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Sawyer Brooks
Robotics Software Engineer
Professional Background
Sawyer Brooks is a talented and dedicated Robotics Engineer who currently plays a pivotal role on the Mars 2020 Sampling and Caching team. This project is part of NASA's Perseverance mission, where the sampling system is recognized as one of the most sophisticated robotic systems ever designed and deployed beyond Earth's atmosphere. Sawyer has contributed to this remarkable project for several years, engaging in various capacities that focus on robotics software and systems engineering. His work has taken the Perseverance sampling system from initial prototypes all the way to its operational flight hardware, showcasing his ability to handle complex engineering challenges effectively.
One of Sawyer's areas of specialty on the Mars 2020 mission is the docking operation. This critical procedure involves the intricate maneuvering of the Perseverance rover's robotic arm to align perfectly with the sophisticated caching assembly. The goal is to successfully deposit rock samples gathered from the Martian surface, which provides invaluable data for scientists on Earth. His expertise in this area has been instrumental to the success of the mission, and he continues to be an essential contributor to ongoing efforts in robotics and space exploration.
Education and Achievements
Sawyer's educational background is as impressive as his professional endeavors. He earned his Master of Science in Engineering (M.S.E) with a concentration in Robotics from the prestigious University of Pennsylvania, graduating in May 2015. His experience in graduate school was rich and multifaceted, providing him not only with technical knowledge but also hands-on experience in robotics programming, mechanical design, mechatronic systems, and project management.
Prior to his master's degree, Sawyer completed his Bachelor of Science in Engineering (B.S.E) in Mechanical Engineering and Applied Mechanics at the same esteemed institution, graduating in May 2014. His undergraduate studies culminated in a significant achievement: the design and construction of a solar-powered autonomous boat intended for ocean research and exploration. This project not only demonstrated his engineering skills but also his commitment to sustainable technology and innovation.
Career Journey
Sawyer's journey in the field of engineering began with several impactful roles that laid the foundation for his career in robotics. Early on, he served as a Teaching Assistant in Mechanical Engineering at the University of Pennsylvania, where he honed his ability to communicate complex concepts effectively while mentoring aspiring engineers. He also participated in the Jacob M. Abel Summer Internship at the University of Pennsylvania, which offered him invaluable exposure to the practical applications of his coursework.
He further broadened his expertise through an internship as a Systems Engineering, Integration, and Test intern at iRobot, where he gained insights into robotics through practical application. This experience propelled him towards his current prestigious role at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), where Sawyer now thrives as a Robotics Software Engineer.
In addition to his current endeavor, he also completed a Software Engineering Internship at The Waterford Institute, where he began to cultivate his skills in software development and integration. Each of these positions has equipped Sawyer with the diverse skill set necessary to excel in the highly specialized field of robotics engineering.
Achievements
Sawyer Brooks is undeniably a figure of inspiration in the world of robotics and aerospace engineering. His involvement in the Mars 2020 mission places him among a select group of professionals working at the frontier of technology and space exploration. With expertise in complex systems such as the Perseverance rover's sampling and caching system, his contributions highlight the importance of teamwork and innovation in achieving monumental goals.
Not only has Sawyer demonstrated exceptional technical abilities, but he has also shown remarkable project management skills that are critical in bringing large-scale projects to fruition. His professional journey reflects dedication, passion, and a commitment to pushing the boundaries of science and technology, making him a prominent figure in the robotics engineering community.
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