Derek D.

Derek D. is a skilled engineering professional with extensive experience in the aerospace and manufacturing sectors. Currently serving as a Senior Integration Engineer at Vast since January 2024, Derek previously held roles at Astra as a Propulsion Production Engineer and at Collins Aerospace as a Manufacturing Engineer II. Derek's responsibilities at Collins included creating and improving production processes and developing CAD models using Lean principles. Early career experiences include mechanical engineering internships at NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory, where Derek contributed to the Mars 2020 rover project. Additionally, Derek has held multiple support roles in orientation programs at Cal Poly, demonstrating strong leadership and organizational skills, and holds a Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering from California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo.