Dana Frye
About Dana Frye
Dana Frye is a Senior Structural Analysis Engineer at Joby Aviation, specializing in composite ply stack optimization and high-speed impact analysis for eVTOL aircraft. With a background in mechanical engineering and extensive experience in structural analysis, Frye leads critical projects involving composite structures and collaborates with design teams to ensure project success.
Work at Joby Aviation
Dana Frye serves as a Senior Structural Analysis Engineer at Joby Aviation, a position held since 2018. In this role, Frye leads the analysis of composite structures, including empennage, propeller blades, and tilt linkages for Joby's electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. Frye engages in high-speed impact analysis of composite materials, ensuring that the designs meet safety and performance standards. The work involves close collaboration with mechanical and structural design teams to maintain project alignment and achieve engineering objectives.
Education and Expertise
Dana Frye holds a Master of Engineering (M.Eng.) in Mechanical Engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, completed between 2015 and 2018. Prior to this, Frye earned a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Mechanical Engineering from Lehigh University, studying from 2008 to 2012. Frye completed high school at St. Mary's Annapolis High School, graduating in 2008. Frye specializes in composite ply stack optimization, utilizing advanced software tools such as FEMAP, NX Nastran, Abaqus, Hypersizer, CATIA, and VABS/preVABS for structural analysis.
Background
Before joining Joby Aviation, Dana Frye worked as a Senior Engineer at General Dynamics Electric Boat from 2012 to 2018. This role involved significant engineering responsibilities in the New London/Norwich, Connecticut area. Frye's experience includes performing blade 3D to 1D beam homogenization and dehomogenization for stress and strain recovery, as well as developing and witnessing component and subcomponent test methodologies for certification substantiation.
Technical Skills
Dana Frye possesses a range of technical skills essential for structural analysis in aerospace engineering. Frye's expertise includes composite ply stack optimization aimed at weight reduction while adhering to manufacturing constraints. The ability to conduct high-speed impact analysis of composite structures is a key aspect of Frye's work. Additionally, Frye's proficiency in various software tools facilitates detailed analysis and design processes, contributing to the development of advanced aerospace components.