Elliot Schmeling
Elliot R.
Schmeling

About Me

I am a Mechanical Engineering student at Ohio Northern University with a minor in Computer Science. My experience spans electric propulsion research at NASA Glenn, firmware and embedded systems development, and manufacturing process automation. I am passionate about engineering, programming, and learning new skills through hands-on projects.

Education

Ohio Northern University (ONU) — Ada, OH
Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering, ABET Accredited
Minor: Computer Science
GPA: 3.49  |  Expected Graduation: May 2027
Honors: Dean’s Scholarship (2022-Present), Dean’s List

Skills

Programming Languages

Embedded Systems

CAD & Design

Data Analysis

Tools & Platforms

Other

Computer Science

AI&ML

Work Experience

NASA Glenn Research Center — Electric Propulsion Co-op (Aug 2025-Present)

At NASA Glenn, I applied advanced machine learning techniques, including Singular Value Decomposition (SVD), to analyze large datasets of Hall thruster oscilloscope transients. I also collected, organized, and analyzed FTIR data to characterize contaminants in propulsion test facilities, contributing to cleaner and more reliable test environments.

Nottingham Spirk — Firmware Development Co-op (Jan 2025-Aug 2025)

As a Firmware Development Co-op, I collaborated with engineering teams to design and prototype smart, connected products integrating IoT technologies. My responsibilities included developing and debugging embedded firmware, working with SPI and I2C protocols, and ensuring reliable device operation through bare-metal firmware development.

Graphic Packaging International — Engineering Intern (May 2024-Jan 2025)

During my internship, I developed a program in XAML and C# to automate data collection from multiple devices via Serial and SQL protocols. I also designed parts in SolidWorks for rapid prototyping and 3D printing, and contributed to mechanical solutions within manufacturing processes.

Projects

Avionics Flight Computer (Jan 2025-Present)

I led the Firmware development of a custom avionics flight computer for model rocketry, focusing on hardware and embedded software using Zephyr RTOS and bare-metal. My work emphasized robust data acquisition and system diagnostics for reliable flight performance.

SAE AERO Competition Team

SAE AERO Competition Team (Aug 2022-Present)

As a member of the SAE AERO team, I contributed to the design, construction, and assembly of a competitive model aircraft, focusing on precision component alignment and seamless integration to achieve optimal flight performance.

NEAT Genetic Neural Network (Jul-Nov 2024)

I developed a NEAT (NeuroEvolution of Augmenting Topologies) neural network and genetic algorithm from scratch in C++, creating a flexible, standalone system for easy integration into new projects.

2D Computational Fluid Dynamics Program

2D Computational Fluid Dynamics Program (On hold)

I am developing a custom 2D CFD simulation program in C++ from scratch. The project features a vector-based mesh handling system, custom geometry/data structures, and force visualization algorithms. I am currently working on a meshing algorithm for closed body shapes such as airfoils, with real-time graphics powered by SFML. This project is currently on hold while I focus on developing a flight avionics computer for model rocketry.

Solar Thermal Collection System

Solar Thermal Collection System (Jan-May 2024)

I maintained and updated a Python codebase for a solar thermal data collection system, ensuring reliable data acquisition and resolving issues across electrical, physical, and software domains.

Personal Portfolio Website

Personal Portfolio Website (Aug 2025)

This website was created as a simple, single-page static portfolio to showcase my engineering and project experience. Its minimal design and straightforward implementation reflect my focus on engineering rather than advanced web development.

Activities

American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA), ONU

Active member of the AIAA student chapter, participating in aerospace-related events, networking, and technical projects.

SAE Aero Club

Collaborate with peers to design, construct, and compete with model aircraft in national SAE Aero competitions, emphasizing teamwork and technical skills.

Interests & Hobbies

Private Pilot's License

Currently working toward my private pilot's license, with the goal of becoming a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) to share the joy of learning to fly with others.

Language Learning

I am actively learning Swedish and planning to continue with German next. I enjoy the challenge and cultural enrichment of language study.

Personal Projects & Hands-on Learning

Enjoy building, tinkering, and exploring new technologies through self-driven projects and continuous learning.

Other Hobbies

Knitting, cooking, reading, archery, and aviation are some of my favorite hobbies outside of academics and engineering.