Kevin McWilliams
Systems Engineer
B.S. Aerospace Engineering Sciences (University of Colorado, Boulder); M.S. Aerospace Engineering Sciences (University of Colorado, Boulder)
Industry Experience:
Kevin primarily focused on rocket propulsion during his undergraduate studies, including construction of a large hybrid rocket engine. His interests shifted focus towards advanced structural simulation and modeling during his graduate studies. Before joining our BES team, Kevin invested time as an analyst and simulation specialist at GeoMega, an environmental company specializing in groundwater modeling around mining facilities. He also gained experience as a solar design engineer at Cool Energy, Inc., a Boulder-based startup focusing on solar-thermal power systems and Stirling engines. Between his undergraduate and graduate studies, Kevin was an engineer at ATK Thiokol, working on the nozzle hardware for the Space Shuttle Solid Rocket Motors.
Experience and responsibilities with BES:
Kevin is our resident rocket scientist at BES. His main title is Analyst, but he wears many mechanical engineering hats at BES. Kevin’s specialty is simulation and analysis of difficult physics problems, particularly those involving fluid dynamics, heat transfer, and structural dynamics. He’s worked on a variety of projects from simple consumer products to medical devices and high-performance aerospace products. Kevin’s work with simulation and modeling has been crucial for the success of several BES project designs and also in avoiding dead-end or problematic design paths. Kevin is an expert at solving analysis problems including heat transfer and fluids problems, modeling heat exchangers, or cooling systems.
When Kevin isn’t at BES:
Kevin has a variety of extracurricular activities with his main hobby being skydiving. He is an avid jumper and tries to go as often as work and weather permits! Various other outdoor activities available in Colorado also draws his attention. Kevin tries to go skiing as much as possible during the winter and also enjoys climbing, hiking, and camping. When he’s not playing outdoors, Kevin’s like to create LED art, play video games, and hang out with friends.