Nikhil Shastri
About Nikhil Shastri
Nikhil Shastri serves as the Director of Systems and Mission Architecture at Rocket Lab, where he specializes in the integration of mechanical, software, and electrical engineering. He has a diverse background in engineering roles across multiple companies and countries, contributing to various projects from automated systems to satellite subsystems.
Current Role at Rocket Lab
Nikhil Shastri serves as the Director of Systems and Mission Architecture at Rocket Lab, a position he has held since 2023. In this role, he focuses on the integration of systems and mission architecture, leveraging his extensive experience in engineering. His responsibilities include overseeing the development of complex systems and ensuring that mission objectives are met efficiently.
Previous Experience in Engineering
Prior to his current role, Nikhil Shastri worked at Rocket Lab as a Lead Systems Engineer for seven months in 2022. He has a diverse background in engineering, having held various positions at Tyvak Nano-Satellite Systems, Inc. from 2015 to 2022, including Systems Engineer and Software Systems Lead. His earlier roles include positions at Curtiss Wright Controls, Rogers Communications, and Scotiabank, where he gained experience in software development and network design.
Educational Background
Nikhil Shastri earned a Master of Science (MS) in Aerospace, Aeronautical and Astronautical/Space Engineering from the University of Michigan, studying from 2013 to 2014. He also holds a Bachelor of Applied Science (B.A.Sc.) in Mechatronics, Robotics, and Automation Engineering from the University of Waterloo, where he studied from 2008 to 2013. His education has provided him with a strong foundation in engineering principles.
Innovative Engineering Projects
Nikhil Shastri has a history of designing and building innovative engineering solutions. He created an automated bench press spotter capable of lifting 300 lbs and developed an automatic shredder. His projects range from small-scale inventions to large-scale software platform development, demonstrating his ability to solve complex engineering problems.
International Experience and Perspective
Nikhil Shastri has lived and worked in multiple countries, including India, Canada, Germany, and the United States. This international experience has provided him with a unique perspective on global business practices and cultural differences, enhancing his ability to work in diverse teams and environments.