Austin Portinause
About Austin Portinause
Austin Portinause is a Propulsion Integration Engineer at Astranis Space Technologies, where he has worked since 2024. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the University of California, Berkeley, and has prior experience with organizations such as NASA, SpaceX, and Tesla.
Work at Astranis
Austin Portinause currently serves as a Propulsion Integration Engineer at Astranis Space Technologies. He has been in this role since 2024, contributing to the company's efforts in satellite technology and propulsion systems. His position is based in San Francisco, California, where he applies his engineering expertise to support the development and integration of propulsion systems.
Education and Expertise
Austin Portinause studied Mechanical Engineering at the University of California, Berkeley, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree from 2021 to 2024. He is currently pursuing a Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering Sciences at the University of Colorado Boulder, with a focus on Fluids, Structures, and Materials, expected to complete in 2027. Additionally, he is studying Engineering Management at the same institution, further enhancing his technical and leadership skills.
Background
Austin Portinause has a diverse professional background, having worked in various roles within the aerospace and engineering sectors. His experience includes internships at notable organizations such as NASA, SpaceX, and Tesla. He also held leadership positions, including Vice President at Space Technologies and Rocketry (STAR) during 2022. His military service in the Navy for eight years provided him with valuable training and leadership experience.
Internship Experience
Austin has completed several internships that have contributed to his engineering skills. In 2022, he interned at NASA as a Lunar Habitation Development Intern and at Bloom Energy as an Equipment Engineering Intern. In 2023, he gained experience at SpaceX as a Raptor Manufacturing Intern and at Tesla as a Cell Manufacturing Engineering Intern. These roles have equipped him with practical knowledge in propulsion and manufacturing processes.
Research and Leadership Roles
Austin has engaged in research and leadership roles throughout his academic career. He served as an Undergraduate Research Assistant at the University of California, Berkeley, and UC San Diego. Additionally, he was involved in the Fung Fellowship at UC Berkeley as an Honors Fellow and Conservation + Technology Fellow, where he focused on promoting personal initiative and team success.