B.S. in Aerospace Engineering (2025) – Texas A&M University
Gabriel Valencia is a graduate aerospace engineering student from Houston, Texas, specializing in structural analysis and optimization using FEA for in-space applications. As an undergraduate, he was an active member and later Product Owner of the SAE Aero Micro class team, where he contributed to two consecutive first-place finishes. This experience inspired his interest in iterative optimization and design under real-world constraints. As an engineering intern, he gained industry experience developing FAA-compliant engineering drawings in Solidworks to support Parts Manufacturer Approval of aircraft components for 14 CFR Parts 23 and 25. Gabriel is now pursuing graduate studies to deepen his understanding of the finite element method and its application in modern aerospace structures. His current research utilizes Abaqus to design and optimize lightweight lattice structures with potential for aerospace systems.
Current Research Project:
Design and Optimization of a Shape Memory Alloy-Based Deployable Lattice Structure
Experience:
- Aerospace Engineering Intern, Aero Tech Aviation Design LLC (July 2024 – January 2025), Grasslake, MI
- Product Owner, Texas A&M SAE Aero Micro Class (April 2023 – May 2025), College Station, TX