Peruvian engineer Daniel Velásquez advances electric aircraft testing at NASA

Daniel Velásquez, a Peruvian-born engineer, now works at NASA's Armstrong Flight Research Center in California. He develops flight tests for electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft, focusing on their performance during various flight phases. Velásquez began his NASA career in 2021 as a Pathways intern while studying aerospace engineering at Rutgers University. He also serves as a first sergeant in the U.S. Army Reserve, where he trains soldiers. He credits his success to his parents' sacrifices for better opportunities. Velásquez expresses pride in his Latin heritage and the chance to work with dedicated professionals at NASA.