Mario Rodriguez Lopez
San Jose,CA
Summary
Goal-oriented Autopilot Engineer with nearly a year of experience in GTM and Project Rodeo at Tesla. Specialized in training new hires for three months, collaborating with trainers nationwide and Project Rodeo leads to develop and refine optimal curricula. Expertise in self-driving concepts, curriculum development, and translating complex FSD Supervised limitations into accessible strategies for operators and passengers. Proven track record of excellent data collection, high performance, and flexibility with schedule changes or extra shifts (including weekends, afternoons/nights, and domestic travel). Passionate about advancing Tesla's autonomous mobility mission by preparing new hires to safely operate on the road while ensuring data integrity and compliance in safety-sensitive environments.
Overview
4
4
years of professional experience
Work History
Autopilot Engineer
Tesla
03.2025 - Current
- Worked on multiple GTM data collection tracks, including Follow the Leader, Overhang, GeoFence Mapping, Dynamic Gates, and Novatel, contributing to 205 reservations, 9,850 miles, and 32,492 clips while providing vital feedback on FSD Supervised performance.
- Conducted daily vehicle operations in Engineering and TCP vehicles with FSD Supervised (6-8 hour shifts), prioritizing passenger safety, comfort, and data collection while implementing feedback loops to engineering teams for system improvements.
- Developed and delivered 80-hour, 40-hour, and 32-hour training curricula for safety-critical technologies, incorporating scenario-based evaluations, sensor calibration, and software validation, resulting in high trainee success rates and preparedness for real-world operations.
- Reviewed daily drive reports for technical accuracy and passenger interaction quality, maintaining compliance records and translating complex PROD indicators into non-technical communication strategies using Microsoft Office Suite.
- Adapted to flexible schedules, including weekends, holidays, afternoons, and nights, with readiness for domestic travel to support standardized training across shifts in diverse environments.
Certified Trainer
Coastline Academy
01.2022 - 12.2024
- Created unique lesson plans and curricula for individual students and new hires, laying out scenario-based evaluations to recognize strengths/weaknesses and prepare them for practical driving skills, resulting in over 2,500 hours of drive time across Bay Area roads.
- Trained new hires on the "Coastline Way," focusing on engaging with clients, students, and vendors, while providing constructive feedback and gaining control in critical situations to ensure safety-critical compliance.
- Documented and reported on students' progress, maintaining timely communications with supervisors and collaborating with the California DMV to standardize training and achieve high success rates.
- Developed instructional materials for safety-critical driving technologies, translating complex concepts into accessible strategies and fostering feedback loops to improve trainee performance.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Data Analytics
Evergreen Valley College
San Jose, California, CASkills
- Training & Instructional: Curriculum Development, Scenario-Based Evaluations, Hands-On Workshops (Sensor Calibration, Software Validation), Feedback Loops, Compliance Tracking
- Technical Skills: Microsoft Office Suite (Advanced Proficiency in Word, PowerPoint, Excel); Self-Driving Concepts; FSD Supervised Technology; AI Data Tracking & Analysis
- Operations & Soft Skills: Vehicle Operation (6-8 Hour Shifts), Passenger Communication Strategies, Adaptability in Diverse Environments, Flexible Scheduling (Weekends, Holidays, Day/Afternoon/Night Shifts), Domestic Travel Readiness
- Domain Knowledge: Safety-Critical Technologies, Technical Explanation for Non-Engineers, Drug-Testing Compliance
- Leadership: Taking on difficult tasks with high morale and technical expertise; recognizing those needing assistance and building their confidence; owning mistakes and resolving them effectively
Languages
English
Native or Bilingual
Spanish
Professional Working
Timeline
Autopilot Engineer
Tesla
03.2025 - Current
Certified Trainer
Coastline Academy
01.2022 - 12.2024
Bachelor of Science - Data Analytics
Evergreen Valley College