Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Generic

Nicholas Carnes

Lancaster,SC

Summary

Recent aerospace engineering graduate with experience in CAD design, FEA, and manufacturing processes. Skilled in applying engineering principles to solve real-world problems with precision and attention to detail. Excited to contribute technical expertise and a strong work ethic to support innovative engineering solutions in entry-level positions.

Overview

3
3
years of professional experience

Work History

Swarm Intelligence Simulation

Self-Directed Research
05.2025 - Current
  • Simulated autonomous swarm behavior using PSO for path planning and obstacle negotiation in dynamic environments.
  • Modeled decentralized control strategies for multi-agent systems, achieving 100% convergence rate.
  • Applied AI-driven coordination techniques for UAVs, satellites, and distributed aerospace systems.

Undergraduate Research Assistant

Integrated Material Assessment and Predictive Simulation Laboratory (i-MAPS)
01.2023 - 05.2025
  • Created CAD models for parts that supported composite testing strategies for various projects
  • Tested for quality and defects in carbon fiber panels via non-contact soundwaves
  • Led a group in assembling and troubleshooting models, code implementations, physical prototypes

Team Lead / Senior Capstone

AIAA DBF 2025 International Competition
08.2024 - 04.2025
  • Directed full-cycle development of a mission-capable UAV for international AIAA Design/Build/Fly competition
  • Managed a multidisciplinary team of 20+ people, resolving design and fabrication issues in real-time
  • Integrated lightweight composite materials and advanced aerodynamic profiling to meet weight constraints
  • Delivered final aircraft 200 dollars under budget and on schedule for flight testing and submission

Internship

American Engineering
06.2022 - 08.2022
  • Assisted in CAD modeling under supervision of professional engineer.
  • Organized and maintained project design files for ongoing initiatives.

Education

Bachelor of Science - Aerospace Engineering

University of South Carolina Molinaroli College of Engineering
Columbia, SC

Skills

  • MATLAB and Python
  • CAD software proficiency
  • Ansys CFD and Fusion 360
  • Microsoft Office suite
  • Lean manufacturing principles
  • Dynamic system modeling and simulation
  • Optimization, algorithm development
  • Artificial intelligence concepts
  • Electrical engineering fundamentals
  • Composite manufacturing techniques
  • Manufacturing processes
  • Finite Element Analysis (FEA)

Timeline

Swarm Intelligence Simulation

Self-Directed Research
05.2025 - Current

Team Lead / Senior Capstone

AIAA DBF 2025 International Competition
08.2024 - 04.2025

Undergraduate Research Assistant

Integrated Material Assessment and Predictive Simulation Laboratory (i-MAPS)
01.2023 - 05.2025

Internship

American Engineering
06.2022 - 08.2022

Bachelor of Science - Aerospace Engineering

University of South Carolina Molinaroli College of Engineering