Jon Polaha
About Jon Polaha
Jon Polaha is the Senior Project Manager for Advanced Development Programs at Blue Origin, with a background in aerospace engineering and extensive experience in spacecraft propulsion systems.
Company
Jon Polaha is currently employed at Blue Origin. He holds the position of Senior Project Manager in the Advanced Development Programs. Jon started his tenure at Blue Origin in 2019, continuing his ongoing commitment to advancing aerospace technologies.
Title
As a Senior Project Manager for Advanced Development Programs at Blue Origin, Jon Polaha is responsible for overseeing critical projects focused on pioneering new aerospace technologies and systems. His role involves managing complex project lifecycles and ensuring innovative solutions are implemented.
Education and Expertise
Jon Polaha holds a Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering from Syracuse University, obtained between 1995 and 1997. Prior to that, he earned a Bachelor's degree in Aerospace, Aeronautical, and Astronautical Engineering from the same institution, completed from 1990 to 1995. He has extensive expertise in spacecraft propulsion devices and systems, as well as a solid working understanding of aerospace structures, materials, and processes.
Career Background
Jon Polaha has a diverse background in aerospace engineering, beginning his career as a Research Assistant at Syracuse University's Composites Laboratory from 1993 to 1995. He then worked as a Visiting Scientist at the Air Force Research Laboratory in Wright Patterson AFB from 1995 to 1996. From 1997 to 2000, he served as a Structural Analyst at Boeing. At Aerojet Rocketdyne, Jon was a Senior Project Engineer from 2000 to 2009 and later an Engineering Specialist from 2009 to 2016. He joined Blue Origin in 2016 as a Materials and Process Engineer before moving into his current role in 2019.
Skills and Specializations
Jon Polaha is known for his hands-on experience with spacecraft propulsion devices and systems. He has a strong working knowledge of aerospace structures, materials, and processes. Additionally, he is passionate about creating new designs and implementing cost-saving manufacturing improvements, showcasing his dedication to innovation and efficiency in aerospace engineering.