Brandon Shepherd Email & Phone Number

Growing up inspired by science fiction classics like Star Trek, Star Wars, and Stargate, I developed a lifelong fascination with space exploration. These stories sparked my imagination and set me on a journey to turn science fiction into reality through Aerospace and Systems Engineering.I began this journey at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, earning a Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering. There, I contributed to designing, manufacturing, and testing a CubeSat deorbit system, including a drag sail that successfully demonstrated its deployment capabilities. Simulating the sail’s effectiveness across various orbits reinforced my passion for engineering innovative space systems.Now, as a Master of Science in Space Systems Engineering student at Johns Hopkins University, I am deepening my expertise in systems engineering, thermal control systems, propulsion systems, and root cause analyses (RCAs). At Raytheon Technologies, I gained hands-on experience conducting RCAs to identify system defects, propose corrective actions, and enhance hardware reliability. This combination of academic rigor and professional experience has prepared me to tackle the complex challenges of space exploration.Some of my key accomplishments include:• Designing, manufacturing, and successfully testing a CubeSat deorbit system with a drag sail.• Conducting RCAs to improve spacecraft hardware reliability and mitigate risks.• Developing thermal control systems and propulsion systems, performing trade studies, and crafting risk mitigation strategies.With proficiency in MATLAB, Simulink, and SolidWorks, I have hands-on experience in systems integration, propulsion systems, and spacecraft testing. What excites me most is finding innovative solutions to complex problems that push the boundaries of human exploration.

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  System Sustainment Engineer

  Raytheon Technologies

  Jan 2023 - May 2024

  Responsibilities:• Worked with electrical and system schematics to perform Bent Pin Analysis (BPAs)on electrical connectors to determine potential safety concerns• Collaborated with a Failure Reporting, Analysis, and Corrective Action System (FRACAS) team tracking and cataloging factory defects.• Participated in weekly Root Cause and Corrective Action (RCCA) meetings to provide the FRACAS team with updates, and next steps, and offer any needed support.• Created Detailed Problem Descriptions (DPD) to initiate the RCCA process as well as continually provide updates as the RCCA progresses.• Utilized CPDM Windchill to update and manage the most current versions of schematics, ensuring accuracy and compliance with design standards.• Tasked with writing code and running simulations based on team-provided concepts, analyzing results, and presenting findings to the team for discussion and determining the next steps.