Rafael Ortega-Leija

Rafael Ortega-Leija has a diverse work experience in the engineering field. From March 2023, they will be working as a Composites Manufacturing Engineer at Joby Aviation. Prior to that, Rafael served as a Graduate Teaching Assistant at the University of Southern California (USC) from August 2022 to December 2022, where they conducted weekly office hours, graded assignments, and covered topics related to remote sensing. Before this role, they held two positions at USC: a Teaching Assistant from January 2022 to May 2022, where they hosted office hours, graded assignments, and clarified doubts for students enrolled in the Foundations of Astronautical Engineering course, and a Student Grader from August 2021 to December 2021, where they graded assignments and provided feedback for the Spacecraft Propulsion course.

In addition, Rafael has gained valuable experience through their involvement with the USC Rocket Propulsion Laboratory. From June 2021 to May 2022, they held the position of Lead Operations Engineer and was responsible for overseeing operations within the laboratory. Prior to this role, they served as the R&D Lead from June 2020 to May 2021, where they led research and development projects. From August 2019 to May 2020, Rafael held the position of Quartermaster / Shop Manager, managing supplies and equipment for the laboratory.

Rafael Ortega-Leija completed their education at the University of Southern California from 2018 to 2022. Rafael obtained a Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering during this period. Additionally, they pursued further education at the University of Southern California from 2021 to 2022, earning a Master of Science (MS) degree in Astronautical Engineering. Prior to attending university, Rafael Ortega-Leija graduated from Montwood High School in 2018, where they obtained their High School Diploma.