Shipping hardware that inspires use.

Coming from a background in electric vehicle development, I am keen to use my skills to launch products that inspire the next generation of engineers. I seek a role in advancing the embodiment of artificial intelligence and distributing it to the public.

Education

  • M.S. in Aerospace Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, 2021-2022

  • Graduated with Honors, GPA: 3.6/4.0

  • B.S. in Mechanical Engineering, University of California Riverside, 2016-2020

  • Graduated with Honors, GPA: 3.55/4.0

Experience

Engineering Contractor, Fort - Stealth Startup, San Francisco, CA, April 2025 — Present

Senior Mechanical Design and Analysis Engineer, Tesla Motors, Palo Alto, CA, March 2024 — Present

Mechanical Design and Analysis Engineer, Tesla Motors, Palo Alto, CA, May 2022 — March 2024

Graduate Researcher, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, January 2021 — May 2022

Engineering Internships, January 2018 — August 2021

  • SpaceX: Mechanical development and test engineer on Starlink

  • SpaceX: Propulsion Analyst on Raptor and Merlin engines

  • Astranis Space Technologies: Mechanical systems design engineer

  • Rivian Automotive: Powertrain design engineer

  • NASA JPL: Research on high frequency percussive robotic drills, utilizing piezo-electric actuators


Skills

  • Proven track record of bringing complex assemblies to high volume production: cast, injection molded, and rubber components with integrated electronics

  • Strong background in analysis: structural optimization, thermal analysis, explicit dynamics, fatigue analysis, random vibration analysis.

  • Experience in user-focused hardware design: ergonomic tactile interfaces, housings, and integrated sensor stacks in high density consumer electronics applications that meet dust/water sealed IP68 standards

  • Experience in managing tier 1/2/3/4 suppliers, honed skillset in technical communication across design, manufacturing, and production teams


Interests

  • Fitness, heath, and improving my understanding of the human body

  • Reading, especially history, classic works, and technical literature

  • Traveling to learn about foreign cultures, value systems, religions, and economies

Interested in connecting?

Let’s talk projects, collaborations, or anything design!

Interested in connecting?

Let’s talk projects, collaborations, or anything design!

Interested in connecting?

Let’s talk projects, collaborations, or anything design!

Zachary Valles

Copyright 2025 by Zachary Valles

Zachary Valles

Copyright 2025 by Zachary Valles

Zachary Valles

Copyright 2025 by Zachary Valles