Noel Godínez
About Noel Godínez
Noel Godínez is a Lead Propulsion Design Engineer with extensive experience in the aerospace industry, specializing in mechanical and propulsion engineering. He has worked for notable companies such as SpaceX, Virgin Orbit, and Rocket Lab, and holds a B.S. in Engineering and an M.S. in Astronautical Engineering.
Current Role at Rocket Lab
Noel Godínez serves as the Lead Propulsion Design Engineer at Rocket Lab, a position he has held since 2024. His responsibilities include overseeing propulsion design projects and ensuring the successful integration of propulsion systems within the company's launch vehicles. His expertise in propulsion engineering contributes to the development of innovative solutions in the aerospace sector.
Previous Experience in Aerospace Engineering
Prior to his current role, Godínez worked at several prominent aerospace companies. He was a Lead Propulsion Design and Analysis Engineer at Virgin Orbit from 2022 to 2023, and a Senior Propulsion Design and Analysis Engineer at the same company from 2021 to 2022. His tenure at SpaceX included roles as a Propulsion Engineer II and a Mechanical Design Engineer from 2011 to 2018, where he focused on propulsion systems and mechanical design.
Education and Expertise
Noel Godínez earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering from Harvey Mudd College, where he studied from 2004 to 2008. He later obtained a Master of Science degree in Astronautical Engineering from the University of Southern California, completing his studies from 2010 to 2012. His educational background supports his expertise in computer-aided design (CAD), finite element analysis (FEA), and acceptance and qualification testing of flight hardware.
Background in Engineering Projects
During his time at Harvey Mudd College, Godínez participated in various engineering projects, including serving as a Team Member for a senior project and as an Experimental Engineering Rocket Developer for undergraduate research. These experiences laid the foundation for his future roles in the aerospace industry, enhancing his practical skills in propulsion and mechanical engineering.
Career Development in Aerospace
Godínez's career in aerospace engineering spans multiple roles and companies. He worked as an Aeromechanical Engineer at AeroVironment from 2008 to 2011 and as a Rocket Engineer at Microcosm, Inc. from 2020 to 2021. His diverse experiences across different organizations have equipped him with a strong background in mechanical and propulsion engineering, contributing to his current expertise.