Derek Johnson

Derek Johnson is an experienced aerospace software engineer specializing in flight software and systems engineering. Currently serving as Flight Software Lead at ASI by Rocket Lab since April 2020, Derek plays a pivotal role in the Blue Ghost lunar lander program and has contributed to various missions involving the MAX Flight Software. Previously, as a Senior Software Engineer, Derek integrated MAX Flight Software with Rocket Lab’s Lunar Photon spacecraft for the successful NASA CAPSTONE mission and designed its telemetry sub-system. Earlier career experiences include working at Bigelow Aerospace, where Derek contributed to the launch of the BEAM module to the ISS and led a team in developing a Rad-Hard ECLSS controller. Derek's diverse background also encompasses software development roles at Cooper Power Systems, Graphic House, and Wausau Paper, underscoring a strong foundation in software engineering and systems design. Derek holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Software Engineering and Electrical Engineering from Michigan Technological University.