We bring a treasure trove of diverse expertise to the rocket lab! Our team combines experience across a variety of industries, including tech startups, rocketry, consulting, medical device design, finance, astronomy, and intelligence.
Our mission is simple: to share our knowledge and excitement about the universe with you in a fun, authentic, and engaging way. Whether you are a curious learner or a seasoned pro, we are here to make the journey to stars as straight forward as physics allows!
Gary Charles Fussell
Team Lead
With an education in business, biology, and astronomy, he bring a big picture view to the team.
Industry:
Finance
Education:
– Embry- Riddle Aeronautical University (2020)
Bachelor of Science – Global Business and Supply Chain Management with a minor in Wildlife Science
– Arizona State University (2023)
Bachelor of Science – Astronomical and Planetary Science
Research/Projects:
– Exoplanet Research Experience (2023):
Using a 6-inch diameter Newtonian Telescope to refine light curve data for HAT P-54b. Read More Here
– NASA’s Big Idea Challenge (2019 – 2020):
Development of a prototype lunar rover to explore water deposits near the Moons south pole. Read More Here
– NASA’s Big Idea Challenge (2017 – 2018):
Development design plans for a greenhouse for the Martian surface.
Volunteer/Outreach:
Solar System Ambassador – NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory (Current): A volunteer educator.
Sarah E. Wattenberg
Engineer
An engineer by trade, she brings meticulous insights and a detail-oriented mind to the research team.
Industry:
Medical Devices
Education:
– California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo (2019)
Bachelor’s Degree – Materials Engineering
Research/Projects:
– Investigation of NARloy-Z Yield Strength in Response to Changes in Ingot Processing and Heat Treatment (2017-2028): Read More Here
Volunteer/Outreach:
Treasure – Flagstaff Community Band: A volunteer educator.
Thomas P.
Scientist
With a passion for education and a background in information systems, he brings scientific expertise to enhance learning and research.
Industry:
Global Information Science
Education:
-Embry- Riddle Aeronautical University (2019)
Bachelor of Science – Global Security and Intelligence Studies
– Northern Arizona University (2023)
Master of Science – Geographic Information Science with Remote Sensing
Thomas M. Rapp
Engineer
As a software engineer, he combines technical expertise with innovative problem-solving skills to drive impactful solutions for the team.
Industry:
Consulting
Education:
– Embry- Riddle Aeronautical University (2020)
Bachelor of Science – Computer Software Engineering
Dark Works Space Labs 