Student Spotlight: Engineering Mechanics Senior Kyle Adler

Kyle Adler is entering his final semester as an undergraduate student in the Engineering Mechanics (+Aerospace Engineering option), BS program. As his time at UW-Madison comes to a close, he reflects on all the great experiences, lessons, and skills he has gained. Interested in expanding into the space industry after graduation, Kyle hopes the foundational work he is doing on liquid rockets will allow future badger engineers more hands-on opportunities.

What has your engineering journey been like? Did you ‘always’ want to be an engineer?

I’ve always loved tinkering with things and taking them apart. Growing up, I was lucky to have my dad, a Badger engineer alum, to help guide my projects. Those early experiences and interests made it clear to me early on that I wanted to pursue engineering. Joining my high school’s rocket club solidified that decision even further, as I worked with other students on an engineering project for NASA’s Student Launch. I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunities I’ve had along the way, and I hope to pass on similar opportunities to students in the future by helping lead and grow UW-Madison’s rocket club.

How did you decide to pursue a degree in Engineering Mechanics (+Aerospace Engineering option) (EMA)? Is there a specific area of EMA you are interested in?

My interest in rocketry really took off when I saw SpaceX successfully land their boosters. That moment, combined with visits to rocket museums through my high school rocket club, made me realize I wanted to be part of the space industry. Knowing I wanted to focus on aerospace coursework, the Engineering Mechanics (+Aerospace Engineering option) felt like the obvious choice, and it’s been a great fit. Through various projects and industry connections, I’ve found my passion for propulsion, fluids, and test.

Are you involved in any student organizations? If so, which ones and what is your involvement?

I’ve been part of the Wisconsin Space Program (formerly AIAA UW-Madison) for over four years. I came in with some rocketry experience from high school, but I learned so much from the senior members who were willing to share their knowledge. Over time, I took on leadership roles in rocket competitions and eventually served as president (’22-’23), leading UW’s first team to compete in the Spaceport America Cup. This year, I’ve taken on the role of Propulsion Director and am focused on propulsion research as we work on liquid rockets to give future students hands-on opportunities.

Can you talk about your experience with undergraduate research or co-ops/internships?

I’ve had great experiences with both undergraduate research and co-ops. My first research project was with Professor Joseph Andrews in the Andrews Lab for Printed Electronics and Sensors (LPES), where I used my rocketry avionics background to design a custom PCB circuit for soil sensors in a commercial prototype. Later, I worked with Professor Riccardo Bonazza in the Wisconsin Shock Tube Lab (WiSTL), where I got hands-on experience with high-pressure systems, gas dynamics, and imaging. I’ve since returned to WiSTL and continue to work there.

Most recently, I completed a Mechanical Engineering Co-op at Extreme Engineering Solutions (XES) in Verona, WI, where I had the opportunity to design, analyze and prototype components for commercial and defense applications. I’ve found these experiences incredibly valuable and, alongside my extracurriculars, have provided me with an excellent background in manufacturing, integration and testing to supplement my in-depth analytical coursework.

As you approach your last semester at UW-Madison, what is a favorite memory or accomplishment you have from your time in EMA or at UW?

One of my favorite memories has to be the 2023 Spaceport America Cup in New Mexico. It was the first time a UW team was accepted into the competition, and none of our team members really knew what to expect. After months of preparation and hours of last-minute repairs in harsh desert conditions, we finally got to watch our project ascend into the clear sky. Once we had successfully launched and recovered our rocket and all our hard work had paid off, we got to enjoy the remaining launch days bonding as a team in our air-conditioned Airbnb, exploring White Sands National Park, and stargazing in the middle of nowhere.

What might you share with other UW/Engineering students coming up behind you?

I encourage future engineering students to ask as many questions as possible! There are so many students, TAs, and professors who are happy to help and want to see you succeed. If a student org catches your interest, don’t hesitate to share your ideas and take the initiative to get involved.

There are also countless opportunities around you—whether it’s research labs or student projects—you just need to ask around to find valuable experiences. On top of that, personal, passion projects are a great way to learn, especially with the abundance of educational videos and resources online. I highly recommend diving into a project! Don’t get too caught up in perfecting the design—just build it. Your failures will teach you more than your successes.