James Winkelhoch is a passionate aerospace engineering undergrad (Grad Dec 2025), private pilot, and lifelong rocketry enthusiast who began designing and building solid and hybrid rocket motors at age 13. As President of the SLU Rocket Propulsion Lab, James led the development of Project Groundbreaker, a COTS-based competition rocket, and Project Northstar, a high-thrust experimental hybrid propulsion system. He served as Team Captain for the 2024 Spaceport America Cup and completed his Eagle Scout project by constructing a fully functional model rocket launch pad. With deep technical expertise in CAD, propulsion systems, avionics, and structural analysis—as well as hands-on skills in testing and manufacturing—James brings a rigorous, mission-driven approach to aerospace innovation. A dedicated outdoorsman and skier, he thrives both in high-stakes engineering environments and on backcountry trails.

Resume

JAMES WINKELHOCH

Kirkwood, MO 63122 | jimmywinkelhoch74@gmail.com | (314) 210–4226 



Career Target: AEROSPACE ENGINEER

Driven aerospace engineering graduate with hands-on experience in propulsion systems, multidisciplinary engineering leadership, and advanced technical projects. Adept at leading teams in competitive and research-driven environments, with proven success in hybrid and solid rocket design and testing, also high-power rocketry. Recognized for innovative problem-solving, technical acumen in CAD and simulation software, and a passion for pushing aerospace technology boundaries. Expertise in aerospace systems integration and avionics. Earned certification for private pilot’s license. Bilingual in English and essential Mandarin Chinese, broadening communication potential in international contexts. Eagle Scout achievement, demonstrating discipline, dedication, and leadership. Awareness of global engineering challenges and solutions through team competitions. 

Core competencies include: 

Technical Engineering Skills

  • Proficient in CAD (AutoCAD, ANSYS Fluent), MATLAB, Composites, Propulsion Systems, Avionics, Pyrotechnics, Aerodynamics, Aero Structures.

  • High-Power Rocketry Level 1 Certification: design, manufacturing, testing, and ITAR compliance.

Project Management & Leadership

  • President and Vice President roles in SLU Rocket Propulsion Lab, leading aerospace projects.

  • Managed timelines, budgets, and multidisciplinary teams for initiatives, including Spaceport America Cup.

  • Experience coordinating complex engineering systems and ensuring deliverables meet high standards.

Research & Development

  • Conducted hybrid rocket engine research, including design and testing of scale prototypes.

  • Biomedical engineering research using ANSYS for safety-critical simulations.

  • Developed innovative solutions for experimental rockets and propulsion systems.

Analytical & Computational Proficiency

  • Skilled in MATLAB for advanced calculations, simulations, and data analysis.

  • Experienced in modeling physical systems, aerodynamic forces, and technical documentation (P&IDs).

EDUCATION

Saint Louis University
B.S. in Aerospace Engineering, GPA: 3.4 | St. Louis, MO | Aug 2022 – May 2024

  • Leadership Roles: President, SLU Rocket Propulsion Lab (2024); Vice President, SLU Rocket Propulsion Lab (2023-2024); Spaceport America Cup Team Captain with nine people

  • Key Projects: Hybrid rocket engine design and testing; Project Groundbreaker; Spaceport America Cup 2024. Completed design phase for Rocket Propulsion RPA, Team Leader Solid Rocket Engine Project

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

SLU Rocket Propulsion Lab – President
Saint Louis University | Aug 2023 – Present

  • Directed multidisciplinary engineering teams for Spaceport America Cup 2024, managing timelines, budgets, and deliverables. Finished 57th out of 156 teams in international competition

  • Revitalized Project Groundbreaker, and a next-generation hybrid rocket initiative Project Northstar, by re-establishing its presence within the university and leading design and testing phases.

    • Acquired advanced manufacturing expertise, collaborated with alums working at Boeing, and facilitated Boeing’s involvement in the lab.

    • Achieved significant milestones, including completing the project within nine months—years ahead of standard timelines—and ensuring flawless landing preservation. Led development initiatives for advanced experimental rocket prototypes.

    • Published research pertaining to project Groundbreaker in the 2024 AIAA Conference

Process and Environmental Consultants LLC – Engineering Intern
St. Louis, MO | May 2023 – Present

  • Designed and updated instrumentation data sheets in Excel and received information from CAD-oriented software, enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of engineering workflows. 

  • Conducted P&ID updates using AutoCAD, ensuring compliance with project requirements.

  • Tabulated and verified instrumentation specifications from engineering drawings.

Cardinal Glennon / SSM Health Research – Research Intern
St. Louis, MO | Nov 2023

  • Initiated contact with Cardinal Glennon to be chosen for the internship. 

  • Modeled skull forces during simulated accidents using ANSYS, contributing to advanced safety research.

  • Developed up to four 3D dipole layer models for medical and biomechanical analysis.

Alpine Shop – Ski and Board Technician, Camping Outfitter
Kirkwood, MO | Oct 2019 – Present

  • Consulted with customers to tailor product recommendations for outdoor gear.

  • Serviced and repaired ski and snowboard equipment, maintaining high customer satisfaction.

  • Executed cashiering and inventory management tasks.

Self-Employed Lawn Care Specialist
Kirkwood, MO | May 2021 – Present

  • Provided tailored lawn care services, including specialized project execution and client consultations.

  • Started at zero and currently manage up to 20 combinations of residential and commercial. 

  • Purchased the initial mower and bought a truck after the first season.


LEADERSHIP & ACTIVITIES

  • President, SLU Rocket Propulsion Lab (2024)

  • Vice President, SLU Rocket Propulsion Lab (2023-2024)

  • Spaceport America Cup Team Captain (2024)

  • President, Astronomy Club

  • Eagle Scout, Boy Scouts of America

    • Assistant Senior Patrol Leader | Quartermaster

  • Member, Phi Theta Kappa | Member, AIAA