Simon Willoughby Martin
About Simon Willoughby Martin
Simon Willoughby Martin is a Propulsion Test Technician at Rocket Lab in Auckland, New Zealand, with a background in aerospace engineering and extensive experience in various technical roles. He is also an active member of the rocketry community, founding the Christchurch Rocketeers and serving as a Wonder Project Ambassador for Engineering NZ.
Work at Rocket Lab
Simon Willoughby Martin has been employed at Rocket Lab as a Propulsion Test Technician since 2021. In this role, he is involved in testing propulsion systems, contributing to the development and optimization of rocket technology. His work is based in Auckland, New Zealand, where he applies his technical skills and knowledge in aerospace engineering to support the company's mission in the space industry.
Education and Expertise
Simon studied Aerospace, Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering at the Air New Zealand Training Academy, where he achieved a Level 3 Certificate in 2021. He also attended Otago Polytechnic, earning a Level 3 National Certificate in Outdoor Pursuits in 2004. Additionally, he studied Mechanical Engineering at the Eastern Institute of Technology, obtaining a Level 3 National Certificate from 2017 to 2018. His educational background equips him with a solid foundation in engineering principles relevant to his current role.
Background and Previous Employment
Prior to his role at Rocket Lab, Simon held various positions in different industries. He worked as a Fibre Installation Technician at Downer from 2012 to 2015 in Napier, New Zealand. He also served as a Sales Associate at JB Hi-Fi from 2010 to 2013 in Palmerston North and Dunedin. Simon's experience includes working as a Stock Controller at Torpedo7 Group Ltd for nine months in 2020-2021 and as a Technical Support - Lines and Infrastructure specialist at NOW NZ Limited from 2015 to 2020.
Community Involvement and Initiatives
Simon is actively involved in the aerospace community. He founded the Christchurch Rocketeers, a local hobby rocketry club affiliated with the New Zealand Rocketry Association. He also administers the Rocket Lab Hub and Dawn Aerospace Hub Facebook groups, fostering discussions and connections within the aerospace community. Additionally, he serves as a Wonder Project Ambassador for Engineering NZ, where he introduces children to Newton's Laws through a rocketry challenge.
Gaming and Leadership Experience
In addition to his technical and community roles, Simon managed an active World of Warcraft guild with over 300 members. He coordinated both end-game and social activities, demonstrating leadership and organizational skills in a virtual environment. This experience reflects his ability to manage large groups and engage with diverse individuals in a collaborative setting.