Joseph La
About Joseph La
Joseph La is a Manufacturing Engineer III at BLUE ORIGIN and the owner of LA Capital Holdings LLC, with a background in aerospace engineering and a focus on advanced manufacturing techniques.
Current Title and Company
Joseph La is currently serving as a Manufacturing Engineer III at BLUE ORIGIN. He began his tenure in 2022 and is stationed in Merritt Island, Florida, United States. In this role, he contributes to the development and manufacturing of Blue Origin's New Glenn, with a particular focus on advanced manufacturing techniques.
Education and Expertise
Joseph La earned his Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of New Orleans, graduating in 2017. During his academic journey, he focused on innovative engineering solutions. Additionally, he studied the NASA Innovations in Space Technology Curriculum at Delgado Community College, where he completed a NASA Internship in Precision Machining in 2020.
Professional Background
Joseph La has a rich professional history in the aerospace industry. Before his current role at BLUE ORIGIN, he worked at Boeing as an FSW Manufacturing Engineer on the SLS Program from 2019 to 2022. His experience at SpaceX is extensive, having worked in various capacities including Thermal Materials Development (TPS, Starship Program), Foundry and Materials Engineering (Raptor Program), and Friction Stir Welding Operations (Falcon 9 Program) between 2017 and 2019.
Previous Teaching Role
Joseph La has also shared his expertise in academia. From 2020 to 2021, he served as an Adjunct Aerospace Instructor at Nunez College in Chalmette, Louisiana. During his 9-month tenure, he contributed to the education of future aerospace professionals.
Entrepreneurship
In addition to his engineering roles, Joseph La is the Owner of LA Capital Holdings LLC, founded in 2020. The company operates out of the Michoud Assembly Facility in New Orleans. This entrepreneurial venture reflects his diverse skill set and interest in business alongside engineering.
Early Career and Research
Joseph La's career began with roles that emphasized hands-on experience in engineering and research. His work at NASA as an Undergraduate Researcher in Friction Stir Welding in 2016-2017 laid the foundation for his future endeavors. He also served as a General Contractor Assistant at La & Le Properties LLC and as an Undergraduate Researcher at the University of New Orleans.
Academic Milestones
Joseph La was Valedictorian at Salmen High School, where he studied from 2009 to 2013. His academic achievements continued through his undergraduate studies, culminating in a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of New Orleans.