Tess Caswell

NASA Academy Research Project:

Development of A Zero-Leak One-Time-Actuating Normally-Closed Valve
Principal Investigator: Eric Cardiff, Code 597

Rebecca A Gillespie Code: 597

• Alaska Space Grant, Student Rocket Project, Mechanical Engineering Student Assistant, 2005-present
• The Boeing Company: Intern, Space Shuttle Environmental Control and Life Support System, Active Thermal Analysis, Summer 2006
• Subway of Fairbanks: Shift Manager (2004)

Skills and Certifications

• Competency in Java, C++, and FORTRAN
• Familiarity with SolidWorks design environment
• Working knowledge of MATLAB
• General competency in machining, including lathes, mills, and casting processes
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications

Honors and Awards

• University of Alaska Fairbanks Chancellor's List
• College of Engineering and Mines Dean's List
• Appointed to the United States Air Force Academy, Class of 2008
• Recipient of the Schlumberger Engineering Scholarship, 2006-07
• Recipient of the Alaska Society of Professional Engineers Scholarship, 2007
• University of Alaska Scholar
• Soldotna High School Class Valedictorian (2004)
• Fourth Place International Finisher, Future Problem Solving Program Scenario Competition (2004)

Memberships and Activities

• President, Society of Women Engineers "Farthest North Chapter," University of Alaska Fairbanks (2006-07)
• Treasurer, Tau Beta Pi Engineering Honor Society (2007-2008)
• Member, Golden Key International Honour Society (2006-present)
• University of Alaska Fairbanks Orientation Leader (Fall 2005-present)
• UAF "Bear" Mascot (2005-present)
• Drummer, UAF Nanook Pep Band (2004-present)
• Hugh O'Brian Youth (HOBY) Leadership Program, Junior Staff Captain and member of the Board of Directors (2003-present).

Hobbies and Interests

Cross-country skiing, Aikido, drumming, reading (particularly sci-fi/fantasy and NASA-related memoirs), drawing, motorcycle riding, HOBY Leadership Seminars, and spending time with my family in beautiful Soldotna, Alaska.

About Me

"Like many children, I wanted to be an astronaut when I was ten years old. Unlike most kids, however, I never 'grew out of it.' I have devoted my life to the study of aerospace engineering and the pursuit of a career supporting the manned exploration of space - I feel that such exploration is a valuable and forward-thinking aspect of our Nation's identity. Whether riding the rocket or designing it, I look forward to contributing to the expansion of human knowledge through the Space Shuttle, International Space Station, and Project Constellation."