Job Title
Integrated Performance & Architecture Lead, New Glenn Reusable Booster Mechanical Systems
Employer
Blue Origin
Location
Seattle, WA
Why did you decide to pursue a computational engineering degree at UT Austin?
My decision to pursue COE at UT Austin was simple; I wanted a degree that would best equip me to utilize cutting edge computational tools to become an efficient, innovative engineer in the growing field of space and launch engineering.
Describe your current position.
I spearhead the architecture optimization and system configuration management of the Reusable First Stage Aft Module for Blue Origin's New Glenn heavy lift launch vehicle. My role is focused on data-driven and analytical initiatives aimed at refining the system architecture of the vehicle aft module, which encompasses the seven BE-4 booster engines, landing gear systems, thrust vector control actuators, and other mission-critical components. I also play a decisive role in representing the reusable booster mechanical systems within the Mission Operations Engineering Backroom, actively contributing to integrated test and launch campaigns for New Glenn. Through my efforts, I strive to enhance the launch vehicle performance, reliability, and operational success, aligning with Blue Origin’s mission of building a road to Space for the benefit of Earth.
What do you like most about your job? What do you find most challenging?
My favorite part about this job is being able to wear multiple hats – system architect, performance analyst, data engineer, test responsible engineer… the list goes on. It lets me practice and grow in multiple facets of engineering – related to both hardware and software.
What are your career goals?
In short term, I would like to become a flight or mission director for a launch vehicle or space flight program. In long term, I would like to become an astronaut or an educator – ideally both.
How did your involvement with student groups/organizations help prepare you for your career?
I was in UAV Austin and TREL and held student leadership positions in both organizations. Being immersed in such teamwork dependent environments during my time at UT made me realize early that being aligned and working with your peers is a requirement for success especially in a multidisciplinary engineering field like aerospace.
Do you recommend any particular focus for students other than academics to improve themselves as potential candidates for jobs?
Now more than ever, having both hands-on project experience as well as rock solid knowledge of fundamentals of engineering is a requirement. And you need both in order to be successful as an early career engineer. On top of this, showcasing your ability to set your ego aside and continue to be coachable will make you a standout candidate. Lastly, always remain curious and less judgmental.
What is one piece of advice you have for current students?
It is never too late to start pursuing what you find as your deep passion. But the true testament to your commitment to your passion is the ability to be stubborn against your first, second, or x number of failures. Engineering is supposed to be hard. You are supposed to fail. But you can’t let that be the barrier.
Do you have a favorite memory as a student in the department?
Competing in the 2019 AUVSI SUAS Competition with UAV Austin representing UT Austin was my favorite memory as a student in the department. Our team had put in hundreds of hours to our new autonomous vehicle Phoenix III leading up to the competition, and it was a great experience to see our effort pay off. But ultimately what made it memorable was the amazing people that I got to share that experience with.
