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The University awards ten silver medals to professors and employees campus San Sebastián campus

The University of Navarra recognizes Iker Aguinaga, Jon Alkorta, Íñigo Andueza, Mikel Arizmendi, Coro Aycart, Diego Borro, Javier Díaz, Isabel Gastaminza, Sonia Romero, and Igone Vélez for their 25 years of service.

29 | 01 | 2026

On Wednesday, January 28, the feast day of St. Thomas Aquinas, the University of Navarra awarded its Silver Medals to ten professionals from Tecnun and Ceit have completed 25 years of service. The ceremony was held at the University of Navarra Museum, and a total of 122 employees received this recognition. With them, there are now 3,146 professionals who have been honored with the Silver Medal since it was established in 1986.

These 122 "everyday champions" who began their careers in 2000 are celebrating 25 years of dedication, hard work, and service. From among all these stories, we wanted to highlight those who work on the campus through interviews in the series "Hablando en Plata" (Speaking in Silver):

Iker Aguinaga / Materials and Manufacturing Division

 
1) If you had to choose one memory, which one would you mention?

In reality, it is not just one individual memory, but several. These are the thesis defenses thesis doctoral students I have supervised or collaborated with on research projects. In all cases, the defense is the end of a long, complex process marked by many ups and downs. The defense marks a very emotional ending, mixing joy and nerves, and ending in celebration.

2) Which people have influenced you? 

There are many people who have left a deep impression on me, from professors during my time as a student at Tecnun, to colleagues at the office, subject, doctoral subject, and students working on project degree program project .

But if I had to highlight one name, I would like to remember Javier García de Jalón, who passed away in January this year. First, as a professor of Computer Science I at Tecnun, he got me hooked on the world of computing. Later, at Ceit, he helped me take my first steps in the world of simulation and 3D graphics. Without those initial steps, I would not be where I am today.

3) What will you take away from Ceit? 

I take away several things that are fundamental to me. On the one hand, the opportunity to work every day on things I enjoy and to face new challenges in cutting-edge technologies. On the other hand, the opportunity to help train new researchers.

4) How do you see Ceit the next 25 years?

We are at a point in time when it is very difficult to make long-term predictions. We are experiencing several social and technological revolutions simultaneously that will profoundly affect society and Ceit part of it. Technologies such as artificial intelligence and robotics, and challenges such as climate change, resource scarcity, and population aging, will radically change the way we work and learn. I hope that in 25 years' time, Ceit conduct research and train researchers capable of harnessing the possibilities of emerging new technologies to address current and future challenges, thereby helping humanity move towards a more balanced, sustainable world with less suffering.

Jon Alkorta / Materials and Manufacturing Division

 
 

1) If you had to choose one memory, which one would you mention? 

If I had to choose one, I would choose the day I defended my thesis April 2006 thesis I have a very special memory of it because my family and some friends came, and I remember the nerves and the celebration afterwards. It was a very good moment.

2) Which people have influenced you? 

Everyone who guided me during my early years. Of course, the people who have had the greatest impact on me are Javier Gil Sevillano, who was my thesis director thesis and José Manuel Martínez Esnaola, whom I appreciate even more on staff level staff a professional staff (if that's possible). They have always encouraged me to explore new ideas, gave me the opportunity to develop professionally at Ceit have trusted me all these years. Of course, over the course of these 25 years, I have had the pleasure of meeting many people, but staff would staff first colleagues when I arrived (Luis, Pello, Ainhara, Eva, Judith, Iñigo, and Rocío), with whom I went out for pintxos every Thursday and who welcomed me from the very beginning.

3) What will you take away from Ceit? 

I have spent more years at Ceit outside of it; I take many things with me. Ceit given me the tools and instructions develop my degree program . Thanks to this, I have had the opportunity to discover places and meet people that I would not have otherwise encountered. Among them, my own wife, who was also a researcher at Ceit.

4) How do you see Ceit the next 25 years?

In recent years, Ceit evolved towards research professional, competitive, and global research . In the coming years, Ceit goal Ceit be to consolidate our position as a benchmark in research, leading increasingly ambitious projects that are more international in nature and capable of attracting both local and international talent. In 25 years, I see Ceit a more competitive and globally connected center that preserves its founding values and its commitment to serving our society.

Íñigo Andueza / Materials and Manufacturing Division

 
 
1) If you had to choose one memory, which one would you mention?

After 25 years working here, I still remember my first day at Ceit very clearly and fondly. I have always been struck by how quickly my colleagues at the time made me feel part of the team, integrating me and making me feel like one of them from the very beginning.

2) Which people have influenced you? 

At the staff level, there are many people who have influenced me and helped me bring out the best in myself. In the professional sphere, I am especially grateful to Paco Castro and the group formed at that time, along with Iñigo Iturriza, Jon Etxeberria, and Txema Sánchez, among others. On the other hand, my parents and my brother always instilled in me the value of work the importance of facing challenges without fear, and it was Paco who knew how to help me transfer and reinforce those lessons within the professional environment.

3) What will you take away from Ceit? 

The good fortune of being able to enjoy my work come in every day with enthusiasm. All of this has been possible thanks to the people I have shared these years with and, of course, the opportunities that Ceit offers Ceit grow professionally, learning new things every day.

4) How do you see Ceit the next 25 years?

I hope that Ceit along the same lines of work, contributing its knowledge the talent of its people in the most cutting-edge areas of research. I am confident that it will maintain its ability to face the new challenges posed by science with enthusiasm and commitment.

Mikel Arizmendi / department Mechanical and Materials Engineering

 
 
1) If we asked you about these 25 years, what memories come to mind?

I have many memories from these 25 years: my doctorate studies, my thesis defense thesis my first days of class If I had to choose one, I would pick the day of my thesis defense thesis the preparation, the nerves, the presentation, the questions... After a long period as scholarship recipient, it seemed like the end of an era, although you soon discover that, in reality, it opens up a path full of new opportunities.

2) Which people have influenced you? 

Many people have influenced me over the years: from professors during my time as a student at Tecnun to technicians, doctoral students, and professors in department. Among them, I would like to highlight Justino Fernández, who offered me the opportunity to write my thesis and to whom I am deeply grateful for everything he has taught me and passed on to me, both professionally and staff. I also particularly value everything I have experienced and shared on a daily basis with my colleagues in department the years.

3) What would you highlight about the School?

I would highlight the closeness, the atmosphere of respect and camaraderie, and the way in which everyone at the School works with enthusiasm and attention to detail.

4) How do you see Tecnun in 25 years? 

It's a difficult question, because we are experiencing changes that will continue in the coming years; even so, I see the School as it is now, maintaining its essence intact, albeit transformed by new facilities and technologies.

Coro Aycart / Personnel Management Service

 
 
1) If we asked you about these 25 years, what memories come to mind?

My earliest memories are of ISSA. It was an exciting time in a historic building in the city, full of charm. I thoroughly enjoyed that period in "the mansion." I have a special memory of the 50th anniversary celebration at the Victoria Eugenia Theater, with more than 800 former students excitedly listening to the recognition of so many companies in Gipuzkoa for the excellent training . Fourteen years later, I arrived at Tecnun and from the very first moment I was struck by the importance given to training , far beyond the subjects taught. I was amazed by the number of students who promoted activities such as the discussion club, theater, choir, music, sports... I met students with real talent, yet who were also very humble. It was exciting, for example, to organize the Tecnun tamborrada (drum festival).

2) Which people have influenced you? 

When I started university, I was already influenced by the professors I had in my degree program, who impressed me with their wisdom and, above all, their generosity toward students and their passion for teaching. I would highlight Carlos Soria and Paco Gómez Antón. At Tecnun, we also have geniuses of that caliber with whom I have been fortunate enough to work. And Office of the Executive Council knows Office of the Executive Council , which is why it keeps an eye on them.

3) What will you take away from the School? 

The School never stops. A new academic year is beginning, and we are already thinking about new projects for the following ones. All initiatives are welcome and valued. No one and nothing is superfluous; we can all contribute to making this dream come true. Each of us, from our own position, from our daily work, is teaching in an implicit way. For more than 60 years, the School has been helping to train engineering professionals with a broad outlook, with the ability to see the significance of what they do, with the desire to be good professionals, but above all, good people.

4) How do you see the University of Navarra's campus Sebastián campus in 25 years?

I am confident that in 25 years' time, Tecnun and Ceit to have professionals who understand their work a service and are committed to the mission statement . Thiseducational project educational people who, in addition to "knowledge" and "know-how," contribute their "being." We need people who embody the essential qualities of a good professional in their lives, such as honesty, generosity (to put aside self-interest), and curiosity (to ask questions and understand work a means of transforming the environment). In 25 years' time, the curriculum will surely have changed a lot—we are very creative in this regard—and we will have adapted to new technologies. Perhaps the facilities will also have been renovated, we hope so. But I hope that fundamentally we will continue as we have done until now, pursuing the same dream.

Diego Borro / department Mechanical Engineering

 
 
1) If you had to choose one memory, which one would you mention?

These 25 years at Ceit been incredible. It just so happens that they coincide with the end of a cycle that I consider wonderful and that began with my thesis . On January 1, I began a new stage in what I have always considered my home, Tecnun. As for memories, rather than a specific moment, I am left with the collective satisfaction that comes from achieving a goal . For me, a fond memory is that moment of camaraderie with the team when, after a lot of effort, the article, thesis project, etc. comes to fruition. Another good example is when a visit comes visit the demonstration in the laboratory really laboratory . It is a great joy and satisfaction. These achievements, which require so much time, effort, and love, have a special flavor when shared with the team. In fact, we have our own little cherished tradition in the group, almost always linked to topic ... Of course, there are also moments of disappointment along the way, but those mistakes are actually valuable lessons that help us improve and keep trying.

2) Which people have influenced you? 

The 25-year journey is, above all, a journey of people. I owe my professional starting point to my family and, in particular, to my parents, whose unconditional encouragement was the essential push I needed to dare to write my thesis . Without that initial support, this degree program would not have begun. Once I took the leap, my thesis advisors thesis Luis Matey and Alejandro García-Alonso, were crucial guides. Not only did they place absolute trust in my abilities, but they also opened the doors to this exciting world of synergy between research teaching. And throughout the journey, my wife, my daughters, and my travel and work companions have been my daily foundation, my source partnership the driving force that has allowed me to grow, both staff professionally.

3) What will you take away from Ceit? 

If I had to sum it up in one sentence, and even though it sounds cliché, I would say that I am left with the deep conviction that I have the 'best work the world'. Ceit Tecnun have given me a dual privilege: the opportunity to carry out research and, at the same time, experience teaching . This combination is the core topic: contact with young, brilliant people with a bright future, to whom you can transmit not only technical knowledge, but also your own passion for research, science, and engineering. In addition, what I really treasure is the incredible work environment. I am immensely fortunate to have forged great friendships that have transcended the workplace.

4) How do you see Ceit the next 25 years?

I believe that in recent years, Ceit undergone a very clear and positive evolution. We have become a center that is much more attentive to the industrial needs of the environment, and we have been able to transform knowledge into applied solutions and technologies. In the next 25 years, I hope we can maintain this momentum. I envision Ceit becoming Ceit more focused on partnership and partnerships with other institutions, as well as on multidisciplinarity. The complexity of future challenges requires teams that combine knowledge, and it is precisely in this field that Ceit unparalleled growth potential. We will continue to be pioneers in the adaptation of new technologies.

Javier Díaz / department Electrical and Electronic Engineering

 
 
1) If we asked you about these 25 years, what memories come to mind?

I remember my first days at Tecnun perfectly: the mixture of nerves and excitement when I first entered an environment that I sensed would be demanding, but very welcoming. I was impressed by the ease with which professors and students interacted, the sense of community, and the atmosphere of work . That first impression, of a school that was small in size but big in ambition and humanity, has remained with me all these years.

2) Which people have influenced you? 

Throughout my career at Tecnun, I have been fortunate to meet people who have left their mark on my understanding of teaching research. Jordi Viñolas, for his strategic vision; Guillermo Bistué, for his very human way of transmitting knowledge; Paco Castro, a benchmark in professionalism and approachability. And, above all, Javier García de Jalón, whose influence has been decisive. His way of combining technical depth with enormous generosity staff my early years at the School. It was a real shame that they did not continue at Tecnun for longer, because their human and academic impact was extraordinary.

3) What will you take away from the School? 

Above all, I would highlight the culture of closeness and support that has defined Tecnun since its inception. It is a school where student are student a issue, but individuals with names and surnames, with concerns and talents to develop. I would also emphasize the balance between the technical and the human, the ability to work on real projects from very early on, and the constant commitment to innovation without losing the essence of a university school with its own identity.

4) How do you see Tecnun in the next 25 years?

In 25 years, I imagine Tecnun transformed by the influence of the internet, artificial intelligence, and the evolution (or even disappearance) of some Degrees such as Telecommunications. I envision a school where the university experience carries more weight than the academic experience. It will be a more global, more interdisciplinary, more flexible Tecnun... but I hope it will continue to maintain what has always made it special: training people of integrity as well as competent engineers.

Isabel Gastaminza / Space Management Office

 
 
1) If we asked you about these 25 years, what memories come to mind?

I started in 2000 at ISSA, where I worked for 14 years. We were like a family, it was a very pleasant place, with lots of students, teachers, etc. I fondly remember the gatherings we had in the tower, whether it was for birthdays or other celebrations. We even organized Christmas dinners there with all our colleagues. That time at ISSA had a big impact on me. When the Degree moved Degree Pamplona, that's when I came to Tecnun. It's hard to believe, but I've been at Tecnun for 11 years now. I didn't really know what to expect and I thought, "What am I doing here, surrounded by engineers?" (laughs). I have memories of every reception administrative officeI remember having coffee with my colleagues and the graduations, preparing the ceremony at the sports center, with all the suits and caps. When I moved to Miramon, everything was calmer; it's a very friendly atmosphere. We all know each other.

2) Which people have influenced you? 

I have fond memories of retired professors, students who have gone on to do their Master's Degree, many doctoral students... Professors you see every day and always end up talking to about something. There are very special people who teach you something new every day. It's a job where you learn a lot from people. I am struck by how quickly they call you by your name. I thank God for the colleagues I have worked with and for all they have helped me. People from different Departments, both at Tecnun and Ceit, and from department , which was my first building and where there was a group close-knit group . At that time, the head of department died department and it was a very hard blow for everyone. The doctoral students spend hours here, and I talk to them when they come in or leave; you grow fond of them, and they have even brought me products from their countries on occasion. The issue foreigners is increasing, and you have to communicate with them in English, Chinese, Pakistani, Iranian, Indian... So we all speak as best we can and have a great time. They learn Spanish easily and I practice my English, which is very useful. I have also been influenced by many people from Ceit have come and gone over the years: interns, doctoral students, and workers. They all ask questions and say hello when they come in and go out, or come to get materials; there is always time to talk. They also come to say goodbye when they leave because they have found another workThey tell me, with sadness, that they are leaving their colleagues and that it is hard for them to leave. I also think of the cleaning ladies, who leave everything sparkling clean and are also charming: always attentive to others, asking how you are and doing all the favors they can, without making a big deal out of it. The IT guys, whom we drive crazy and who have incredible patience. And the maintenance staff, who do everything; you only have to look at the number of specialties they cover. And finally, the best of the best: my bosses and my team of unconditional colleagues. We count on each other for everything, we have a good time and we work as a team. I am lucky to have these colleagues. That really makes a lifelong impression.

3) What would you highlight about the School? 

Despite the number of people working at Tecnun, there is a special, family-like atmosphere. I love the attention , the respect and affection that exists among the staff students, professors, staff people at Ceit. You grow fond of them and feel sad when they leave. I think I am very lucky to be in the position I am in. I am growing to like the attention people more and more, everything you learn and also everything you can give.

4) How do you see Tecnun in 25 years?

At the rate we are going, in 25 years they will have to build two or three more buildings. It is incredible how Tecnun is growing, the prestige it has, and the number of different Degrees it offers. I believe that, in addition to training engineers, we all have a duty to educate the people who pass through Tecnun and who can change the world.

Sonia Romero / IT Services

 
 
1) If we asked you about these 25 years, what memories come to mind?

I clearly remember my first days at the office where work , alongside my colleagues: after having been a student at the School for six years, I was particularly struck by how staff students constantly came into or called the office looking for financial aid the "IT guys," and how they always found a friendly and available response. Looking back, report changes come to report , some of them difficult, but there is something that remains intrinsic to the team: the desire to do things well, the commitment to work the vocation to serve the entire university community.

2) Which people have influenced you? 

If I had to name some exceptional, visionary, generous, and noble minds, I would have to mention Luis Echarri, thanks to whom I began my career in the Service; Manuel Jiménez Conde, with his report and tireless energy; and Juan Flaquer, with his mathematics, his poetry, and his calm leadership, always ready to bring the projects of the "noble corridor" to fruition and to be available whatever was needed. One friendship that has had a particular impact on me is that of my friend Elena Azurmendi, with whom I have shared our entire professional and personal journey. Everything I have experienced at work been much less intense and valuable without her company. I can say the same about my colleagues in the office: Dani, Fran, Imanol, Iñaki, Manolo, and Mayte. Thanks to them, the changes have been less difficult, and the good times have been infinitely better. And, of course, I want to mention my husband, whom I met in these classrooms and who is also a professor at the School, and my son, a second-year student. Thanks to their patience and understanding, I have been able to see the light after the storm.

3) What would you highlight about the School? 

I would highlight the essence of the School, which is the people who make it up: their ability to adapt and respond to any circumstance, their commitment to excellence in their work their enthusiasm for contributing to the construction of a better world, each from their own position and doing their bit. This way of being guarantees the success of any task.

4) How do you see Tecnun in 25 years?

I see the School with many more students, more buildings, and final, bigger. The range of Degrees master's programs and the teaching will have evolved and adapted to market needs, and the work staff and service staff will also have changed to meet the new needs of the University.

Igone Vélez / Information and Communications Technology Division

 
 
1) If you had to choose one memory, which one would you mention?

I have fond memories of my years as a doctoral student in the Ceit building Ceit Ibaeta, when Ceit yet have a building in Miramón and the area occupied the top floor of the main Ceit building. We had a great atmosphere among the doctoral students and researchers in area at the time: Joseba Echeverria, Ainhoa Galarza, Ane Martinez de Guereñu, Juan Francisco Sevillano, Oihana Otaegui, Mariate Linaza... Some have stayed at Ceit, others have moved on to other research centers, but we remain great friends.

2) Which people have influenced you? 

In research, working alone does not get you to the same point as working surrounded by a good team. And I am lucky to be and have been surrounded by a team at Ceit whom I share a desire to innovate and learn new things. All of them have influenced me in one way or another. It's difficult to name names because I'm sure I'll forget someone, but I would highlight, from my early days, Andoni Irizar, who was my thesis director thesis Fernando Arizti, Luis Fontán, and Andrés Garcia-Alonso, who have shown me the way forward, taught me much of what I know about work methodology and work capacity, and who, in different ways, have been core topic getting me to where I am today.

3) What will you take away from Ceit? 

I would highlight Ceit great atmosphere at Ceit between new researchers and those of us who have been here longer, which means I can say that I have made some great friends at Ceit. Ceit has Ceit given me the opportunity to learn new things every day and to really enjoy the pursuit of scientific excellence.

4) How do you see Ceit the next 25 years?

We recently had a talk by José María Bastero recalling what Ceit was like Ceit its early days, and although technologies have changed a lot since then, the foundation remains the same: people's vocation to learn, innovate, and strive for a work done, scientific and technical excellence. I would like that to remain the same, although obviously embracing new technological innovations as they emerge, whether it be AI, quantum computers, or whatever else may come.

 

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