Mechanical Engineer
& Innovator

Mechanical Engineering student passionate about aerospace technology, robotics and innovative manufacturing Experienced in Rocketry teamwork, and leadership.

CAD Proficiency
Expert in Fusion360, Onshape, CATIA for complex mechanical design and anaylsis projects

About Me

Hello! My name is Akiles Alvarado, and I am currently pursuing a degree in Mechanical Engineering. I grew up in Diamond Bar, California, where my fascination with engineering began—disassembling old toys and experimenting with how things work, often inspired by YouTubers like Mark Rober and kurzgesagt.

Today, I channel that curiosity and creativity into designing and building engineering projects, from robotics to mechanical systems. I’m always eager to learn, collaborate, and take on new challenges. You can explore some of my work here, and I look forward to connecting with you!

3D Printing Expert
Advanced knowledge in additive manufacturing, prototyping for rapid product development

Design Focus
Specialized in systems design, brainstorming and hands on experience with on site testing

Featured Projects
explore my portfolio of engineering projects, from aerospace components to innovative manufacturing solutions

Mt. Sac Rocket Team

Designed and launched an ~8,000 ft rocket with a custom water-expulsion payload system, earning Level 1 certification.

FIRST Robotics

Served as fabrication lead, judge, and referee. Taught high school students basic manufacturing and developed complex competition robots

Make Able Challange

Designed and 3D-printed a custom wheelchair for a paralyzed dog, earning recognition on Autodesk’s website and awards for best software and printing use.

Inmoov Robot

I co-built two InMoov robots, teaching Arduino, motor control, CAD, and 3D printing to bring their moving arms and audio to life.

JPL Invention Challenge

Led a 13-member team in machining and fabrication, placing 10th regionally and advancing to finals at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory.

CAD Portfolio

My primary CAD software is Fusion 360 and AutoCAD, and I am also proficient in Onshape and CATIA.

Experience & Education

Experience

Project Manager/Presenter

NASA Community College Aerospace Scholars

Developed a mock lunar landing plan aligned with NASA's Artemis mission objectives. Managed project timelines and coordinated daily meetings over 7 days during school semester. Presented findings to a panel of NASA employees and received a top score.

Structure Member/Designer

Mt Sac Competition Rocket Team

Designed and manufactured rockets reaching ~8,000 ft with H283ST-SA motor for Level 1 certification. Built and launched rocket flights with supervised testing and recovery procedures. Designed water-expulsion payload system releasing 1L of water at apogee.

Fabrication Lead, Mentor

FIRST Robotics Competition Team

Operated in competition pit supporting robot performance through repair, adjustment and calibration. Mentored underclassmen in fabrication, building leadership and problem-solving skills. Organized team bonding events and workshops. Volunteered as a judge and referee.

Education & Awards

B.S. Mechanical Engineering

Mt. San Antonio College

Coursework: Differential Equations, Physics E&M, Linear Algebra, Statics, MATLAB, Welding

Activities: Judge & Referee for FIRST Robotics, MtSac Rocketry Team, Mt Sac Engineering Club

Awards & Recognitions

Best Use of 3D printing-Makeable
Best use of Autodesk-Makeable
L1 High-power Rocket Certification

Mechanical Engineer & Innovator

Mechanical Engineering student passionate about aerospace technology, robotics and innovative manufacturing Experienced in Rocketry teamwork, and leadership.

CAD Proficiency Expert in Fusion360, Onshape, CATIA for complex mechanical design and anaylsis projects