Parag Barua
Alexandria,VA
Summary
Mechanical engineering student specializing in aerospace with a strong focus on research and project development. Proven expertise in autonomous systems, aeronautics research, and high-performance design. Skilled in programming, ROS, embedded development, and CAD, complemented by hands-on experience in building and testing hardware.
Overview
2
2
years of professional experience
Work History
Autonomous Maritime Vehicle
RobotX
08.2025 - Current
- Developed autonomous navigation system enabling real-time path planning and obstacle avoidance.
- Utilized 3D modeling to design parts for RC prototype boat and WAM-V boat.
- Designed transverse thruster system facilitating omnidirectional movement of the vehicle.
- Engineered pully system for deploying and retracting hydrophones on WAM-V roof.
- Coordinated with engineers ensuring functional autonomous boat meeting mission specifications.
Wind Tunnel Airfoil Testing
George Mason University
08.2025 - 11.2025
- Executed airfoil research in Matrix wind tunnels, analyzing flow behavior and lift/drag performance at various airspeeds and angles of attack.
- Mapped surface pressure distribution on NACA 0015 airfoil with 23-tap system, capturing pressure variations for aerodynamic analysis.
- Measured lift and drag of NACA 0015 compared to NACA 4415 using distinct wind tunnels, conducting tests across three angles of attack and three airspeeds.
Autonomous Bio-Inspired BLIMP
George Mason MIX Competition
01.2025 - 04.2025
- Designed and fabricated bio-inspired flapping-wing blimp utilizing CAD modeling, 3D printing, and lightweight carbon fiber materials.
- Enabled wireless remote control and real-time data transmission for autonomous flight by programming Arduino ESP32 Feather.
- Optimized wing mechanics and stability through application of aerodynamics and biomimicry principles inspired by bats and prehistoric flyers.
- Created claw-based catching mechanism that secured first place in both performance and presentation at a judging event.
Wing Spar Design
George Mason University
02.2024 - 05.2024
- Collaborated in designing main wing spar for aircraft, emphasizing structural integrity and performance.
- Developed detailed CAD models and conducted stress analysis using Autodesk Inventor for design validation.
- Calculated internal shear forces and bending moments with MATLAB, ensuring compliance with FAA regulations.
- Evaluated weight and strength of 2014-T6 aluminum to enhance durability and weight efficiency.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Mechanical Engineering
George Mason University
05.2026
Skills
- MATLAB and Python
- Embedded programming
- Robot Operating System (ROS)
- Embedded systems development
- CAD software: SolidWorks, Autodesk Inventor
- 3D modeling and design
Timeline
Autonomous Maritime Vehicle
RobotX
08.2025 - Current
Wind Tunnel Airfoil Testing
George Mason University
08.2025 - 11.2025
Autonomous Bio-Inspired BLIMP
George Mason MIX Competition
01.2025 - 04.2025
Wing Spar Design
George Mason University
02.2024 - 05.2024
Bachelor of Science - Mechanical Engineering
George Mason University