Description of Current Work

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Q: Can you describe the work you're doing and the field or space you're working in?

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A: Yeah, so I'm on the Starlink team. Starlink is SpaceX's business providing Wi-Fi to pretty much anywhere in the world. As long as you have a user terminal, you can take it with you and get Internet from satellites. My team specifically works on a newer device—a type of radio wave amplifier for some of our ground stations. I've been involved a lot with the mechanical design of tools to help assemble that new device. I've also worked on fixing the mechanical reliability of our test racks, which have had some issues. So, I've been doing both design work and troubleshooting.

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Typical Daily Tasks

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Q: What are your normal tasks or daily activities like? What do you do on a daily basis, if you have a normal day?

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A: It definitely varies depending on what I'm working on. SpaceX is very fast-paced, and everyone is always pushing to get solutions implemented quickly. If I'm working on mechanical design, like today, I start by talking with technicians who assemble the device. One of my tools is meant to make a manual process easier, such as manipulating small, thin magnets. I designed some tools to grab onto those and rotate them precisely. Today, I went through the process of understanding the current manual method, made some sketches, and then modeled it in CAD. I finished the 3D model today and sent it out to be manufactured. We'll have those tools by Friday, and then we'll test them and see what needs to be improved.

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Skills and Technologies Used

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Q: You mentioned making the models. Do you use robotics at all, or is it more engineering-focused? What kind of skills does it involve?

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A: My main technical skills are in CAD, or computer-aided design. There are different software tools for CAD, but once you're proficient in one, you can translate those skills to others. I don't do much programming, but I use MATLAB for simulations and plotting. In college, I did a lot of machining, which helps me understand how a part is made and avoid issues during manufacturing. Designing with manufacturing in mind helps streamline the process and avoid delays.

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Importance of Coding

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Q: You mentioned coding briefly. Do you think it's important to have a coding foundation, or can you just learn the basics on the job?

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A: I definitely recommend taking at least an introductory coding course, ideally in college. I took a Python course in high school but didn't remember much. In college, I had courses that used MATLAB for simulations, which helped me get more comfortable with coding. Python is widely used because of its ease, while MATLAB is more for simulations. Both have their place, depending on your field.

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Path to Current Role

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Q: Can you give a quick overview of what got you interested in your current work, the college you're in, and any previous experience related to what you're doing now?

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A: My first dream job was to be an astronaut, which many people share. As I progressed through school, I realized I enjoyed math and science. By the end of middle school, I focused on either automotive or aerospace engineering. I found satisfaction in solving problems and designing physical solutions. My first exposure to engineering was in college at Cornell University, where I worked on the Formula SAE team, designing and building a race car. That hands-on experience was foundational and valuable for internships. Last summer, I interned at SpaceX on the same team I'm on now. I'm currently at Cornell doing a one-year master's program in engineering.

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Advice for Aspiring Aerospace Engineers

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Q: Do you have any other specific advice for someone interested in aerospace engineering?

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A: It helps to read about aerospace engineering and watch videos to learn more. Gaining hands-on experience through research or college projects is valuable. Being a good problem solver and thinking creatively are important skills. Classes are helpful, but applying what you learn through personal projects or hands-on work can really solidify your skills and understanding.

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Emerging Opportunities in Aerospace Engineering

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Q: In your current field of aerospace engineering, what do you think are the most interesting opportunities emerging in the next 5 to 10 years?

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A: SpaceX is still growing quickly, and there are opportunities here if you want to work hard and learn a lot. There are also innovative smaller companies and startups. For example, Varda is focused on in-space manufacturing, starting with pharmaceuticals. Relativity Space is creating entirely metal 3D-printed rockets. Boom Supersonic is building a quieter, next-generation supersonic passenger jet. Aside from startups, there are opportunities at larger companies like Boeing and Airbus, as well as government agencies like NASA and JPL, and defense contractors like Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman. Each offers different opportunities depending on what you're interested in.

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Career Reflections

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Q: Looking back on your career so far, is there anything you would have done differently?

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A: One thing I’ve learned is that applying to jobs and internships involves a fair amount of luck. Even if you're a strong candidate, you might not get a position because someone else might get there first. So, you can never apply to too many positions. Starting early is also beneficial; many people begin applying for internships as early as September for the following summer. Additionally, leveraging connections—whether through friends, family, or acquaintances in the field—can provide valuable insights and improve your chances. Recommendations from employees can help your resume get past automated screenings, which is a significant hurdle. Interviews can be tough, and rejection is common, so it's important to stay persistent and manage your expectations.

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Career Goals and Aspirations

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Q: What are your short-term and long-term goals for your career?

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A: In the short term, my goal is to work hard during my current internship and prove my skills to my manager and mentor. Even if I don’t end up back at SpaceX full-time, I want to show that I’m capable and leave a good impression. Long-term, I aim to find a role that is both challenging and enjoyable. I’m looking for a balance between a fast-paced environment like SpaceX and a slower, more established company like Lockheed Martin. Ideally, I want a job that offers a good mix of excitement and stability.

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Current Projects and Responsibilities​

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Q: Can you describe the project you’re currently working on?

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A: I’m working on a project involving a device that uses very precise magnets to align an electron beam. The magnets need to be manually adjusted to optimize the device’s performance. My current task is to design specialized tweezers that will make this alignment process more precise and standardized, reducing the reliance on manual adjustments and improving overall accuracy.

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Artificial Intelligence and Technology Use

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Q: Do you work with artificial intelligence in your role?

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A: I personally don’t work with artificial intelligence. However, I know that some people at SpaceX do use AI for various tasks, like translating code between programming languages. AI applications are limited by confidentiality and trade secrets, so it’s not used for everything. AI can be useful for specific tasks but isn’t a part of my day-to-day work.

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Application of Math and Physics

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Q: How much advanced math and physics do you use in your work?

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A: The use of advanced math like calculus varies. I don’t use it every day, but it comes into play for more complex problems. I use basic math and concepts learned in engineering courses regularly, such as statics for understanding forces and dynamics for vibrations. Physics, particularly laws of physics, is a big part of what I apply in my work.

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Unique Aspects and Job Satisfaction

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Q: What do you find most unique or cutting-edge about your career, and what is your favorite part of your job?

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A: The most unique aspect of my career is working on devices that haven’t been produced at scale before. It’s exciting to be part of something new and innovative. My favorite part of the job is the physical design process—being given constraints, iterating designs, and ultimately creating something functional and impactful. It’s very satisfying to see a project come to life and make a tangible difference.

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Teamwork vs. Individual Work

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Q: Do you work more as part of a team or individually?

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A: It’s a mix of both. My team has daily stand-up meetings to discuss the state of projects and ensure each problem has an assigned engineer. While I often work on specific projects individually, I collaborate with team members and seek feedback when needed. Teamwork is essential, but much of the detailed work is done on an individual basis.

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