Gage Payne 

My name is Gage Payne. I'm a 18 year old high school student who has a strong passion for aerospace engineering. The path I've chosen for my career has been greatly influenced by my father, who has an extensive background in aviation and aerospace. He has experience working with both civilian aircraft and drones and his stories have inspired me since I was a child. In grade 6 the idea of pursuing a career in aerospace engineering first sparked in my mind. Throughout school I've actively worked towards achieving this dream. In my freshman year I completed PLTW Engineering 101 which introduced me to the fundamentals of engineering and further fueled my interest in this field. Additionally I've gained hands on experience using Autodesk Fusion 360—a CAD software commonly used in engineering—which has helped develop my design and modeling skills. Alongside learning CAD and the basics of CFD software, I have also calibrated precise measurement systems for Mtech (Magee technologies). Outside of the classroom I'm a participant in my schools music program. Being part of bands such as the marching band, pit ensemble pep band and percussion ensemble, these experiences have taught me valuable lessons about teamwork, hard work and discipline—qualities that will undoubtedly benefit me in my future career. My ultimate goal is to pursue a four year degree, in aerospace engineering after graduating from high school. Obtaining my professional engineering certification is another important milestone that I aim to achieve on this journey after my collage education. I have an interest in aerospace engineering and this passion extends to various aspects of the field. My goal is to make contributions, to the advancement of state of the art aerospace technology with the aim of positively influencing both national security and global innovation. My vision is to play a crucial role in the advancement of aerospace systems that not only enhance national defense capabilities but also contribute to a more secure and interconnected global community. By fostering innovation and ensuring the reliability of aerospace technologies, I hope to make a meaningful difference in shaping the future of our world. In summary, my journey towards becoming an aerospace engineer has been shaped by strong family influence, a solid educational foundation, and hands-on experiences. I am dedicated to furthering my education and pursuing a career that allows me to contribute to the aerospace industry, with the overarching goal of making a significant impact on a global scale.