Earthrise Engineering Center
Welcome to the Earthrise Engineering Center (EEC)
Located at the heart of the Spirulina Plant within the new Harvest Building (since 2025) in Calipatria, California, the Earthrise Engineering Center is a hub for innovation, research, and collaboration for smart agriculture and more.
We open our doors to universities, research institutions, educational programs, and internship initiatives—offering a unique space dedicated to advancing scientific knowledge and engineering solutions that benefit all of humanity.
Our Mission
To promote innovation through engineering and research by applying rigorous scientific methods and fostering collaborative investigation in smart agriculture and industry. We strive to create a vibrant environment where students, educators, and professionals come together to solve real-world challenges and build a more sustainable future.
What We Offer
- State-of-the-art research facilities
- Opportunities for academic and industrial collaboration
- Support for student internships and educational programs
- Access to live industrial processes within the Spirulina production plant
Why We Research
At the Earthrise Engineering Center, we believe that research is more than a technical pursuit — it’s a philosophical commitment to understanding and improving the world.
We are guided by the idea that philosophy and experimentation must work together:
- Philosophy asks why we explore, what questions matter, and how our discoveries should impact humanity.
- Experiments test our assumptions, refine our ideas, and open up new ways of thinking.
This dual lens keeps our work grounded, ethical, and visionary. Whether it's through engineering innovation, environmental sustainability, or scientific advancement, we are committed to research that both serves humanity and challenges our understanding of the world.
“We don’t just build solutions—we build meaning.”
Welcome to the Team
We have a great environment for internship and collaboration opportunities
Earthrise Nutritionals LLC
We have a great environment for internship and collaboration opportunities
Earthrise Engineering Team
Tomoatsu Maguchi, ME, PMP
Tomoatsu Maguchi, ME, PMP
Tomoatsu Maguchi, ME, PMP
Industrial Engineer
Director of EEC
Plant Manager
Rafael Mendez. ME, MBA
Tomoatsu Maguchi, ME, PMP
Tomoatsu Maguchi, ME, PMP
Mechatronics Engineer
Maintenance Manger
Esther Pasos
Tomoatsu Maguchi, ME, PMP
Esther Pasos
Chemical Engineer
Culture control manager
Luis Andrade
Tomoatsu Maguchi, ME, PMP
Esther Pasos
Industrial Engineer
Harvest / Extraction Manager
Special Events / News and Remarks
Hosting Visitors from University of California 10/9/2025
Earthrise Nutritionals demonstrates an impressive commitment to climate-smart, sustainable agriculture. Their initiative reflects forward-thinking practices that foster diverse, resilient food systems and promote environmental stewardship in the face of a challenging climate. These values resonate strongly with UC ANR's mission to improve the lives of Californians through science-based solutions. Our UCCE Imperial County team greatly appreciated the opportunity to tour the facilities, exchange ideas, and strengthen connections that advance research and sustainability for current and future generations.
- Dr. Chandra Richards, UCCE Area County Director for Imperial and San Diego Counties
In Loving Memory of Dr. Amha Belay 3/3/2026
It is with the deepest sadness that we announce the passing of Dr. Amha Belay, our former Chief Technology Officer. To us, he was far more than a colleague. He connected with us in a way that felt less like friendship and more like family.
The Calipatria sunlight and all the warmth of this region will never be enough to fill the void left by his absence.
Dr. Belay was not only a brilliant scientist, but also a mentor to all of us. He brought us together, teaching us about the emotional gravitational forces that work around us and encouraging us to philosophically question the world of research. He challenged our limits of knowledge, pushed us to think deeper, and inspired us to continue learning and seeking understanding.
As much as we grew in knowledge under his guidance, he constantly reminded us to be grounded and to remain humble and open to new knowledge. He taught us to ask the right questions and to remain in continual pursuit of knowledge.
His leadership shaped the foundational ethical compass of the company and strengthened the structural integrity of our quality standards. More importantly, he showed us how to harness the power of collective innovation through collaboration and respect.
Beyond the workplace, we shared many meaningful moments. Whether on the golf course or around a dining table, he had the rare ability to transform simple experiences into something profound. Time spent with him was never just a joyful moment—it felt like stepping into another season of life, rich with insight, reflection, and connection.
We extend our sincere condolences to his family and loved ones during this time of loss.
We are deeply grateful for everything Dr. Belay gave us—through his leadership, his mentorship, and his friendship. He will be remembered always as the genuine, authentic, and extraordinary person he was.
On behalf of the entire company, I would like to express our profound respect and heartfelt condolences as we honor the lasting legacy of Dr. Belay.
His guidance, integrity, and contributions will continue to shape our organization for years to come.
Sincerely,
Earthrise Nutritionals LLC
President and CEO
Takaaki Ono
