Simon Willoughby Martin
About Simon Willoughby Martin
Simon Willoughby Martin is a Propulsion Test Technician at Rocket Lab in Auckland, New Zealand, where he has worked since 2021. He has a diverse background in engineering and technical roles, along with a commitment to promoting aerospace education through community initiatives.
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 responsible for conducting tests related to propulsion systems, contributing to the development and optimization of rocket technology. His position is based in Auckland, New Zealand, where he has been part of the team for three years.
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 the Eastern Institute of Technology, earning a Level 3 National Certificate in Mechanical Engineering from 2017 to 2018. Additionally, he completed a Certificate in Outdoor Pursuits at Otago Polytechnic in 2004, which also awarded him a Level 3 National Certificate.
Background in Various Roles
Before joining Rocket Lab, Simon held several positions across different industries. He worked at JB Hi-Fi as a Sales Associate from 2010 to 2013, and at Torpedo7 Group Ltd as a Stock Controller from 2020 to 2021. His experience also includes a role as a Fibre Installation Technician at Downer from 2012 to 2015, and as a Quatermaster/Supply Specialist in the NZ Army from 2004 to 2007. He served as a Technical Support specialist at NOW NZ Limited from 2015 to 2020.
Community Engagement and Initiatives
Simon serves as a Wonder Project Ambassador for Engineering NZ's program, which aims to introduce children to Newton's Laws through a rocketry challenge. He founded the Christchurch Rocketeers, a local hobby rocketry club affiliated with the New Zealand Rocketry Association. Additionally, he administers the Rocket Lab Hub and Dawn Aerospace Hub Facebook groups and organizes local aerospace activities.
Leadership in Online Communities
In addition to his professional roles, Simon managed an active World of Warcraft guild with over 300 members. His responsibilities included overseeing both end-game activities and social interactions within the guild, demonstrating his leadership and community-building skills in online environments.