Meet MAES President and SpaceX Intern Tony Martinez
Sept. 30, 2024 - Marc Anthony Martinez is an UCI aerospace engineering senior. He shares about how he managed an internship at SpaceX while being co-president of MAES, Latinos in Science and Engineering, and a full-time student.
How did you get interested in engineering?
Ever since I was a child, my parents really pushed me to be creative with my mind. Rather than giving me an iPad, they provided me with Legos and puzzles, which inspired me to use my creativity to make something tangible.
What are your aspirations in engineering?
I’m really interested in propulsion and combustion as well as fluid analysis, performance testing and engine component design. I want to make notable contributions to space exploration when I become an engineer.
How did you get your Space X internship?
I had an internship at the Port of Los Angeles after my first year. That really spoke on my resume. That’s where I got experience using CAD (Computer Aided Designs) to create something to improve reliability.
My MAES mentor sent me the SpaceX application and other friends in MAES sent me questions to prepare technically for an interview. I wouldn’t even have thought to apply if it weren’t for them because there’s only a 1.2% acceptance rate. But I gave it a shot, and I’m glad I did.
Why do you think you got accepted?
I asked my mentor about this. I think it’s a combination of my behavioral skills and technical excellence. I like to be a team player. As MAES president, I know how to delegate and be supportive when people are feeling overwhelmed and I understand people’s strengths and weaknesses. Being competent in fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, CAD, materials science and calculus also helped.
What did you do at the internship?
I did a lot. At SpaceX, no one works less than 50 hours a week. I had projects like designing a hydraulic cylinder. I went through the entire manufacturing process from design to material selection and testing. I also created an NX basics design page for anyone at SpaceX to reference in the future. From April 1- Sept. 13, I was working full-time while being a full-time student.
How did you manage that?
It was difficult. Monday through Friday, I’d wake up at 6 a.m. and drive an hour to work, including 30 minutes for parking. I’d work 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Monday through Thursday, then I’d fly back to Irvine for classes at 5 p.m. Wednesdays I had MAES board meetings. I had to study till around midnight.
(Editor’s Note: UCI has launched a new Engineering + Practicum program that allows students to work full time for two quarters at a company and not have to take regular courses while maintaining their student status. Practicum is a course where students receive units.)
How were you able to manage that period?
My friends and family really supported me. By mid-terms, I was worn out. My mom said, “This opportunity isn’t presented to anyone. They chose you because they believe you’re capable so make sure you prove them right.” I took that to heart and ended up with a 3.6 for the quarter, which was pretty good.
Who’s had a major influence on your life?
My parents. My father came from Mexico. He went through hardships, including times he didn’t know when he was going to eat. It taught me what it means to struggle and work hard. You don’t have to be the best, but you have to work harder than the rest.
My mother came to this country as a chemical engineer but she has a language barrier, so in job interviews, she couldn’t communicate her knowledge in the field though she was more than qualified. But she taught me how to adapt. Instead of being a chemical engineer, she reoriented her path to become a nurse. She taught me it’s never too late to chase your dreams.
Tell us about MAES (Latinos in Science and Engineering)
It’s a familia away from home. That’s our motto. People have similar backgrounds and aspirations – they want to be engineers, doctors, scientists, etc. It’s provided mentorship and a sense of family and friendships – people you can go out to movies, play soccer and also study with.
What do you want to say to other Latino students during Hispanic Heritage Month?
Believe in yourself. You’re here because you’re capable. There’s always imposter syndrome or fear you can’t pass your classes, but with hard work and dedication, you’re unstoppable. My mom always said, “If you have a dream, the only person stopping you from getting there is yourself.” You can achieve anything you want as long as you dedicate yourself.
- Natalie Tso
