Michaela Stratton
Norfolk
Summary
Engineer with experience in modeling & simulation, applied mathematics, UAV autonomy research, and CAD-based structural modeling. Converts complex physical problems into practical simulation tools and delivers clear, reliable analytical results.
Overview
5
5
years of professional experience
Work History
Naval Architect
Norfolk Naval Shipyard
Portsmouth
07.2025 - Current
- Produce and update 3D models and 2D drawings for structural and arrangement changes on the CVN-68 Class using Autodesk Inventor and AutoCAD, ensuring configuration accuracy and compliance with NAVSEA standards.
- Build detailed part models, assemblies, and arrangement layouts to support feasibility assessments, ship checks, and work package development.
- Conduct preliminary finite element analysis (FEA) and structural evaluations to assess loads, stress distribution, and structural adequacy for new installations and modifications.
- Perform on-ship measurements and structural inspections, validating as-found conditions, and incorporating field data into updated CAD models.
- Coordinate with structural, mechanical, and electrical disciplines to ensure model integration, interface consistency, and proper foundation design.
- Apply naval structural design criteria, shock/vibration requirements, and material standards when creating or modifying models and drawings.
- Maintain configuration control by managing model revisions, drawing updates, and engineering changes across the CVN-68 hull planning yard baseline.
Undergraduate Student Researcher
North Carolina State University
Raleigh
05.2022 - 08.2022
- Developed a script to batch-rename and organize large data files generated from additive manufacturing test runs, standardizing file-naming conventions and improving traceability and workflow efficiency.
- Created a MATLAB image-processing pipeline for analyzing CT-scan pore images of printed aerospace components, supporting porosity characterization and post-process validation.
- Assisted in experimental setup and operation of metal additive manufacturing equipment, coordinating with researchers to collect data for material property evaluation.
- Organized and cleaned raw experimental datasets, integrating them into standardized formats for downstream analysis and comparison across build cycles.
Undergraduate Student Researcher
Vehicle Systems & Control Laboratory Texas A&M
College Station
05.2021 - 07.2021
- Conducted research on reinforcement learning for cooperative flight of unmanned aircraft, focusing on multi-agent coordination strategies for shared airspace and mission objectives.
- Assisted in developing and testing RL algorithms that enabled UAVs to plan trajectories, avoid conflicts, and optimize collective behavior under simulated constraints.
- Supported simulation environment setup using Python-based tools to evaluate algorithm performance, compare policies, and validate cooperative control strategies.
- Analyzed system behavior through data visualization, statistical metrics, and performance evaluation, contributing to iterative algorithm refinement.
- Collaborated with graduate researchers to understand UAV dynamics, guidance and control principles, and the integration of RL methods with traditional flight-control frameworks.
- Prepared technical notes and documentation summarizing results, experiment configurations, and lessons learned for use in ongoing research.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Applied Mathmatics
North Carolina State University
Raleigh, NC12-2024
Bachelor of Science - Aerospace Engineering
North Carolina State University
Raleigh, NC05-2024
Skills
- Matlab &Simulink
- Python
- Sensor Integration
- Sensitivity Analysis
- Statistical Analysis
- PLC Programming
- PID Control
- FEA ( ANSY, FEMAP)
- Rasberry PI
- UAV Systems and Control
- Systems Integration
- Flight Testing
Clearence
Active Secret Clearance
Timeline
Naval Architect
Norfolk Naval Shipyard
07.2025 - Current
Undergraduate Student Researcher
North Carolina State University
05.2022 - 08.2022
Undergraduate Student Researcher
Vehicle Systems & Control Laboratory Texas A&M
05.2021 - 07.2021
Bachelor of Science - Applied Mathmatics
North Carolina State University
Bachelor of Science - Aerospace Engineering
North Carolina State University