Meet Elio Morillo | Space Systems Engineer & Author

We had the good fortune of connecting with Elio Morillo and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Elio, is there something you believe many others might not?
The idea that ‘hard work speaks for itself’ is a common misconception. In reality, hard work is a fundamental component of success, but it must be coupled with effective communication and networking. Visibility is key. In my career, I’ve seen many talented individuals go unnoticed because they didn’t advocate for themselves or their projects. It’s happened to me – its advice I would share with my 22-year-old self: It’s vital to share your progress, seek feedback, and build relationships within your industry. This approach not only elevates your work but also opens doors to new opportunities and collaborations. It’s not just about what you do; it’s also about who knows what you do and the impact it makes. So, make your hard work known—speak about it, write about it, post about it, and let it echo through your professional community.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My career trajectory is a testament to the idea that where you start does not determine where you can go. Born into the vibrant classrooms of Ecuador, raised amidst the cultural mosaic of New York City and Puerto Rico, my journey has been anything but ordinary. My distinctive background has infused me with a profound appreciation for diversity, driving innovation in aerospace engineering.

I’m deeply proud of contributing to NASA-JPL’s Mars 2020 mission and to Blue Origin’s lunar ambitions with Blue Moon MK-1. My career milestones have been both enriching and humbling, each forging me into the professional I am today.

My academic commitment at the University of Michigan, combined with hands-on experiences at GE Aviation, SpaceX, and Boeing, was pivotal. I secured these internships through student career fairs, with my relentless focus on academic excellence bolstering my resume and interviewing prowess. The Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers played a significant role, enhancing my professional and leadership skills through mentorship and workshops.

Joining NASA-JPL was a breakthrough moment, initiated by connections made at the SHPE national convention in 2015. The subsequent opportunity to work on the Mars 2020 project was a dream turned reality, where I led engineering operations and contributed to the Ingenuity Helicopter’s historic flight—a moment of personal pride as I orchestrated the sequence that initiated its maiden voyage.

The path was strewn with obstacles: financial constraints, cultural challenges, and the dichotomy of my origins against my professional landscape. I bridged these worlds by embracing my community, seeking mentorship, and translating hard work into tangible outcomes.

The key lessons I’ve assimilated include the equalizing force of education and the transformative power of mentorship. My evolution from learner to leader encapsulates the essence of my personal brand—resilience, an insatiable quest for knowledge, and a commitment to inclusivity in space exploration. I share my story to resonate with, inspire, and pave the way for future first-generation students and immigrants aspiring to leave an indelible imprint on the cosmos.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend was visiting LA, I’d want them to get a bit of everything that defines my love for this place. Here’s a glimpse of what we could explore, keeping options flexible to match our mood and the day’s vibe:

Historic Vibes and Food: Start with a leisurely stroll through Old Town Pasadena and Highland Park, perfect for catching up, soaking in the ambiance, and enjoying some great meals.

Culinary Adventures: Sundays are for Smorgasburg, where we’d dive into LA’s eclectic food scene. We’d also hit up iconic spots for dim sum in Alhambra or Chinatown, savor revolving sushi in Little Tokyo, and indulge in Korean BBQ in Koreatown. And of course, we can’t miss out on the diverse taco spots like Arturo’s and El Momo.

Brunch and Books: Enjoy a crazy brunch at Bacari or laid-back El Huarachito in Lincoln Heights, then browse the shelves at The Libros Lincoln Heights for some literary gems.

Beach and Surfing: Catch some waves at Venice Beach, followed by delicious Peruvian food at El Huarique. A perfect blend of action and relaxation.

Cultural Evenings: Experience LA’s vibrant nightlife with karaoke in Koreatown, jazz nights at LACMA, and perhaps a comedy show at one of the city’s legendary venues.

Sports and Entertainment: Depending on the season, we could catch a Lakers, Dodgers, or LAFC game to experience the thrill of LA sports live.

Dance the Night Away: With LA’s rich Latin dance scene, we’d hit spots like La Granada and La Descarga, dancing to salsa and bachata till the wee hours.

Outdoor Escapes: For some nature, we’d explore hikes like the Beaudry Loop, Debbs Park, Echo Mountain, and the serene trails in Malibu, each offering stunning views and a refreshing break from the urban hustle.

Special Experiences: I could arrange a tour at NASA JPL, providing a unique glimpse into space exploration, peppered with personal insights and fun facts.

Theme Park Fun: With Disneyland and Universal Studios nearby, we’d have the option to immerse ourselves in the magic of theme parks, if that’s your thing.

The plan would be to weave through these experiences, balancing between exploration, relaxation, and sheer fun, ensuring each day is filled with new adventures and lasting memories.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
There are so many to whom I owe a debt of gratitude. First and foremost, I dedicate my shoutout to my mother, whose unwavering love and belief in me provided the bedrock for my aspirations. Her sacrifices and resilience in the face of adversity are the silent engine behind my achievements. She raised me as a single mother immigrant who gave up her career as a teacher to make ends meet despite the language barrier.

Additionally, I must recognize the community of mentors and educators who shaped my path—especially my teachers and professors who pushed the boundaries of my capabilities and fueled my passion for spacecraft engineering. Along with friends and chosen family, my academic communities have provided a safety net that I didn’t have in my upbringing.

The organizations that foster diversity in STEM, particularly the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers. They’ve not only been a source of inspiration but also platforms for familia, growth, and development.

Lastly, the books and stories of early space pioneers have been my constant companions, reminding me of the relentless human spirit and the collective endeavor science truly is.

All these elements deserve credit in the mosaic of my story.

Website: thespacemechanic.com

Instagram: @thespacemechanic

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eliomorillo/

Facebook: @thespacemechanic

Youtube: @thespacemechanic

Image Credits
@thespacemechanic