Piasecki Aircraft Internship

June–August 2026

I performed finite element analysis (FEA) on multiple aircraft subsystems in SolidWorks to analyze the displacement and stress on components under aircraft in-flight loads for one of Piasecki’s programs. I analyzed the vehicle’s booms, struts, and cargo attachment structures. I provided feedback and assisted in the design revision process when parts failed under the required ultimate or fatigue loads. I also performed research on resins and adhesives for attaching the blades to the aircraft and participated directly in the blades’ assembly.

I designed, ran trade studies on, and created a proposal for a vertical takeoff and landing aircraft with a hybrid-electric power system to deliver medical supplies to injured soldiers on the battlefield. I created concept sketches, examined 128 different flight profiles to size the hybrid-electric power system, and used data from Advanced Rotorcraft Technology’s FLIGHTLAB software to analyze climb and cruise energy consumption. I also helped perform FEA on rotor hub designs to assist in material selection. I then pitched these concepts, along with potentially patentable design features, to other local aerospace companies.

I helped design a blade-element model for high-performance ducted fans in Python to calculate the required motor torque and thrust to maintain a steady hover. I also served on the ground crew for several vehicle tests as the fire captain. I participated in preflight safety checks while powering on and preparing the vehicle. I also monitored the vehicle in flight and recorded any observations to share with the flight crew afterward.

I assisted the University of Hartford’s team for the 2026 Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) Lift Challenge in component machining, fuel tank holder design, and blade construction, as well as vehicle assembly and testing. Their design featured two large rotor blades with servos independently controlling the blade pitch. They used two small propellers, one on each rotor blade, to spin the rotor in a low-torque design.

Because of a non-disclosure agreement (NDA), I am unable to share further details or photos from these projects at my internship.