Luis Carlos Molina Zendejas
Aeronautical Engineer
Queretaro, Edomex, CDMX,MX
Summary
Trilingual Aeronautical Engineer with a solid technical background bridging industrial manufacturing and design processes. Proven ability to enhance engineering workflows through Python automation and data analysis tools. Proficient in Lean Manufacturing and Statistical Process Control (SPC), backed by international research experience and hands-on exposure in industrial settings. Eager to leverage a unique 'Design-to-Production' mindset within high-performance R&D or advanced manufacturing environments.
Overview
1
1
years of professional experience
8
8
Certifications
Work History
Research Intern
LARCASE Laboratory (ÉTS)
Montréal, Quebec, Canada
08.2025 - 12.2025
- Validated mesh models and simulation fidelity by conducting a Mesh Independence Study using the Grid Convergence Index (GCI) method for discretization-error estimation; aligned solver set-up standards with established aerodynamic literature to minimize numerical uncertainty in the final deliverables.
- Generated a high-density aerodynamic database intended for Multidisciplinary Design Optimization MDO of the UAS-S45 platform; utilized Altair FlightStream software to execute batch simulations and characterize full-envelope aerodynamic performance.
- Automated simulation workflows by architecting and adapting Python scripts; focused on logic optimization, debugging, and integrating code to accelerate data acquisition and ensure statistical coverage of the design space.
Process Engineer Intern
Industria de Turbo Propulsores (ITP Aero)
Querétaro, Querétaro, Mexico
04.2025 - 08.2025
- Collaborated on Root Cause Analysis for Non-Conforming Parts (NCPs) by correlating defect maps with manufacturing parameters; supported technical concessions and traceability documentation to reduce Cost of Poor Quality (COPQ) in post-cast processing of aeronautical products.
- Utilized Statistical Process Control (SPC) and Measurement System Analysis (MSA/Gage R&R) to verify equipment capability and ensure compliance with internal, industrial and/or client quality standards.
- Standardized manual finishing operations by developing and deploying comprehensive Visual Aids and Standard Work Instructions; conducted operator training on rotary tool usage and work operative to minimize process variability and rework rates.
- Monitored and analyzed Process KPIs (Scrap/Rework Rates, Efficiency, Tackt Times) via visual dashboards; applied Lean Manufacturing principles (5S, Work Measurement, Housekeeping, Time and Motion) and continuous improvement methodologies to resolve shop floor bottlenecks and optimize workflow.
Aerostructures Team Member
Space Dragons Rocketry
Queretaro, Queretaro, Mexico
01.2024 - 03.2025
- Collaborated in the aerodynamic design optimization of the "Balam" high-power rocket by conducting CFD simulations in ANSYS Fluent; estimated drag coefficients and pressure distribution across varying geometries using CAD modeling to maximize apogee efficiency.
- Fabricated composite aerostructures (Carbon Fiber/Fiberglass) utilizing hand lay-up and vacuum bagging techniques; executed CNC/CAM programming for mold machining.
- Developed and validated 6-DOF flight trajectory simulations to predict apogee (Target: 10,000 ft) and stability margins (>2.0 cal.
- Collaborated within a multidisciplinary engineering team through the full product lifecycle, from conceptual Design of Experiments (DoE) and procurement of raw materials to the successful manufacturing and launch of a High-Power Amateur Model Rocket.
Education
Aeronautical Engineering Bachelor - Manufacturing
Universidad Aeronáutica En Querétaro (UNAQ)
Colón, Querétaro, México12.2025
Fullbright Entrepreneurship & Sustainability Program -
University of California Santa Cruz (UCSC)
Santa Cruz, California, USA11.2023
High School Diploma -
Lycée Marcelin Berthelot
Châtellerault, Nouvelle–Aquitaine, France07.2019
Skills
- Process & Quality: Lean Manufacturing, Statistical Process Control (SPC), AMEF, Root Cause Analysis (RCA)- Pareto Histograms, Measurement System Analysis (MSA/Gage R&R), Teamcenter, NDT Normative for Aeronautical Components
- Aerodynamics & Simulation: ANSYS Fluent, ANSYS Mechanical, Aerodynamic Simulation (CFD), Finite Element Analysis (FEA), Altair FlightStream, XFLR5, CFD Validation
- Design & Manufacturing: CATIA V5, SolidWorks, Autodesk Fusion 360, Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing (GD&T), CAM/CNC Programming, Additive Manufacturing, Lean Six Sigma, CAD Assembly, Inventory, Composite Materials Manufacturing,
- Programming & Data: Python (Pandas, NumPy, Automation Scripting), MATLAB, Sampling, KPI's Dashboards, MS Excel (Advanced Data Analysis/Macros)
Certification
- Google Data Analysis | Google Careers
- Hackathon STEM+SW | Gobierno de Querétaro
- Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt | Lean Six Sigma Institute
- Certified SOLIDWORKS Professional/Associate (CSWP/CSWA) | Dassault Systèmes
- Additive Manufacturing Associate | Dassault Systèmes
- Project Initiation and Planning | University of California, Irvine
- Tripoli Rocketry Association – Level 1
LANGUAGES
Spanish
Bilingual or Proficient (C2)
English
Upper intermediate (B2)
French
Upper intermediate (B2)
Timeline
Research Intern
LARCASE Laboratory (ÉTS)
08.2025 - 12.2025
Process Engineer Intern
Industria de Turbo Propulsores (ITP Aero)
04.2025 - 08.2025
Aerostructures Team Member
Space Dragons Rocketry
01.2024 - 03.2025
Aeronautical Engineering Bachelor - Manufacturing
Universidad Aeronáutica En Querétaro (UNAQ)
Fullbright Entrepreneurship & Sustainability Program -
University of California Santa Cruz (UCSC)
High School Diploma -
Lycée Marcelin Berthelot
ACADEMIC PROJECTS
- Generation of a Parametric Aerodynamic Database for the Morphing UAS-S45 using FlightStream
- Fixture design for CNC Machining Time Optimization with Autodesk Fusion 360
- Additive Manufacture with 3D printing: Creative Aeronautical Product Launch Plan
- Pulley Mounting Product Design: Created comprehensive product documentation
- Turbojet Type Reactions Propellent Device: Built the conceptual design of the different stages of turbojet engine
- High-Pressure Turbine Blade Cooling System: Conducted detailed thermal analysis and reporting using ANSYS Workbench.