Ashley Brittenden
About Ashley Brittenden
Ashley Brittenden serves as the Acting Lead for Propulsion Continuous Improvement at Rocket Lab, where she manages a team of 35 engineers. With a strong background in mechanical engineering and extensive experience in design and analysis, she has contributed to various roles in the aerospace and engineering sectors.
Current Role at Rocket Lab
Ashley Brittenden serves as the Acting Lead for Propulsion Continuous Improvement at Rocket Lab, a position held since 2021. In this role, Ashley manages a team of 35 engineers, focusing on enhancing propulsion systems. Prior to this, Ashley worked as a Senior Propulsion Engineer at Rocket Lab starting in 2020. The combination of leadership and engineering expertise allows Ashley to drive continuous improvement initiatives within the propulsion department.
Previous Experience in Engineering
Ashley Brittenden has a diverse background in engineering roles prior to joining Rocket Lab. Ashley worked at Caliber Design as a Design Engineer for one year from 2015 to 2016 and later as an Analysis Manager from 2016 to 2020. Additionally, Ashley gained experience as a Mechanical Design Engineer at Motovated Design & Analysis Ltd for eight months in 2014. A role as a Research Assistant at the University of Canterbury from 2012 to 2013 further contributed to Ashley's engineering foundation.
Education and Qualifications
Ashley Brittenden studied at the University of Canterbury, where Ashley earned a Bachelor of Engineering with First Class Honours in Mechanical Engineering from 2007 to 2010. Following this, Ashley completed a Master of Engineering (ME) with Distinction in Mechanical Engineering in 2012. Earlier education includes achieving NCEA Level 3 at Burnside High School from 2002 to 2006. This educational background provides a solid foundation for Ashley's engineering career.
Technical Skills and Proficiencies
Ashley Brittenden possesses strong proficiency with various CAD systems, which supports the design and analysis processes in engineering. Ashley has significant experience in the analysis of machine and structural components, utilizing Finite Element Analysis (FEA), Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), and adhering to AS/NZS codes. Additionally, Ashley has experience in concepting and creating 2D layouts for large factories, as well as scoping and prototyping work for consumer products.