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Fernando Suarez
Austin, TX | fpatricksuarez@gmail.com | 240-252-8914 | Linkedin.com/in/fernando-suarez-0a8062214
Experience
Mechanical Engineer I to III (Simulation & Systems Architecture)
- Simulation Pipeline & Kinematics Validation: Architected data processing pipelines to validate humanoid robotic architecture prior to physical builds. Designed and hosted a GUI-driven analytics application that parses 151-column CSV time-series logs from Isaac Sim, extracting load cases, wrenches, and power consumption to create a rapid iteration loop for the mechanical design team.
- Hardware-to-Software Bridge (CAD to URDF): Proactively identified a critical workflow gap and took ownership of the CAD-to-URDF pipeline. Managed the generation, upgrading, and post-processing of URDFs from complex CAD assemblies, establishing the foundational architecture required for reinforcement learning and policy training.
- Automated Tooling & AI-Augmented Workflows: Leveraged advanced LLMs and custom agentic frameworks to rapidly scaffold production-level software. Developed an automated Python tool utilizing the Siemens NX API to convert simulation-generated URDFs directly into poseable master models, navigating sparse documentation to unblock the entire Apollo 3 hardware team.
- Hardware Leadership (Apollo 2 Arm & Bipedal Prototype): Directed the complete Apollo 2 Arm subsystem from concept through CDR, managing a cross-functional team and pioneering a streamlined rotary design that dramatically increased mechanical reliability. Fast-tracked a highly complex bipedal prototype pelvis module from PDR to completion, tightly packaging four actuators for HPDC manufacturing.
- Fleet-Scale Integration & Thermal Resolution: Resolved critical thermal throttling (Wi-Fi/Neo PC hitting 108°C) by deploying a hybrid CNC-machined metal heat spreader, eliminating structural fatigue cracks and directly enabling the deployment of a commercial-scale humanoid robot fleet used for active data collection.
Research Associate
- Utilized 3D modeling to design and upgrade electromechanical products composed of hundreds of machined parts, complex wire assemblies, and tube runs.
- Created rigorous technical drawings using ASME Y14.5 GD&T standards, leading cross-functional design reviews to assess machinability and system integration.
Baja Project Leader
- Designed a highly optimized 40+ part gearbox, tailoring components for specific manufacturing processes including CNC Mill, CNC Lathe, Hobbing, and EDM.
- Executed advanced FEA on dynamic components to optimize weight distribution, yielding a 2.5lb reduction over previous iterations while maintaining structural integrity.
Education
University of Maryland, College Park, MD — Mechanical Engineering, 3.5 GPA (Dean’s List)
Aug. 2020 – May 2023
Montgomery Community College, Rockville, MD — Transferred 60 Credits, 3.97 GPA
Aug. 2018 – May 2019
Skills
- Simulation & Software Architecture: Isaac Sim, CAD-to-URDF Workflows, Python, Siemens NX API, LLM/Agentic Frameworks, Kinematics Data Analysis, Reinforcement Learning Context.
- Mechanical Engineering & CAD: Solidworks, Inventor, Fusion 360, Onshape, Creo, GD&T, FEA, Surface Modeling, Electromechanical Packaging.
- Manufacturing & Prototyping: 3D Printing, Laser Cutting, Mill, Lathe, CNC Lathe, Water Jet, Sheet Metal Modeling, Fastener Design.