People

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    Bradley Allison

    Engineering Operations Resource Manager

    Bradley Allison

    Engineering Operations Resource Manager

    Bradley Allison joined NDTL in 2015 as Engineering Operations Resource Manager. He manages material resources and is the direct supervisor for the Technician Team. Before joining NDTL, Bradley spent a combined 17 years in Supply Chain Management rolls with Airgas and Coca-Cola with responsibilities over Purchasing, Distribution, Warehousing, Production, Inventory, and FDA compliance.

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    Jason Allison

    Process Air Plant Technician

    Jason Allison

    Process Air Plant Technician

    Jason Allison joined NDTL in 2016 as an Air Plant Technician. He helps maintain the Air Plant equipment and pilot the Air Plant during test campaigns. Before joining NDTL, Jason spent the last 5 years at Peak Audio Productions operating at Senior Sound Engineer.

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    AbdulRaheem Bello

    Research Scientist

    AbdulRaheem Bello

    Research Scientist

    AbdulRaheem Bello joined NDTL in 2022 as a Research Scientist. Bello is the technical lead for research programs in the calorimeter facility, focusing on centrifugal compressor development and testing. His doctoral work focused on developing and testing a detonation engine power generator to enable characterization of the exergy efficiency. His master’s research focused on developing and operating a detonation-driven hypersonic shock tunnel capable of generating high enthalpy flows. Bello holds a BS in Astronomy and BS in Space Physics from the University of Texas at Austin (2011). He received his MS (2012) and Ph.D. (2016) in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Texas at Arlington.

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    Andrew Bishop

    Test Engineer

    Andrew Bishop

    Test Engineer

    Andrew Bishop joined NDTL in 2023 as a test engineer. Andrew Bishop is a 2019 graduate of Texas Tech University with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. Before joining NDTL, Andrew Bishop spent four years as a test engineer at SimuTech Group, Inc. focusing on mechanical loads and power performance testing of utility scale onshore wind turbines.

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    Joshua D. Cameron

    Director

    Joshua D. Cameron serves as the Director of the Notre Dame Turbomachinery Laboratory (NDTL). He joined the University of Notre Dame in 2008 as Assistant Research Professor in the Department of Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering. Instrumental in the development of the Ignition Park test facilities, he was appointed Director in 2014. In his role as Director of NDTL, Cameron managed the design and construction of a new world-class advanced power and propulsion testing and research facility in downtown South Bend, IN where he currently oversees the operation of seven test cells, manages annual research expenditures, and develops the long-term vision and plan for NDTL’s growth. Cameron continues to manage and direct four testing facilities on the Notre Dame campus.

    Cameron holds a B.S. in Aerospace Engineering (2002) and M.S. in Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering (2003) from the Illinois Institute of Technology. He completed his Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering at the University of Notre Dame in 2007. He is a member of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics, and the American Physical Society.

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    Jeffrey Clark

    Turbomachinery Technician

    Jeffrey Clark

    Turbomachinery Technician

    Jeff Clark joined NDTL in 2018 as Turbomachinery Technician. Jeff is a 2007 graduate of Northwestern of Ohio with a degree in Applied Science. Before joining NDTL, Jeff spent five years as a Ford dealership automotive technician and five years as a foundry operator.

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    Evan DeClercq

    Test Technologist

    Evan DeClercq

    Test Technologist

    Evan DeClercq joined NDTL in 2021 as a test technologist. He is responsible for the setup, commissioning, and testing activities. Before joining NDTL, Evan spent 10 years as a test engineer at Honeywell Aerospace where he led testing for aircraft fuel controls, actuators, wheels, and brakes. Evan earned both his bachelor’s degree in aeronautical engineering technology from Purdue University, and his FAA Airframe & Powerplant Certificate in 2011.

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    J.R. (Bob) Fagan

    Business Development Associate Director

    J.R. (Bob) Fagan

    Business Development Associate Director

    John Robert "Bob" Fagan joined the Notre Dame Turbomachinery Laboratory (NDTL) as the Associate Director for Business Development in August 2019. He has been supporting NDTL with similar responsibilities as a contractor for the past three years. He leads the business development activities for NDTL including marketing to new customers, exploring new business opportunities, and supporting the existing customer base.

    Fagan holds a BSME from the University of Notre Dame, MSME from Drexel University, and Ph.D. from Purdue University. He spent most of his earlier career with Rolls-Royce and United Technologies, holding a number of technical positions with increasing responsibilities.

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    Fredrick Fuller

    Senior Technical Program Manager

    Fredrick Fuller

    Senior Technical Program Manager

    Fred Fuller joined the NDTL in 2018 after 23 years with GE Energy. He presently uses his expertise and experience to work with customers to achieve their testing requirements which could include facility creation or modifications, high-end instrumentation creation/application, and program leadership. Fred earned his Mechanical Engineering B.S. at the University of Maine at Orono and his M.S. in Mechanical Engineering at Union College in Schenectady, NY.

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    James Gorski

    Senior Turbomachinery Technician

    James Gorski

    Senior Turbomachinery Technician

    Jim Gorski is a Senior Turbomachinery Technician who has been a valuable member of the NDTL team since March 2015. Prior to joining the lab, Jim worked as an automotive technician/towing and recovery agent.

    At NDTL, Jim has demonstrated expertise in performing teardown and build-up of test articles and test cells, as well as instrumenting of cells and rigs. He has also shown his ability to troubleshoot and diagnose issues on the fly, an important skill in the fast-paced environment of a research laboratory.

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    Nathan Harris

    Assistant Director, Program Operations

    Nathan Harris

    Assistant Director, Program Operations

    Nathan Harris joined the Notre Dame Turbomachinery Laboratory (NDTL) in September 2023 as Assistant Director, Program Operations. In this role Nathan leads the Program Team in the development, execution and delivery of NDTL Testing programs. Prior to joining NDTL, Nathan worked at Blue Origin, where he served as Senior Director/Site Leader over Blue Origin’s Rocket Engine Production Facility in Huntsville, Alabama. In addition, Nathan brings over 19 years of Aerospace engine experience from Rolls-Royce Corporation. While at Rolls he served in a number of leadership positions across Programs, Operations, Engineering and Business Development. Nathan holds a Bachelor’s of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Clarkson University.

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    David Hipskind

    Turbomachinery Tech Specialist

    David Hipskind

    Turbomachinery Tech Specialist

    David Hipskind is a Turbomachinery Tech Specialist who joined NDTL in the fall of 2010. He brought over 20 years of mechanical experience to the lab, as well as a degree in mechanical design technology.

    David is a level 1 rigger and signalman, certified through the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO). This certification demonstrates David's expertise in crane operation and rigging, an important skill in the lab's research environment.

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    James Hock

    Senior Turbomachinery Technician

    James Hock

    Senior Turbomachinery Technician

    Jim Hock, Jr. is a Senior Technician at NDTL, having joined the lab in 2011. Before coming to NDTL, Jim worked as a construction electrician for the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW). As a Senior Technician at NDTL, Jim's contributions to the lab's research efforts have been essential to the achievement of its mission.

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    Kevin Jacquinot

    Associate Test Engineer

    Kevin Jacquinot

    Associate Test Engineer

    Kevin Jacquinot joined NDTL in 2022 as an Associate Test Engineer. Being an accomplished Aerospace Test Engineer originally from Paris, France, he has always been fascinated with the inner workings of planes and rockets and has pursued his passion throughout his academic career. After studying at a top engineering school in France, Kevin decided to broaden his horizons and pursue a dual degree at the University of Arizona. With many years of experience working in the aerospace industry, Kevin has become an expert in developing, testing, and analyzing complex aerospace systems. His skills and expertise have been invaluable to several prominent aerospace companies, and he is well-respected among his peers for his meticulous work ethic and attention to detail.

    When he isn't busy tinkering with aircraft, Kevin loves to unwind by going out for long motorcycle rides in the countryside. He enjoys the freedom of the open road and the thrill of speed. However, he also has a deep appreciation for the culture and traditions of Japan. In his spare time, he studies the language and practices martial arts.

    Despite being a well-respected engineer in his field, Kevin has never lost his sense of adventure and curiosity for life. He is always eager to learn new things and explore new places. Whether he's working on a cutting-edge aerospace project or exploring a new city, Kevin approaches every challenge with enthusiasm and determination.

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    Aleksandar Jemcov

    Associate Director for Computational Sciences

    Aleksandar Jemcov

    Associate Director for Computational Sciences

    Aleksandar Jemcov has over twenty years of experience in computational fluid dynamics and turbomachinery-related flows. His research interests include the development of numerical algorithms for fluid mechanics, solid-fluid interactions, efficient solver methodologies applicable to both compressible and incompressible flows, thermoacoustics, turbulence modeling, and linear algebra. His prior experience includes work in the Combustion Department at Pratt & Whitney Canada, Development Department at Fluent Inc., and the Development Department and Fluids Business Unit at ANSYS, Inc. He currently serves as Associate Director for Computational Sciences at the NDTL and is concurrently appointed as Research Assistant Professor in the Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering Department at the University of Notre Dame.

    Jemcov completed his Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering at the University of Belgrade in 2004.

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    Jimmy Jones

    Turbomachinery Designer

    Jimmy Jones

    Turbomachinery Designer

    Jimmy R. Jones is a Turbomachinery Designer II who joined NDTL in 2011. His primary responsibility in this role is to assist with the design of test rig components and instrumentation, as well as facility updates, using the NX CAD system.

    Prior to joining NDTL, Jimmy worked at several companies in the aerospace, automotive, and welding industries. He spent 19 years at AlliedSignal Aerospace as a hydromechanical lab technician and as a product designer working on fuel control systems for jet engines. He also worked for Robert Bosch Automotive for seven years as a lab technician and senior product designer, where he designed brake systems for the automotive industry. Jimmy spent four years as a machine designer at MTI, a company specializing in inertia friction stir welding.

    In 1993, Jimmy completed a tooling and fixture design diploma from Acme Institute of Technology. In 2006, he earned a degree in Mechanical Engineering Technology from Purdue University.

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    Jeongseek Kang

    Principal Research Scientist

    Jeongseek Kang

    Principal Research Scientist

    Jeongseek Kang serves as a Principal Research Scientist in the Notre Dame Turbomachinery Laboratory (NDTL). He leads multiple R&D programs on compressors and turbines for next-generation gas turbine or supercritical carbon dioxide-based energy system as a principal investigator, a project lead, and a science focal. His research interest includes the aeromechanics of compressor and turbine for advanced gas turbine, supercritical CO2 turbomachinery, and advanced measurement technology. Jeongseek received his Ph.D. in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering from the Seoul National University in 2002 and served as a senior researcher at Korea Aerospace Research Institute for 12 years before he joined NDTL in 2015.

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    Ryan T. Kelly

    Senior Research Scientist

    Ryan T. Kelly

    Senior Research Scientist

    Ryan T. Kelly is a Senior Research Scientist at the Notre Dame Turbomachinery Laboratory (NDTL). He serves as the programmatic and technical lead for multiple research programs at NDTL. Ryan's research interests include computational fluid dynamics, reduced order modeling, experimental automation and control methods, secondary flows, and casing treatments. Ryan Kelly holds a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from Michigan State University (2009) and a Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Notre Dame (2015).

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    Rio Larsen

    Associate Test Engineer

    Rio Larsen

    Associate Test Engineer

    Rio Larsen joined NDTL in June 2023 as an Associate Test Engineer. He manages instrumentation, troubleshooting, and operation of various turbomachinery test rigs. Rio is a 2023 graduate of Purdue University with a degree in Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering. Before joining NDTL, Rio was an undergraduate research assistant at Purdue’s High-Speed Compressor Research Laboratory where he supported research on turbofan technology.

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    Sergey Leonov

    Research Affiliate

    Sergey Leonov

    Research Affiliate

    Sergey B. Leonov serves as a Research Affiliate at the Notre Dame Turbomachinery Laboratory (NDTL) supporting research on high-speed combustion for supersonic/hypersonic propulsion systems, including scramjet and ramjet combustors. Leonov’s research interests and contributions include hypersonics, supersonic combustion, weakly ionized plasmas, and active flow control.

    Leonov is a Research Professor of Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering at the University of Notre Dame. He worked in research and higher education institutions in Moscow, Russia, including the Joint Institute for High Temperature of the Russian Academy of Sciences where he was a Head of Department, and concurrently at the Moscow Open University where he served as a Professor. From 2013 to 2014, Leonov was a visiting professor at The Ohio State University. He has over 400 publications, including over 70 peer-reviewed journal papers. He is an Associate Fellow of AIAA, IEEE Senior Member, AIAA Plasmadynamics and Lasers Technical Committee Member, Coordinator of Plasma Aerodynamics Discussion Group, EUCASS Flow Physics Technical Committee Member, and a FLUCOME Honorary Member. He has extensive experience in managing international and national research projects, including projects funded by AFOSR, AFRL, DARPA, Boeing Co., MDBA-France, DERA-UK, and FP-6/EU.

    Leonov received his Ph.D. (1990) from the Baltic State University and a Doctor of Science degree (2006) in Phys and Math from the Russian Academy of Science.

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    John Martin

    Process Air Plant Technician

    John Martin

    Process Air Plant Technician

    John Martin joined NDTL in 2016 as a Process Air Plant Technician. John runs the air plant to support testing and works to maintain the mechanical integrity of the air plant. Before joining NDTL John spent 15 years with Meijer as a maintenance technician.

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    Brian McGrath

    Turbomachinery Technician

    Brian McGrath

    Turbomachinery Technician

    Brian McGrath has a diverse professional background, having served in the U.S.A. Air Force for four years right after completing high school. He was trained as a Ground Support Equipment Mechanic during his time in the Air Force. After leaving the military, Brian spent 17 years as an Automobile Technician at a Chevrolet dealership.

    Brian also has a Trade School Degree in Electrical Technician, which he obtained after completing a one-year program at Kaplan Career Institute. He then spent six years working at Detroit Metropolitan Airport, where he supported Delta Airlines' Ground Support Equipment.

    Currently, Brian is a Turbomachinery Technician at Notre Dame, having joined the team on November 1, 2017. His extensive experience as a mechanic and electrical technician, along with his previous work in ground support equipment maintenance, has prepared him well for his current role in supporting the research efforts of the NDTL.

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    Michael Meyer

    Turbomachinery Drafter

    Michael Meyer

    Turbomachinery Drafter

    Mike Meyer joined NDTL in 2015 as Drafter I. He is responsible for designing turbomachinery parts and creating technical drawings. Mike graduated in 2011 from ITT Tech with an associate’s degree in computer drafting and design. Before joining NDTL, Mike spent 3 years at Ameri-Kart as a designer. Where he designed products for the marine/RV industry, and programmed CNC machines.

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    Harold Miller

    Program Planning Specialist

    Harold Miller

    Program Planning Specialist

    Harold joined NDTL in 2021. He is responsible for providing project management support for a wide variety of development and test projects. The support includes reporting on cost and schedule along with procurement and customer communication. Before joining NDTL, he was a principal project engineer at Honeywell where his experience included aircraft wheel and brake development as well as turbine engine fuel control and actuation design, development, and production. Harold has a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering Technology degree from Purdue University and a Master of Business Administration degree from Indiana University South Bend.

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    Scott C. Morris

    Research Director

    Scott C. Morris

    Research Director

    Professor Scott Morris joined the University of Notre Dame in 2002. He is currently a Professor of Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering, and also serves as the co-founder and Research Director of NDTL, and is also the Director of the Institute for Flow Physics and Control. His current research interests include multi-disciplinary technology development for propulsion and power systems, with an emphasis on aerodynamics, aeromechanics, and acoustics.

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    Beata Nabrzyska

    Assistant Director, Business Operations

    Beata Nabrzyska

    Assistant Director, Business Operations

    Beata joined NDTL in 2014, where she serves as an Assistant Director of Business Operations. Before taking this role, Beata worked for three years in the Notre Dame Research Administration, supporting the faculty of the College of Engineering. In her current role, Beata leads business operations of the NDTL, including human resources, project management, IT support, financial management and reporting, proposals support, and business operations. Before moving to the USA, Beata worked as a Program Office Manager and a Sourcing Manager at GlaxoSmithKline in Poland. She holds an MSE degree from the Poznan University of Technology.

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    Maricela Navarro

    Administrative Coordinator

    Maricela Navarro

    Administrative Coordinator

    Maricela joined NDTL in 2023 as Administrative Coordinator. She provides administrative support to leadership, staff, and customers. Maricela is a 2015 graduate of Indiana University South Bend with a degree in General Studies and a Spanish Minor. Before joining NDTL, Maricela spent 5 years at the South Bend Community School Corporation in a variety of roles from Migrant Family Outreach to Multilingual Program Coordinator and Career and Technical Education Dual Credit & Testing Coordinator.

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    Thomas Nieter

    Program Planning Specialist

    Thomas Nieter

    Program Planning Specialist

    Tom Nieter joined the NDTL in 2020. He is responsible for providing programmatic and transactional expertise and leadership to ensure the successful execution of programs. Before joining NDR, Tom worked for over 30 years in the Aerospace Industry within the Engineering and Program Management fields. Tom brings experience in program management, as well as designing, developing, and testing aircraft fuel systems and wheel and brake systems.

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    Rich Osgood

    Project Manager

    Rich Osgood

    Project Manager

    Rich joined NDTL in 2011, He currently is a Project Manager for multiple projects with many of them related to the academic portfolio that are used to help promote the research of the University, Rich has worked in many roles since starting at the university with NDTL including Design and Test Engineer, Turbo Machinery Designer. Before working at the university Rich was a Design Engineer and Program Manager for Parker Hannifin Sensor Business Division. Rich has a B.S. degree from DeVry University as well as a Journeyman Mold Maker card with over 20 years of experience in machining and making molds for the plastic and diecast industry. Rich is also a veteran of the United States Marine Corps.

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    Tim Ovaert

    Research Affiliate

    Tim Ovaert

    Research Affiliate

    Timothy Ovaert serves as a Research Affiliate at the Notre Dame Turbomachinery Laboratory (NDTL) supporting research in high-speed bearings, high-pressure seals, and mechanical systems. Ovaert has over thirty years of experience in research on tribology, contact mechanics, and mechanical characterization.

    Ovaert is a Professor of Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering at the University of Notre Dame. He is a recipient of the National Young Investigator Award from the National Science Foundation, a Fellow of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), and has served as chair of both the ASME Research Committee on Tribology and the ASME/STLE International Joint Tribology Conference. His awards for research and teaching include the Burt L. Newkirk Award from ASME and the Ralph R. Teetor Award from the Society of Automotive Engineers. He has held visiting faculty appointments in the Weapons and Materials Research Directorate at the Army Research Lab and the High-Temperature Materials Lab at Oak Ridge National Laboratory.

    Ovaert received his Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from Northwestern University (1989).

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    Ethan Pérez

    Research Scientist

    Ethan Pérez

    Research Scientist

    Ethan Pérez is a Senior Research Scientist at the Notre Dame Turbomachinery Laboratory. His responsibilities include mechanical and aerodynamic design, data processing, numerical analysis, software development, and turbomachinery testing. Pérez graduated from the University of Notre Dame in 2014 with a Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering.

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    Alexander Perry

    Senior Test Engineer

    Alexander Perry

    Senior Test Engineer

    Alexander Perry is a Senior Test Engineer for the NDTL. He joined the lab in January 2015 as an entry Test Engineer working with a great team in the Transonic Research Turbine test cell at the White Field research facility. At NDTL, Alex has expanded and shared his skills in advanced instrumentation, data acquisition, data analysis, and controls. Alex is currently acting as test lead for small-scale compressor programs and providing expertise and guidance for his direct colleagues, the lab in general, and its sponsors. Alex earned a BSME degree from Purdue University in Spring 2014.

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    Jessica Piser

    Financial Program Manager

    Jessica Piser

    Financial Program Manager

    Jessica Piser joined NDTL in 2019 as the Financial Program Manager. She manages financial support for sponsored research projects including budgeting, financial management, and projections, as well as financial management for the lab. Jessica graduated from Saint Mary’s College with a bachelor's degree in Business and Communications and Indiana University with a master's degree in accounting. Before joining NDTL, Jessica worked at Saint Mary’s College and Crowe Horwath.

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    Tom Pratt

    Research Affiliate

    Tom Pratt

    Research Affiliate

    Thomas G. Pratt serves as a Research Affiliate at the Notre Dame Turbomachinery Laboratory (NDTL) supporting research in advanced sensor systems including the development of Radio Frequency (RF) based inlet debris and engine health monitoring systems for gas turbine engines. Pratt’s research interests focus on radio frequency systems, particularly “physical layer” issues such as signal processing, system architectures, signal propagation, and multi-port techniques.

    Pratt is a Research Professor in the Department of Electrical Engineering at the University of Notre Dame. He heads the RF Communications and Sensing Laboratory, which consists of research engineers, administrative staff, and doctoral students. His laboratory conducts research on projects for applications such as radar, communications, and sensing systems, and supports technology transition efforts for medical monitoring, cyber security, and industrial equipment monitoring applications. Under Pratt’s leadership, the research group has acquired approximately $12M in research and equipment funding since 2008. Lab facilities and equipment include two field research vehicles, coherent MIMO transceiver systems, and a wide assortment of software-defined radio platforms.

    Pratt completed his Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering at the Georgia Institute of Technology in 1999; he worked at the Georgia Tech Research Institute for 23 years as a research engineer before coming to Notre Dame. Pratt holds 13 patents related to his research.

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    Benjamin Riggles

    Test Engineering Manager

    Benjamin Riggles

    Test Engineering Manager

    Ben Riggles joined the Notre Dame Turbomachinery Laboratory as Test Engineering Manager in August of 2023. Prior to joining NDTL, he was the Test Engineering and Site Manager of the Badger Propulsion Test Facility for Sierra Space in North Freedom, Wisconsin. There he managed the testing of space propulsion systems as well as the operations and maintenance of the test site. Prior to his work at Sierra Space, Ben served in the United States Air Force for 12 years in explosive ordnance disposal and engineering. Ben holds a Bachelor’s of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology.

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    Ryan Rivard

    Associate Test Engineer

    Ryan Rivard

    Associate Test Engineer

    Ryan Rivard joined NDTL in 2021 as an Associate Test Engineer. He is primarily focused on planning and executing test programs at NDTL's on-campus facilities. Ryan is a 2020 graduate of the University of Central Florida with a degree in Aerospace Engineering and is currently pursuing a Master's Degree in Thermofluid Aerodynamic Systems from the same institution in his spare time.

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    Mark H. Ross

    Academic Program Manager

    Mark H. Ross

    Academic Program Manager

    Mark H. Ross is a Senior Research Scientist at the NDTL where he leads fundamental research efforts in the Front-Stage Core Compressor (FSCC) and Advanced Noise Control Fan (ANCF) facilities. He serves as a technical advisor to NDTL project teams on test engineering, experimental methods, and data analysis.

    Ross holds a Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Notre Dame (2014). His doctoral research focused on developing a physics-based approach to circumferential groove casing treatment design for transonic axial compressors. His research interests include casing treatment technologies for aerodynamic, aeromechanical, and aeroacoustic applications in compressors. He is also interested in aerodynamic and aeromechanical impacts of distorted inflows on fans and compressors, reacting flows, and novel control technologies for noise reduction from vehicles and propulsors. 

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    Elinor Rowe

    Associate Test Engineer

    Elinor Rowe

    Associate Test Engineer

    Elinor Rowe joined the NDTL as an Associate Test Engineer in December of 2021. She is responsible for test process development and documentation, design, calibration, and troubleshooting of instrumentation, software, and hardware for the various test rigs that partner with NDTL. In her short time with NDTL, she has been involved in the development and testing of 13 different projects. Elinor graduated from Oklahoma State University in May of 2021 with a B.S. in Electrical Engineering.

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    Michael Rulli

    Facility Engineer

    Michael Rulli

    Facility Engineer

    Mike Rulli joined NDTL in 2014 as the Facility Engineer. He provides critical support for the design, implementation, construction, and operation of the testing facility. Mike holds relationships with key suppliers and University stakeholders to provide needed materials, equipment, and services to meet the unique and time-sensitive needs of the research programs, and to promote compliant and safe operations. Before joining NDTL, Mike spent five years as the research and science procurement specialist in ND’s Procurement department and has over 20 years of experience with Caterpillar, Inc. in application engineering, logistics, and procurement. Mike holds a Bachelor of Science in Public and Environmental Affairs from Indiana University and a Master of Science in Industrial Engineering Technology from Purdue University.

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    Jason Sass

    Turbomachinery Technician

    Jason Sass

    Turbomachinery Technician

    Jason Sass joined NDTL in 2022 as a Turbomachinery Technician. Before joining NDTL, Jason spent 25 years working as a Master ASE automotive technician in both the private and public sectors. Jason is also a Master ASE heavy equipment technician. Jason specialized in emergency vehicles, including unique projects involving hybrids and compressed natural gas.

  41. Ryan Shaffer

    Turbomachinery Technician

    Ryan Shaffer

    Turbomachinery Technician

    Ryan Shaffer joined NDTL in 2023 as a turbomachinery technician. Before joining NDTL, Ryan 4 years as a HVAC service/install technician, 4 years as a residential electrician, and another 6 years in property management rehabbing houses.

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    John Speybroeck

    Assistant Director, Engineering Operations

    John Speybroeck

    Assistant Director, Engineering Operations

    John Speybroeck joined the Notre Dame Turbomachinery Laboratory as Engineering Operations Manager in September 2019. He comes to NDTL from Honeywell Aerospace with an extensive background in Engineering Management, Product Development, and Project Management. John holds a BSME from Valparaiso University and an MBA from the University of Notre Dame.

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    Austin Stewart

    Associate Turbomachinery Technician

    Austin Stewart

    Associate Turbomachinery Technician

    Austin Stewart joined NDTL in 2016 as an Associate Turbomachinery Technician. He manages the logistics operations involved in shipping and receiving for the organization, as well as sourcing and acquiring components and supplies for NDTL’s research activities.

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    Will Stewart

    Senior Design Engineer

    Will Stewart

    Senior Design Engineer

    Will Stewart is an experienced engineer who joined NDTL in 2016 as a senior design engineer. He has been the design lead on several compressor rig projects. Additionally, Will has designed some of the Lab's facilities, including a 1.5-meter diameter annular exhaust restriction valve for compressors.

    With over 25 years of experience as an engineer in the aerospace and automotive sectors, Will is well-versed in the fields of mechanical design, structural analysis, heat transfer, and manufacturing methods. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from Purdue University and a Master of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Michigan.

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    James Sutton

    Test Engineer

    James Sutton

    Test Engineer

    James Sutton joined the NDTL in early 2021. Prior to joining NDTL, James worked as a Product Development Engineer at Whirlpool Corporation. While with Whirlpool, James developed and implemented novel technologies to further advance high speed spin control algorithms, helped launch new product lines around the world, and obtained his OpEx Black Belt certification. James graduated from the University of North Dakota in 2018 with a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering.

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    Joshua D. Szczudlak

    Senior Research Scientist

    Joshua D. Szczudlak

    Senior Research Scientist

    Joshua D. Szczudlak is a Senior Research Scientist at NDTL where he leads a variety of experimental and numerical projects. He has extensive experience in running high energy, complex test programs, which include single-stage axial and centrifugal compressors, high speed propulsion components and systems. He led the development of NDTL’s simulated high Mach direct connect facilities including the high-speed combustion and turbine-based combined cycle (TBCC) engine test cell.

    Szczudlak received his Ph.D. in Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering from the University of Notre Dame (2019) under the direction of Scott C. Morris. His doctoral work focused on the study of complex flow interactions present in turbomachines, focusing on the aero and thermal performance of turbine nozzles.

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    Alexander Vorobiev

    Senior Test Engineer

    Alexander Vorobiev

    Senior Test Engineer

    Alexander Vorobiev joined the NDTL in 2016 as a Senior Test Engineer. Alexander Vorobiev holds a Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Notre Dame (2010) and M.S. in Applied Physics from Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology (1992).

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    Heidi Wegner

    Senior Business Assistant

    Heidi Wegner

    Senior Business Assistant

    Heidi Wegner joined NDTL in 2019 as a business assistant. She manages the day to day operations in the front business office as well as coordinates travel, manages the internship program and handles purchasing and invoicing. Heidi is a 2006 graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point with a fine arts degree in graphic design. Before joining NDTL, Heidi spent 4 years at Adidas in Indianapolis, IN.

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    Michael Wentzel

    Turbomachinery Designer

    Michael Wentzel

    Turbomachinery Designer

    Michael Wentzel was born in South Bend, Indiana. During his time at LaSalle High School one of the classes he enjoyed was drafting. After a year and a half, his teacher recommended him to the instructor of the ICT group, which placed students with work in the trade industry. Soon after, he interviewed for a job using AutoCAD. Never having used AutoCAD during his classes in school, he ended up getting the job in October 1984 and has been using various CAD systems his whole career.

    Outside of work, Mike spent his early years bowling and spending time with his family. Now in his later years, he still spends time with the family and travels with his wife, Kathie. All though they do not travel far, he enjoys exploring places they have never been.

    During the summer months, he spends time at his in-law’s cottage at the lake, watching the boats and others fishing. He enjoys the peaceful time at the lake, especially in the mornings when it is quiet. Overall, Mike is dedicated to his work and family.

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    Douglas Wise

    Senior Technical Program Manager

    Douglas Wise

    Senior Technical Program Manager

    Douglas Wise joined NDTL in November 2020 as Project Leader for the Carrier alternative working fluids test cell construction project. He now serves as Sr. Technical Program Manager responsible for schedule, budget and customer relationship on several turbine testing programs. Douglas is a 1986 graduate of the University of Dayton with a degree in mechanical engineering. Before joining NDTL, Douglas spent 32 in the aerospace industry with Honeywell International in various project engineering, product development and customer service engineer roles. While with Honeywell he also earned an Executive MBA degree in 2009 from the University of Notre Dame.

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    Rick Williams

    IT Solutions Consultant

    Rick Williams

    IT Solutions Consultant

    Rick joined NDTL in 2010, where he currently serves as the IT Solutions Consultant. Before taking the role in IT, Rick worked for 9 years as a Turbomachinery Technician for NDTL supporting running and building test programs for the group. In his current role, Rick solely leads all IT support functions for the group including server management, data security and compliance, hardware specifications and purchasing, remote systems management, AV, hardware repair, and networking. Before coming to Notre Dame, Rick worked in mostly technical fields such as repairing large electric motors while he was an apprentice for Koontz Wagner electric out of South Bend as well as working as a technician for Jordan Toyota in Mishawaka.