican students and professionals within South Korea’s technological ecosystem, as well as the promotion of projects related to satellite technology and knowledge transfer. These efforts have helped position Mexico as a strategic partner in Asia in the field of innovation.

Why is it important for Mexico to become more involved in aerospace technology development?

The aerospace industry is a strategic driver of economic growth, technological advancement, and national security for any country. For Mexico, it represents a key opportunity to move up the global value chain, strengthen scientific capabilities, and generate solutions in critical areas such as telecommunications, environmental monitoring, and risk management. Based on my international experience, Mexico’s integration into this sector is not only important—it is urgent. We have highly competitive talent. The next step is to consolidate ecosystems capable of transforming that talent into applied innovation and industrial development.

As a distinguished Polytechnic graduate and advocate of this initiative, what is the value of IPN students visiting KARI?

International exposure can be a turning point in a student’s education. Visiting institutions such as KARI allows Polytechnic students to understand how some of the world’s most advanced aerospace ecosystems operate, gain firsthand knowledge of cutting-edge technologies, and, most importantly, broaden their professional horizons. Experiences like these not only provide technical knowledge but also inspire ambition and challenge assumptions about what is possible to achieve.

What is your opinion of the Mexican government’s project to place nationally developed satellites into orbit, with IPN participation, to study climate change and strengthen telecommunications capabilities?

It is a highly strategic and relevant initiative. Developing domestic satellite technology not only strengthens the country’s technological sovereignty but also enables the creation of solutions to challenges such as climate change, connectivity, and territorial management. IPN’s participation is essential because it connects academic training with high-impact projects. Efforts like these pave the way toward a more competitive Mexico in science and technology.

What have been the main outcomes of the memorandum of understanding signed in 2022 between KARI and IPN during the visit of then-Foreign Minister Marcelo Ebrard Casaubón and IPN Director General Arturo Reyes Sandoval?

The memorandum established a solid foundation for bilateral cooperation in strategic areas such as research, technological development, and the training of specialized talent. Beyond the document itself, the most important achievement has been the opening of collaborative channels that facilitate knowledge exchange, academic mobility, and the development of joint projects.

This agreement represents a decisive step toward strengthening the relationship between Mexico and South Korea in the aerospace sector. I am confident that, in the near future, we will see Polytechnic students and graduates actively participating in satellite development projects alongside specialists from the Korea Aerospace Research Institute (KARI).

With graduates carrying the IPN flag around the world, does the Polytechnic spirit resonate in South Korea?

Absolutely. The Polytechnic spirit transcends borders. The Huélum is more than a rallying cry—it embodies identity, discipline, and pride. It reflects an education that motivates us to excel and open new paths wherever we go. From South Korea, that spirit remains present in every project, every collaboration, and every achievement.