Suggestions
Tim Pickens
Aerospace Rocket Propulsion Expert in Liquid, Hybrid, Mono-propellant engines, motors, igniters/torches, and small reaction control devices
Tim Pickens is an accomplished entrepreneur, engineer, and educator with over three decades of experience in the aerospace industry. He currently serves as the President and Chief Technical Officer of Pickens Scientific Inc., a role he has held since April 2023. In this position, he is leading the development of advanced propulsion technologies, including a space-rated high voltage exciter for in-space propulsion ignition and vacuum-rated torch igniters for commercial rocket engines.13
Career Overview
-
Pickens Scientific Inc. (April 2023 - Present): As President and CTO, he focuses on innovative propulsion systems.
-
Teledyne Brown Engineering (March 2020 - April 2023): He was a Subject Matter Expert and Chief Engineer for the Hot Air Tunnel program, where he led efforts to create a Mach 6 wind tunnel.
-
Pickens Innovations, Inc. (July 2012 - March 2022): He founded this aerospace company, specializing in hardware and consulting for propulsion systems.
-
Bigelow Aerospace (August 2015 - January 2016): Served as the Propulsion Department Manager, leading a methane hot-fire test program.
-
Moon Express, Inc. (January 2013 - July 2015): Worked as Chief Propulsion Engineer, overseeing propulsion architectures for lunar missions.
-
Dynetics, Inc. (December 2009 - June 2012): Served as Commercial Space Advisor and Chief Propulsion Engineer, expanding the company's commercial space business.
-
Orion Propulsion (2004 - 2009): Founded and grew this aerospace company before selling it to Dynetics.
Education and Recognition
Tim Pickens holds a bachelor's degree in business administration and has been recognized with various awards for his contributions to the aerospace sector, including the Professional of the Year Award from the Huntsville Association of Technical Societies in 2003. He is also known for his engaging speaking style, frequently presenting at conferences on business and space topics.12
His early career included significant contributions to SpaceShipOne, which won the Ansari X Prize, highlighting his long-standing commitment to advancing aerospace technology.2
