Embark on a journey into the future of space exploration. Delve into the vision for NASA Artemis missions and the Space Launch System (SLS), including the intricacies of the SLS core stage and exploration upper stage built by Boeing. Gain insights into some fundamentals of rocketry and discover the rigorous testing and verification processes that ensure system reliability. However, the pursuit of an inspiring vision is not without its challenges. Learn about the framework employed to solve complex problems and investigate root causes, enabling teams to overcome obstacles and achieve remarkable breakthroughs. Unveil the possibilities that lie ahead in the realm of space exploration, where innovation and determination propel us towards a future of limitless discovery to the moon and beyond.
About the speaker: Dr. Joseph Fernando Gonzalez was born and raised in the south side of Chicago in the “La Villita” neighborhood. Joseph’s journey from growing up on the South side of Chicago to earning a BS, MS, and PhD in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Illinois Urbana Champaign (UIUC) is a testament to his life-long determination, passion and commitment to excelling in the fields of science, technology, engineering and math.
Joseph joined the Boeing Company in Huntsville, AL where he led the start-up and execution of strategy with the battery characterization and safety test lab, and led other material research projects for the Boeing Research and Technology division. Joseph then went on to lead a team of 10 engineers and technicians in the pneumatic systems integration and acceptance testing on the flight support test equipment for the Space Launch System program, the world's most powerful rocket being built. Simultaneously, Joseph also supported the Boeing Starliner program as a materials engineer working with suppliers, verification, and NASA customer interface. One of Joseph’s coolest positions was lead engineer and manager delegate for the materials production team conducting the full-scale hot fire test of the Space Launch System core stage rocket at the NASA Stennis Space Center. Joseph currently serves as a Systems Integration and Specialty Engineering Manager for the Space Launch System program where he oversees a variety of technical teams working on the core stage and exploration upper stage space vehicles.
Joseph was recognized by the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE) organization as the Professional Promising Engineer of 2018. Additionally, Joseph graduated from the Boeing Leadership Next (LX) program (Class of 2020). Joseph continues to be involved with SHPE through the National Convention committee as the co-chair for the Surveys, Interviews, and Documentations team and as a Deputy officer for Boeing SHPE executive team.
Joseph continues to give back through his mentoring and coaching of undergraduates and professionals yearly. Joseph is married with a daughter and son. In his free time, Joseph enjoys house projects, coaching his kid’s sports teams, and hiking.
