Cecilia Russell
About Cecilia Russell
Cecilia Russell is a Test Engineering Co-op at Rocket Lab, where she has worked since 2024. She has a background in mechanical engineering from Yale University and has held various roles in aerospace and engineering, including internships and leadership positions in student organizations.
Work at Rocket Lab
Cecilia Russell currently holds the position of Test Engineering Co-op at Rocket Lab, where she has been employed since 2024. Her role is based in Long Beach, California, and she has been contributing to the team for a duration of eight months. In this position, she is involved in various testing procedures and engineering tasks that support Rocket Lab's mission in the aerospace sector.
Education and Expertise
Cecilia Russell is pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering at Yale University, where she has been enrolled from 2021 to 2025. Her academic background is complemented by hands-on experience in mechatronic projects, including the development of an Automated Spark Igniter for a second-generation engine. She has also gained practical skills through various internships and roles that focus on engineering and design.
Background
Cecilia Russell's educational journey began at DC International School, where she completed her high school education from 2017 to 2021. Following this, she advanced to Yale University, where she has been actively involved in multiple engineering projects and organizations, including the Yale Undergraduate Aerospace Association. Her early experiences also include mentoring roles and internships that have shaped her engineering skills.
Achievements
During her tenure at Yale University, Cecilia Russell contributed to the Yale Project Liquid, where she was involved in high-level engine design, testing, and integration. She also established cleaning and handling procedures for propellant-facing hardware, ensuring compliance with quality and safety standards. Additionally, her work as a math peer tutor helped her develop strong communication and problem-solving skills, further enhancing her capabilities in engineering.
Internship Experience
Cecilia Russell has accumulated diverse internship experiences that have enriched her engineering knowledge. She served as an Engineering Intern at PSC by Rocket Lab in 2023, where she gained insights into aerospace engineering. Additionally, her role as a Projects to Products Design Fellow at Yale University allowed her to apply theoretical knowledge in practical settings. Other internships include a position at Accenture and a laboratory assistant role at the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science.