Mike Thomas Dikstaal
About Mike Thomas Dikstaal
Mike Thomas Dikstaal is a Propulsion Test Engineer I at Rocket Lab, where he has worked since 2021. He has a background in chemical and process engineering, with experience in the food and beverage industry and significant roles in various engineering positions across New Zealand.
Work at Rocket Lab
Mike Thomas Dikstaal has been employed at Rocket Lab as a Propulsion Test Engineer I since 2021. In this role, he is involved in qualification and development testing on the Electron's stage 3 Curie Engine. His work contributes to the advancement of propulsion systems within the aerospace sector, focusing on performance and reliability.
Previous Experience in Engineering
Prior to his current position, Dikstaal worked in various engineering roles. He served as a Process Engineer at Engex Ltd from 2016 to 2017, where he gained experience in process design. He also worked as a Cell Design Engineer at New Zealand's Aluminium Smelter from 2017 to 2021, focusing on design and optimization in the aluminium production process.
Education and Expertise
Dikstaal studied at The University of Auckland, where he earned a Bachelor of Engineering with First Class Honours in Chemical & Process Engineering from 2013 to 2016. His educational background provides a strong foundation in engineering principles, which he applies in his professional roles.
Background in the Food and Beverage Industry
Dikstaal has engineering experience in the Food and Beverage industry, specifically in designing and sizing equipment for the thermovinification of wine. This experience highlights his versatility and ability to apply engineering concepts across different sectors.
Research Experience at The University of Auckland
During his time at The University of Auckland, Dikstaal participated in a Material Design Research Studentship from 2015 to 2016. This role involved research activities that contributed to his understanding of material properties and applications in engineering.