David Hightower Jr
Denver
Summary
Mechanical engineering professional recognized for applying technical skills and analytical mindset to create efficient solutions. Adept at design, testing, and implementation of mechanical systems, contributing to significant project advancements. Known for collaborative approach and commitment to achieving team goals, with versatile skill set that adapts to evolving project requirements.
Overview
5
5
years of professional experience
Work History
Mechanical Engineer
Lockheed Martin, Space Systems
05.2025 - Current
- PSOC Directorate October 2025 Employee Of The Month
- Conducted root cause analysis to identify and resolve system failures.
- Designed mechanical systems for efficiency and reliability in product development.
- Certified Principal Engineer (CPE) Delegate for SAA Commodity
- Independently developed mechanical design solutions to move commodity through requalification and FAI into first successful SAA production run in 13 years.
- Performed historical flight test analysis of all actuators ever flown in the 60+ year lifecycle of the FBM program.
Mechanical Engineer Asc
Lockheed Martin, Space Systems
07.2023 - 05.2025
- Ensured the sustainment of the existing and future FBM Trident II D5 deployed fleet through Structures and/or Controls Engineering efforts.
- Completed reshaping of the SAA Repair Program, proactively identifying and mitigating significant risks to program execution, including obsolescence of repair parts, and ensuring seamless operation of the FBM SAA Repair Program.
- Led a large-scale investigation and analysis on obsolescent specifications to prevent system-wide schedule and cost delays of upwards of $500,000 for the program.
- Shaped the future of the program through digital transformation, proposal development, and model-based engineering initiatives.
- PBT Onboarding Presentation Lead: tasked with streamlining and facilitating the LM New Employee introduction process in FY 24.
- Awarded back-to-back elite performance incentives for work completed and problems solved.
Locker Room Attendant
Denver Nuggets
01.2021 - Current
- Collaborated with the operations team to track inventory, and assist in the maintenance of training and game equipment.
- Demonstrated professionalism and teamwork while maintaining a high level of confidentiality and respect for team operations.
- Monitored and ensured the cleanliness and readiness of locker rooms and team facilities, contributing to a professional and welcoming atmosphere for players and staff.
- Provided on-the-spot support to players and coaching staff by delivering water, towels, and other essential items during games and practices.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Aerospace Engineering
University of Colorado At Boulder
Boulder, CO05-2023
Skills
- MathWorks MATLAB
- Product development
- Risk management
- Failure analysis
- Cost estimation
- Scheduling
- Root-cause analysis
- SAP
- Technical documentation
- Design optimization
- Written and verbal communication skills
- Statistical analysis
Affiliations
- Owner of Ota Co LLC - Since April 2024
Timeline
Mechanical Engineer
Lockheed Martin, Space Systems
05.2025 - Current
Mechanical Engineer Asc
Lockheed Martin, Space Systems
07.2023 - 05.2025
Locker Room Attendant
Denver Nuggets
01.2021 - Current
Bachelor of Science - Aerospace Engineering
University of Colorado At Boulder
Education and Training
CU Hyperloop - The Boring Company - Structures Team Lead
Boulder, CO • Sept 2021 - Apr 2023
- Mechanical Lead for Structures development and construction team
- Designed Hyperloop Pod structure in SolidWorks and CAD with implications in ANSYS FEA software to fit requirements for 6 other subteams
- Hyperloop Pod created for feasible manufacturability with time and budget constraints