Vikram Aditya Kumar
About Vikram Aditya Kumar
Vikram Aditya Kumar is a Propulsion Engineer and Nozzle Aerodynamics Design Lead and Integrator at Boom Supersonic, where he has worked since 2019. He specializes in supersonic nozzle design and has extensive experience in aerodynamics, having previously held positions at Solar Turbines and Pratt & Whitney.
Work at Boom
Vikram Aditya Kumar has been employed at Boom Supersonic since 2019, serving as a Propulsion Engineer - Nozzle Aerodynamics Design Lead and Integrator. In this role, he leads the design and analysis of secondary flow system components, which enhances the performance of propulsion systems. His work involves the design of the Overture/Symphony supersonic inlet system, where he applies his expertise in supersonic nozzle aero design and airframe integration. Kumar's contributions focus on advanced techniques such as lobed mixer and chevron RANS CFD analysis, which are essential for jet noise suppression.
Education and Expertise
Kumar holds a Master of Science (M.S.) in Aerospace Engineering from the Georgia Institute of Technology, where he studied from 2008 to 2010. He also earned a Bachelor of Engineering (B.E.) in Mechanical Engineering from Visvesvaraya Technological University, completing his studies from 2004 to 2008. His educational background is complemented by his experience as a Graduate Research Assistant at Georgia Tech, where he focused on CFD analysis and development. Kumar has expertise in CFD workflow automation and scripting, which contributes to efficiency in design processes.
Professional Background
Before joining Boom Supersonic, Kumar worked at Solar Turbines as a Principal Engineer - Compressor Aerodynamics from 2018 to 2019 and as a Senior Engineer - Compressor Aerodynamics from 2014 to 2018, both positions based in San Diego, California. He also gained experience at Pratt & Whitney as an Engineer - Compressor Aerodynamics from 2011 to 2014 in East Hartford, Connecticut. Additionally, he interned at NASA Ames Research Center in 2009, where he was involved in aerospace-related projects.
Achievements in Aerodynamics
Kumar specializes in supersonic nozzle aero design and airframe integration, focusing on advanced aerodynamic techniques. His work includes the application of theoretical knowledge to practical aerodynamics through scaled model design. He has contributed to the development of innovative solutions in propulsion system performance, particularly in the context of supersonic flight. His background in compressor aerodynamics has also informed his approach to design challenges in the aerospace sector.
Personal Interests
Kumar has had a lifelong fascination with mechanical systems and airplanes. He has expressed a greater excitement for learning about supersonic planes than for reading comics or novels during his childhood. This passion for aviation is further influenced by his father, an accomplished engineer and gas turbine expert, who has mentored him throughout his career. Kumar is motivated to leverage his engineering background and interest in fast planes to connect people globally.