Erwin Van Drunen
About Erwin Van Drunen
Erwin Van Drunen is a Principal Design Engineer at Rocket Lab, where he has worked since 2019. He holds a Master of Engineering in Biomedical Engineering and has extensive experience in mechanical and vehicle design engineering.
Work at Rocket Lab
Erwin Van Drunen has been employed at Rocket Lab since 2013, initially serving as a Rocket Vehicle Design Engineer. He worked in this role until 2018, after which he transitioned to Senior Vehicle Design Engineer for one year. In 2019, he assumed the position of Principal Design Engineer, where he has continued to contribute for five years. His work focuses on the design and development of rocket vehicles, leveraging his extensive engineering background.
Education and Expertise
Erwin Van Drunen holds a Master of Engineering (MEng) in Biomedical Engineering from the University of Canterbury, which he completed in 2013. He also earned a Bachelor of Engineering (BE(Hons)) in Mechanical Engineering from the same institution in 2009. Additionally, he has a Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Geology, achieved in 2011. His educational background supports his expertise in engineering and design within the aerospace sector.
Background
Prior to his tenure at Rocket Lab, Erwin Van Drunen gained diverse experience in various engineering roles. He worked as a Geologist at Solid Energy New Zealand Ltd from 2010 to 2012 and served as a Mechanical Engineer at Martin Aircraft Company for three months in 2009. He also completed a brief stint as a Student Mechanical Process Engineer at Christchurch Engine Centre (Pratt & Whitney/Air New Zealand) in 2008. His early career provided a solid foundation in mechanical and geological engineering.
Professional Development
In addition to his formal education, Erwin Van Drunen pursued further training in diving, obtaining a National Certificate in Diving (Leadership) and achieving PADI Divemaster status in 2010. This experience reflects his commitment to professional development and skill diversification beyond traditional engineering roles.