I am an accomplished aerospace and software engineer and executive with over two decades of profound experience spanning deep-tech innovation, software and aerospace engineering, and entrepreneurial leadership. My career is characterized by a fusion of technical expertise and strategic business acumen, driving advancements from conceptual R&D to successful market commercialization.
My Resume
I studied Computer Science and Aerospace Engineering from the University of Illinois and began my career as a software engineer at organizations including the National Center for Supercomputing Applications, before transitioning to the private sector at CDW and U.S. Office Products. I then transitioned to working in the aerospace industry contract roles at Kennedy Space Center, collaborating with entities such as NASA, Boeing, and the USAF on both human spaceflight and uncrewed missions, and contributing to major programs like the Space Shuttle and International Space Station. Concurrently, I worked as a developer at Eckler’s Automotive coding and managing projects that generated $50M in annual revenue for the auto parts retailer. This diverse experience provided me with a comprehensive understanding of complex systems, software development, general engineering management and strategic planning.
Currently, I serve as a Co-Founder and Chief Technology Officer of Aphelion Aerospace, a pioneering company focused on spacecraft propulsion systems and launch services. In this role, I lead the engineering team in the critical R&D and commercialization of proprietary environmentally-friendly rocket and spacecraft propulsion technology and partially-reusable small satellite launch services. My leadership has been instrumental in securing multiple funding rounds and accelerating product development. I oversee all software development projects, including crucial safety, control, simulation, and internet applications, acting as both the senior software architect and technical lead. A notable achievement in 2023 includes a role as Principal Investigator for a NASA Phase I SBIR contract, developing AI-enabled technologies for autonomous ground process and space launch operations, underscoring his dedication to cutting-edge innovation.
Throughout my career, I have demonstrated leadership in driving technological advancement and organizational growth. As a co-founder and former Chief Operating Officer of Aphelion Orbitals (the predecessor to Aphelion Aerospace), I was instrumental in establishing the engineering team, designing the propulsion system and launch vehicle hardware/software, and successfully raising seed funding. I also played the primary lead role for the company’s participation in the DARPA Launch Challenge, showcasing my ability to lead high-stakes, rapid-development initiatives. Beyond the aerospace sector, my extensive experience in software and data systems is highlighted by his work at Eckler Industries, where I led the upgrade of marketing and sales platforms and managed complex database architecture and middleware integrations. My comprehensive technical toolkit, including, but not limited to, proficiency in C++, Python, PHP, Java, Matlab, ANSYS, Autodesk Inventor, and various rocket propulsion analysis tools.
The filing of two patents in 2023 further exemplifies my ongoing commitment to innovation.