Engineering and Policy

The concept that space holds solutions to problems on Earth sparked my passion for engineering, and I have Mark Rober’s video, Is NASA a Waste of Money?, to thank for that. His breakdown of how space exploration drives innovation made me realize that engineering is not just about building things—it’s about solving real-world challenges in ways we never imagined.

Engineering became my foundation, leading me to the Center for High Frequency Electronics, where I honed my mechanical problem-solving skills. There, I worked on refining precision components and troubleshooting complex systems, learning how small adjustments could have a significant impact. This hands-on experience strengthened my ability to think critically and approach challenges methodically.

Yet, I soon realized that technical expertise alone wasn’t enough to drive progress. Policies, funding, and advocacy play a crucial role in shaping the future of aerospace. This understanding led me to explore governance and public policy, where I saw how decisions made at the highest levels influence scientific advancements. Without proper advocacy, even the most groundbreaking engineering innovations struggle to gain the support they need.

Merging these two passions—engineering and policy—I aim to contribute to the aerospace industry by championing both technological advancements and the policies that sustain them. By blending technical expertise with strategic advocacy, I hope to help push the boundaries of space exploration, ensuring that humanity continues to reach for the stars.