Andrew Mitchell

Professional Background

Andrew Mitchell is an accomplished systems engineer currently making significant contributions to the Power Systems Engineering Group (3466) at NASA's prestigious Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL). His expertise lies notably in spacecraft electrical power systems, avionics, and the operations of various high-stakes projects within the realm of space exploration. With a strong focus on the MSL (Mars Science Laboratory) Curiosity rover, Andrew plays an essential role in the rover's operations, making sure its systems function flawlessly during its daring missions on the Martian surface. Furthermore, he is engaged in cutting-edge projects such as NISAR (NASA-Indian Space Research Organisation Synthetic Aperture Radar) power flight and instrument systems as well as the power system for the Asteroid Redirect Mission (ARRM).

With his extensive background in electrical power systems and avionics, Andrew has established a notable career at JPL. As a Systems Engineer III, he is not only responsible for system design and operations but also excels in requirements writing, schematics capture, and ground systems testing, ensuring that all components of spacecraft function in harmony. His skills further extend to the troubleshooting of electronics and PID control, rendering him a vital asset to the projects he undertakes.

His career trajectory illustrates a consistent and progressive climb through the aerospace engineering field, wide-ranging experience that reflects not only his technical expertise but also his commitment to excellence in spacecraft operations and engineering.

Education and Achievements

Andrew Mitchell acquired his Bachelor of Science in Engineering (BSE) with a concentration in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Michigan, a notable institution recognized for its rigorous programs and its contributions to engineering innovation. This solid educational foundation equipped him with the theoretical knowledge and practical skill set necessary to thrive in the demanding field of aerospace systems engineering.

Throughout his tenure at JPL and in prior roles, Andrew has gained substantial experience by working with different organizations and holding various engineering positions that have contributed to his specialized expertise. Notably, before joining NASA's JPL, Andrew functioned as an Avionics-Electrical Engineer for Moon Express. In this role, he was instrumental in supporting the design and testing of spacecraft systems essential for lunar missions, further solidifying his standing in the engineering community.

Furthermore, Andrew has honed his skills in electronics and power systems as both an Electronics and Power System Engineer at the University of Michigan. His foundational roles involved vital responsibilities that allowed him to advance his understanding of electrical systems, which he now applies to his crucial contributions at JPL.

Achievements

Andrew Mitchell's career is distinguished by a number of remarkable achievements and contributions to the field of aerospace engineering. His work on the MSL Curiosity rover operations is particularly noteworthy, showcasing his ability to manage high-stakes systems that play critical roles in space exploration. His involvement in projects such as NISAR and ARRM underlines his dedication to pushing the boundaries of what is possible in space technology.

In addition to his technical skills, Andrew's experience in requirements writing and ground systems testing places him at the forefront of developing successful spacecraft systems and operations. His ability to troubleshoot complex electronics and implement PID control mechanisms is a testament to his engineering capabilities, reflecting a keen understanding of both theoretical and practical aspects of space technology. This diverse skill set makes him not only a systems engineer but also an innovator in the continuous improvement of spacecraft capabilities.

Throughout his career journey, Andrew has continually embraced the challenges of his roles and has consistently delivered outstanding results, whether in cutting-edge projects at JPL or collaborative endeavors with other aerospace organizations. His commitment to teamwork, passion for engineering, and pursuit of excellence contribute to the success of the missions he is involved with, addressing some of the most profound questions we have about our universe.

Achievements