About Us

• Dr. Mirnabi is a distinguished expert in Information Technology and Network Engineering with more than 20 years of professional experience. He completed his postdoctoral research as a scholar at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (2016–2017), a Ph.D. in IT–Network Engineering in Armenia (2010–2013), a master’s degree in IT/Network Engineering (2008–2010), and a bachelor’s degree in Software Engineering (2003–2007).
• With over 12 years of teaching experience at the undergraduate and graduate levels, Dr. Mirnabi has guided the academic and professional development of countless students in Information Technology and Computer Science. His research contributions include 12 published articles with more than 270 citations, an h-index of 6, and an i10-index of 3, as reported by Google Scholar.
• Beyond his academic and professional accomplishments, Dr. Mirnabi is deeply passionate about youth education and innovation. From 2021 to 2025, he served as a FIRST LEGO League (FLL) and  FIRST Tech Challenge  (FTC) coach, leading student teams to earn notable rankings at Nevada state competitions. In 2025, he guided a Las Vegas team to compete at the prestigious international tournament hosted by Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) in Massachusetts.
• By combining advanced technical expertise with a dedication to mentoring, research, and innovation, Dr. Mirnabi is widely recognized as a leader in the IT, education, and robotics communities.

• Dr. Bonabian brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the program through his higher education achievements and over 35 years of practical experience in major engineering and construction projects worldwide. Dr. Bonabian holds a Ph.D. degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Utah, a master’s degree in Nuclear Engineering, and a Master’s degree in Business Administration (MBA). Dr. Bonabian received a bachelor’s degree in Physics and Mathematics
• Since moving to Las Vegas in 1989, Dr. Bonabian has been involved in various large-scale design and construction projects in Southern Nevada including major roadways, bridges, tunnels, wastewater treatment facilities, runways, parking structures, and buildings. Dr Bonabian served as an airport executive (Deputy Director of Aviation) in charge of construction and engineering projects at the Harry Reid International airport for 12 years. Highlights of his accomplishments at the airport were the management of the design and construction of Terminal 3 building including the associated roadway system, parking structure, underground tram facility, and airfield infrastructures. Dr. Bonabian developed a passion for science and mathematics at a very young age that prepared him for challenges throughout his professional career. He brings the same passion and knowledge to the Las Vegas Robotics Academy to help in creating future STEM professionals. 
• Dr. Bonabian is also a familiar face in the youth soccer community in Nevada and nationally. Dr. Bonabian, a former professional soccer player, founded the Players Soccer Club (formerly Neusport and Tabagators Club) in Las Vegas in 1989. Over 20,000 youth players have participated in the soccer club over the years with many having advanced to play in high school and collegiate programs across the country. Dr. Bonabian, a Hall of Fame youth soccer coach, brings his expertise in teaching, team building, coaching, and motivating young people in achieving their academic and professional goals. Introducing thrilling, sports-like challenges build students self-confidence and collaborative problem-solving skills and have a lifelong impact on STEM learning and interest.

Arash Salehi is an analytical thinker with a deep dedication to robotics and engineering. While currently a Biological Sciences major on the pre-med track at UNLV, Arash’s core drive lies in designing, building, and programming complex robotic systems. He brings a unique, multidisciplinary perspective to the academy, using his rigorous science background to approach engineering challenges from a fresh, highly analytical angle.

A graduate of Clark High School, Arash earned his Advanced Diploma and was recognized as a Magnet Scholar with Distinction and an AP Scholar with Honor. He naturally gravitates toward logic and strategy, actively applying the algorithmic thinking he honed in competitive chess directly to his robotics projects. As a dedicated member of the Varsity Chess Club, he helped his team secure a district championship in 2024 and placed 4th in the district in 2025.

Arash highly values adaptability and teamwork. He understands the dynamics of working in high-pressure environments, having competed on his high school's Varsity Swim Team and developed strong organizational skills through FBLA (Future Business Leaders of America), where he placed 4th in the marketing event at the state level. Holding the Seal of Biliteracy and having dedicated over 100 hours to community volunteering, Arash is excited to bring his diverse experiences to collaborate, innovate, and build alongside his peers.

Channeling his passion for engineering and his commitment to the community, Arash is actively involved with the Las Vegas Robotics Academy. At LVRA, he is dedicated to teaching students robotics and coding, helping them build critical thinking skills, creativity, and confidence through hands-on learning. By guiding the next generation of innovators, he not only reinforces his own technical expertise but also shares his enthusiasm for problem-solving with others.