Lainey Drake

Lainey Drake is a skilled Mission Operations Engineer with experience at Apex and Millennium Space Systems, where responsibilities included interfacing with mission partners and translating system requirements into executable operations products for on-orbit missions. Previously, Lainey held the position of Systems Engineer at Virgin Orbit, focusing on autonomous rocket and plane sequences and integrating subsystem updates into mission-specific flight software. Early experience includes roles as a Systems Engineering Intern, Avionics Engineering Intern, and Research Assistant, showcasing proficiency in coding, automation, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Lainey holds dual degrees in Physics and Theatre from Wake Forest University, complemented by significant achievements in performing arts and technical theatre.