Jacob Mesley

Florida Institute of Technology '24

BS Aerospace Engineering Student

Physics Minor

Hello! 

I'm Jake, and I'm currently a Senior at Florida Tech studying Aerospace Engineering and Physics. This website is a showcase of all of my experiences. Please feel free to reach out if you'd like to know more.

Email: jmesley2020@my.fit.edu

  jacobmesley@gmail.com

Phone: (207) 289-5150

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacob-mesley/

Relevant Work Experience

Satellite Systems Engineering Intern - Space Dynamics Laboratory - UNP MC-1 Program

May 2023 - July 2023 Albuquerque, NM - USA

This was a summer program that guided students through the development of a CubeSat mission concept. We learned how to create mission statements, objectives, requirements, budgets, and major review documents. As a part of this program, we received mentorship from members of the Space Dynamics Laboratory, UNP, NASA, and the Air Force Research Lab.


Research Assistant, SPACE Lab - Aerospace, Physics, and Space Sciences Department

May 2023 - Present           Melbourne, FL - USA

As a research assistant in the Space exPloration And spaceCraft Engineering Laboratory (SPACE Lab) at Florida Tech, I work closely with Dr. Paula do Vale Pereira on space systems, spacecraft engineering, and space exploration projects. Notably, I helped with simulation and calculation on the research "Preliminary Modeling of Non-trackable Debris Collection Using a Passive Layered System" and am currently involved in developing a CubeSat mission concept for observing Earth's desert regions.


Tutoring - Florida Institute of Technology

Aug. 2023 - Present Melbourne, FL - USA

Manager: Kawanda Rembert

At the Florida Tech Student Success and Support Center, I provide tutoring for the following six classes: 

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Aerospace Engineering - Florida Institute of Technology

August 2020 - May 2024 (Expected)                                                        GPA: 3.77 / 4.0

Advisor: Prof. Daniel Kirk

Minor: Physics 

Projects

Rocket Engine Test Stand - Personal Project

Jan 2022 - May 2023 Melbourne, FL - USA

A custom thrust stand with the capacity to measure up to 20kg of force horizontally. Wireless controls, data storage, and customs Printed Circut Boards (PCBs) were all designed and based around the Arduino microcontroller.

Florida Tech Rocketry  - Recovery Subsystem Lead

Aug. 2022 - May 2023 Melbourne, FL - USA

Lead the development of an ejection charge for a rocket with a target altitude of 10,000 feet. Oversaw creation of procedures for manufacturing of the charges and for parachute packing to ensure safe decent.

Satellite Tracking Telescope  - Personal Project

Sept. 2022 - Present Melbourne, FL - USA

Motorized a commercial telescope and programmed software to track satellites across the night sky. Designed Printed Circuit Boards (PCB) and custom motor mounts.

Mobile Engine Testing Application (META)  - Senior Design Team Volunteer

Sept. 2021 - May 2022 Melbourne, FL - USA

Designed an adaptor that mates a liquid rocket engine to its thrust stand. Went through multiple iterations, and saw the design through from initial concept to analysis to manufacturing.

Memberships and Conferences Attended



American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) - Treasurer

Membership: Aug. 2020 - PresentTreasurer: April 2022 - Jan.2024

Manage fund disbursement and collection for Florida Tech's AIAA student chapter. Responsible for item orders, conference funding and planning, collection of membership dues, fundraising, and ensuring the student chapter remains within good financial standing.

AIAA SciTech Forum and Exposition

Role: Presenter, Student Attendee Jan. 2024       Orlando, FL - USA

Research Presented: MECO: Mission concept dEvelopment of a CubeSat for lunar Observation.

Small Satellite Conference

Role: Student Attendee Aug. 2023 Logan, UT - USA

Listened to presenters from across the world speak about current research, past missions, and lessons learned from small satellites. 

2023 Region II AIAA Student Conference (AIAA)

Role: Student Attendee March. 2023 Knoxville, TN - USA

Supported presenters from Florida Tech and other Region II Universities. While at the conference, students received a tour of Oak Ridge National Labs.

2022 Region II AIAA Student Conference (AIAA)

Role: Presenter, Student Attendee March. 2022 Atlanta, GA - USA

Category: Open Topic.

Research Presented: Physics and Applications of Artificial Gravity Through Centrifugal Acceleration.

While at the conference, students received a tour of the Hermeus Facility.

Certifications

Machine Shop Certification - Florida Institute of Technology

2022 Melbourne, FL - USA

Training to operate manual Mills, Lathes, and Band Saws. Must also demonstrate common machine shop safety practices and etiquette.

High Power Rocketry Level 1 Certification - National Association of Rocketry (NAR)

2023 Melbourne, FL - USA

Successfully built, flew, and recovered a model rocket with an H or I class motor.

Laser Cutter Certification - Florida Institute of Technology

2022 Melbourne, FL - USA

Training to operate Florida Tech's Harris Student Design Center's laser cutter.