Meet AAE student leader Nathaniel Thomas

Name: Nathaniel Thomas

Preferred Name: Nathaniel

Birthplace: Appleton, WI

AAE Major/Minor Concentration: Propulsion/Design

Student Classification: Senior

Best Purdue event or organization that you participated in within AAE?

The Astronaut Reunion through SEDS (Students for the Exploration and Development of Space) was an awesome experience. I had the opportunity to meet 7 of Purdue’s Astronaut Alumni!

Best Purdue event or organization that you participated in outside of AAE?

I enjoy going to the football games to watch the Purdue All-American Marching Band perform their halftime show.

Favorite place on campus:

I enjoy walking around the Engineering Mall early in the morning during the weekend, it is very peaceful.

Favorite class you have taken thus far and why?

Rocket Propulsion. Who doesn’t like controlled explosions?

What is one piece of advice you would give to a potential AAE student?

Learn how to budget your time in order to maintain a successful work life balance.

Who is someone you look up to in the Aero/Astro industry and why?

I look up to my mentor at Boeing. He has worked on multiple defense projects and holds several patents for the company.

What motivates you to succeed?

The fact that one day my contributions could contribute to the defense of the nation or send humans to their next destination in space is what motivates me to succeed.

What is your ultimate career goal?

My ultimate career goal is to work in the Missile Defense Industry and contribute to innovative new capabilities for the Ballistic Missile Defense System.