The Team

Who We Are

Sam Kinstlinger

Sam is the leader of Team RiDE and the Cognitive subteam. He is currently a Computer Engineering major at the University of Maryland, College Park (UMD), with a strong interest in computer vision, reinforcement learning, algorithms, and autonomous systems. For this project, Sam is excited to work on developing cutting-edge multi-robot teamwork algorithms while also enhancing his leadership and communication skills. After graduation, he plans to pursue a career focused on developing algorithms for robots and autonomous systems.

Sameer Chawla

Sameer is a computer science major with a concentration in machine learning. His passion for robotics began with his involvement in his high school’s FRC team, and he has continued to explore the intersection of machine learning and robotics ever since. On a more personal note, Sameer enjoys playing table tennis, chess, and video games. He is excited to contribute to revolutionizing the field of multi-agent robotics with Team RiDE.

Mia Mikowski

Mia Mikowski is an Aerospace engineering major from Rockville, MD. She is a member of the Mechanical Sub-team and serves as the grant Liaison for team RiDE. She’s excited to build and test all sorts of mobile robots and hopes to work in aeronautical design after college.

Yahya Mouamil

Yahya is pursuing a degree in electrical and mechanical engineering, with a strong passion for robotics. His goal is to one day build multi-task robots capable of conducting search and rescue missions. On a personal level, Yahya envisions having his own collection of robots to help optimize and enhance his daily life. He also enjoys taking walks in his free time.

Andrew Xu

Andrew Xu is currently a junior at the University of Maryland, College Park, pursuing a double major in Computer Science and Economics with a minor in Robotics and Autonomous Systems. He is on track to graduate in May 2026. Andrew is deeply interested in applying data science and machine learning principles to develop impactful software. Recently, he has completed several collaborative software projects and internships utilizing advanced technologies, including AWS Lambda and Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs), for applications such as fraud detection. Andrew is actively seeking AI/ML or data science internships for the upcoming summer.

Daniel Zheng

Daniel is studying Mechanical Engineering with a passion for designing and prototyping in the field of mechatronics. His goal is to gain experience and knowledge in building and manufacturing, furthering his expertise in this dynamic field.

Brian Fugh

Brian is studying Computer Science with interests in machine learning and math. In his free time, he enjoys playing tennis. As a member of the computer vision subteam in Team RiDE, Brian is excited to apply the algorithms he's learning to real-world robotics. After graduation, he hopes to either enter the workforce or pursue a master's degree.

Julie Zalalutdinov

Julie is studying Mechanical Engineering and Dance. As a member of the mechanical subteam, she has a passion for learning how robots operate in diverse and unexpected environments. Julie's goal is to gain a deep understanding of the design process involved in building a well-functioning robot from the ground up.

Rithvik Bonagiri

Rithvik is studying Computer Science with a strong interest in the applications of computer vision and machine learning. He aspires to work in software development or cybersecurity in the future.

Nikolos Migineishvili

Nikolos is a sophomore studying Applied Math and Computer Science with a minor in Economics. He is a member of the navigation sub-team and is looking forward to getting hands on experience and applying quantitative methods and algorithms in attempts to solve an important real world problem. After Graduation Nikolos hopes to either work in the industry or pursue a PhD.

Dagm Henok

Dagm is a computer science major and likes to play soccer. He looks forward to being part of the computer vision sub team of Team RiDe.