Ethan Knafla
Citrus Heights,CA
Summary
Adaptable professional with a strong ability to learn new skills quickly and apply them to real-world tasks. Demonstrated success navigating change through structured learning and rapid onboarding. Committed to continuous improvement and performance under evolving priorities.
Overview
4
4
years of professional experience
Work History
Structures Lead
Hornet Aerospace Engineering Club
Sacramento, CA
08.2025 - Current
- Advanced rocketry project execution by delegating engineering tasks and guiding team members through complex work.
- Led design, build, and launch work for high-power rockets, strengthening SolidWorks/Onshape skills and material selection knowledge for stable rocket design.
- Developed relationships with industry experts to expand knowledge and create opportunities in rocketry.
Associate
Activate Games
Sacramento, CA
02.2026 - Current
- Diagnosed complex electronic components in game systems and replaced parts to enhance technical expertise in electronics.
- Managed customer interactions by prioritizing their needs, which strengthened communication and client service skills.
Associate / Outreach co-leader
Kids Helping Kids Sacramento
Fair Oaks, CA
08.2022 - 01.2024
- Guided a student-run organization, leading efforts that raised over $200,000 during tenure, fostering leadership among high school students.
- Coordinated outreach efforts, developing leadership and public speaking skills through active engagement in organizational activities.
- Directed fundraising initiatives for nonprofit aiding families with children battling cancer, enhancing community support.
OGP Associate
Walmart
Antelope, CA
06.2023 - 01.2025
- Directed group efforts to maintain project timelines and deliverables.
- Managed problem-solving in a fast-paced setting to resolve issues swiftly.
- Collaborated with team to optimize daily operations and workflow.
Education
Mechanical Engineering
Sacramento State University
Sacramento, CA12-2028
Skills
- Rocket propulsion design
- CAD design expertise
- Critical thinking and problem solving
- Organizational skills
- Team coordination
- Leadership
- Public speaking proficiency
Timeline
Associate
Activate Games
02.2026 - Current
Structures Lead
Hornet Aerospace Engineering Club
08.2025 - Current
OGP Associate
Walmart
06.2023 - 01.2025
Associate / Outreach co-leader
Kids Helping Kids Sacramento
08.2022 - 01.2024
Mechanical Engineering
Sacramento State University