Sam Rodriguez
About Sam Rodriguez
Sam Rodriguez is an R&D Systems Engineer at Sandia National Laboratories with a background in mechanical engineering and extensive experience in robotics and reliability engineering.
Current Position: R&D Systems Engineer at Sandia National Laboratories
Sam Rodriguez is currently working as an R&D Systems Engineer at Sandia National Laboratories. His tenure at Sandia began in 2023, where he is based in Livermore, California. In this role, Sam applies his expertise in mechanical engineering and systems design to advance research and development initiatives within the organization.
Previous Experience: Robotics Support Engineer Intern at Dexterity, Inc.
In 2022, Sam Rodriguez worked as a Robotics Support Engineer Intern at Dexterity, Inc. for two months in Redwood City, California. During this internship, Sam gained hands-on experience with robotic systems, providing support for various engineering projects and enhancing his skills in robotics and automation.
Academic and Instructional Roles at Stanford University
From 2021 to 2023, Sam Rodriguez served as a Course/Teaching Assistant at Stanford University. While pursuing his Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering, he assisted with course instruction and provided support to students. His role also involved conducting research in robotic maneuverability, significantly contributing to his academic and professional development.
Education: Mechanical Engineering at Stanford University and California State University Maritime Academy
Sam Rodriguez achieved a Master of Science (MS) in Mechanical Engineering from Stanford University, where he studied from 2021 to 2023. Prior to that, he earned a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Mechanical Engineering from California State University Maritime Academy, completing his degree in 2020. His education provided a strong foundation in mechatronics, mechanical design, and research methodologies.
Research Initiatives: Applications of Controllable Tails in Robotics
Sam Rodriguez has been actively involved in research focused on the applications of controllable tails in robotics. From 2020 to 2021, he worked as an Independent Researcher, exploring the benefits of these mechanisms on robot maneuverability. His research entailed prototyping with 3D printers, wiring electronics, and developing control systems, offering valuable insights into enhancing robotic systems.