Zak West
About Zak West
Zak West is the Manager of Hardware Development at Skydio, where he has worked since 2015. He has extensive experience in UAV design and manufacturing, as well as a strong background in medical device production and automotive racing.
Work at Skydio
Zak West has been serving as the Manager of Hardware Development at Skydio since 2015. Over the course of nine years, he has contributed to the development of advanced hardware solutions in the UAV sector. His role involves overseeing various aspects of hardware design and development, ensuring that products meet the company's high standards for performance and reliability. Skydio, located in San Mateo, California, is known for its innovative drone technology, and West's expertise plays a crucial role in the company's ongoing projects.
Education and Expertise
Zak West possesses a strong background in manual and CNC milling, which is essential for the manufacturing process of medical devices. He has developed expertise in catheter construction techniques and is proficient in SolidWorks mechanical design. His technical skills are complemented by extensive experience in the design, assembly, and testing of UAV aircraft, where he applies his knowledge as a skilled pilot. This combination of skills positions him as a knowledgeable professional in both the aerospace and medical device industries.
Background
Before joining Skydio, Zak West held various positions that contributed to his professional development. He worked at Shifamed as an Associate R&D Engineer from 2012 to 2014, where he gained experience in research and development. Prior to that, he spent six years at Voyage Medical as an R&D Tech II, focusing on product development in the medical field. Additionally, he worked briefly at Matternet Inc. as a UAV Engineering/Tech in 2014, further enhancing his expertise in unmanned aerial vehicle technology.
Achievements
Zak West has served as a product representative for approximately a dozen different companies in the model aircraft industry. His extensive experience in UAV design and testing has established him as a knowledgeable figure in the field. Furthermore, his involvement in high-performance automotive racing showcases his technical skills and hands-on experience, as he performs all modifications and servicing on his vehicle. This diverse background reflects his commitment to engineering excellence across multiple domains.