David Reyes
About Me
I am a Hispanic immigrant from Guatemala who came to the United States with a clear goal: to become an engineer and build a meaningful career through hard work and persistence. That journey has shaped how I approach challenges, learning, and growth.
I recently completed my Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from Columbia University with a concentration in Robotics and Control, and I hold bachelor’s degrees in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering from the University of Florida, along with a minor in Mathematics. My academic and project experience has given me a strong foundation in mechanical design, system modeling, robotics, and multidisciplinary engineering work.
I enjoy working on complex problems, turning ideas into real systems, and collaborating with teams to develop practical solutions. My experience includes robotics development, aerospace design, embedded systems, and hands-on fabrication, all of which have strengthened my ability to think critically and approach engineering challenges from multiple perspectives.
I am currently seeking opportunities where I can grow as a mechanical engineer, take on meaningful technical challenges, and contribute to innovative engineering work. I am driven by continuous learning, curiosity, and the desire to make a real impact through engineering.
Quick Facts
- Languages: English, Spanish
- Programming: Python, C, SQL, MATLAB
- Engineering Software: SolidWorks (Certified Mechanical Design), AutoCAD, ROS2, Gazebo, RViz2
- Technical Areas: Robotics, Control Systems, State Estimation, SLAM, Sensor Fusion, Embedded Systems
- Hardware & Systems: ESP32, Raspberry Pi, Embedded Sensing, 3D Printing, System Integration
- Currently Learning: Advanced ROS2 Development, Robot Learning, AI/ML for Robotics, PCB Design
- Strengths: Systems Integration, Optimization, Controls Engineering, Research & Prototyping, Leadership
Education
M.S. Mechanical Engineering — Robotics & Control
GPA: 3.27 • Dec 2025
B.S. Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering
Cum Laude • GPA 3.61 • May 2024
Experience
LEGO Group · Nov 2024 – Jan 2026
Delivered a fun, personalized shopping experience by providing expert product advice and gift ideas while keeping the store organized and inviting. Collaborated with my team during events to drive sales and ensure every customer felt welcome.
Columbia University · Sep – Dec 2025
Supported instruction for an graduate Introduction to Robotics course with ~80 students by grading homework, projects, and final technical reports.
Columbia University · Sep – Dec 2025
Contribute to the design and manufacturing of a fully autonomous mobile robot with an integrated robotic arm. Develop CAD models and support fabrication of custom components to ensure structural reliability and system integration. Create software visualizations of the robot model to support testing, debugging, and controls development. Collaborate with the controls team to streamline the integration of algorithms into the physical system.
University of Florida · Jan – May 2024
Collaborated with professor to facilitate an engaging and inclusive learning environment for a Finite Element Analysis class of 61 students.
Southern Scholarship Foundation, George W. Hawksley I House · Aug 2021 – May 2024
Oversaw household cleanliness by organizing and managing 15 rotating cleaning duties. Resolved conflicts among residents, collaborated with seven house officers, and communicated administrative announcements from the Foundation.
Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE), University of Florida · Sep 2020 – May 2024
Selected for the competitive First Year LeaderSHPE Program (FYLP) to support future SHPE leaders. Participated in MentorSHPE for academic and professional guidance. Tutored courses including Calculus I, Linear Algebra, Mechanics of Materials, and CAD. Served as IMs Director, coordinating athletic team events. Remained engaged through regular SHPE meetings and events.
Machine Intelligence Laboratory (MIL), Gainesville, FL · Sep 2021 – Dec 2023
Redesigned over half of the hydrophone subsystem for the team’s autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) to meet strict design specs. Led machining and fabrication processes for RoboSub 2022 tasks. Maintained organized collaboration using GitHub for task tracking and GrabCAD for complete 3D model management.
Southern Scholarship Foundation · May 2022 – Aug 2022, May 2023 – Aug 2023
Supervised maintenance operations across multiple properties, ensuring timely work order completion. Communicated with residents and staff to address concerns and deliver effective resolutions.