Lydia Scrivens is an ambitious aerospace engineer with an unyielding passion for space exploration. A recent graduate from the Florida Institute of Technology, Lydia holds a Master’s degree in Flight Test Engineering and a Bachelor’s in Aerospace Engineering with a concentration in Astronautics. From a young age, her fascination with space travel has driven her to pursue a career in the aerospace industry, with the ultimate goal of becoming an astronaut.
Lydia’s journey began when she visited the Kennedy Space Center at seven years old, an experience that sparked her lifelong interest in space. Several years later, she became a member of the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA), a pivotal moment that introduced her to the world of aviation. Her journey took flight after earning her private pilot’s license in high school, expanding her knowledge and love for flight.
Lydia shares this passion for space with her twin sister, Hannah. Both sisters were captivated by space from an early age and have supported each other’s aspirations in the field. While Lydia has pursued a career in aerospace engineering, Hannah also shares a deep interest in aviation and space exploration, making it a common thread that connects them.
A Memorable Undergraduate Experience
One of Lydia’s standout experiences during her undergraduate years was her involvement in a student team that developed a unique cement using simulated lunar soil. The research was part of a project to design a landing pad for lunar vehicles. Lydia’s team modified a 3D printer to print the cement, learning about the complex properties of lunar soil in the process. The project was a valuable learning experience and an opportunity for Lydia to build lasting connections with her team members, many of whom remain close friends today.
Photo Courtesy: Lydia Scrivens
Discovering Flight Test Engineering
Her academic path led her to discover the field of flight test engineering, a specialized branch of aerospace engineering focused on testing aircraft and spacecraft. The practical side of engineering appealed to Lydia, and with the encouragement of her professors, she pursued flight test engineering in graduate school. This discipline aligns perfectly with her aspirations to become an astronaut, as space missions are, in essence, a series of flight tests. During her studies, Lydia worked on developing test plans, gathering data from test flights, and analyzing the results—skills that will serve her well in future missions. Her thesis was a study on pilot response time in the event of an engine failure during takeoff.
Pursuing a Career in Aerospace Engineering
While her dream of becoming an astronaut remains her ultimate goal, Lydia is focused on building a successful career as an aerospace engineer. She aims to work with NASA or one of the many private companies in Florida’s Space Coast. For now, Lydia is active in her community, volunteering with the local EAA chapter. She is involved with Young Eagles rallies and teaches introductory aviation classes for K-12 students, passing on her knowledge and inspiring the next generation of aviation enthusiasts.
Embracing Creativity and Hobbies
Beyond her academic and professional pursuits, Lydia is a creative soul with diverse interests. From creative writing and ballet choreography to baking and 3D printing, she thrives on making things. Her hobbies allow her to express her creativity and enhance her problem-solving skills, which are vital in her field. Lydia also enjoys reading and playing the piano, and she’s always looking for new ways to grow personally and professionally.
The Importance of Teamwork and Open- Mindedness
In her approach to work, Lydia values teamwork and open-mindedness. She believes that collaboration and learning from diverse perspectives are key to innovation. Her experience in the aerospace industry has shown her the importance of surrounding oneself with like-minded professionals. This creates an environment that fosters growth and development, which is essential for success in any field.
Photo Courtesy: Lydia Scrivens
Core Values and Defining Success
Lydia’s core values are rooted in a desire to make the world a better place. Whether through her community involvement or her work in the aerospace industry, she is driven by a deep sense of purpose. For Lydia, success is not defined solely by financial gain but by the impact she can make on society. She hopes to further space exploration by using her skills and knowledge to contribute to meaningful advancements in the field. Furthermore, she is committed to passing on the knowledge she gains throughout her career to future generations, inspiring the next wave of aerospace engineers and pilots.
Looking Ahead: Lydia Scrivens’ Path to Space and Future Achievements
As Lydia Scrivens continues to pave the way for her career, her passion for space, commitment to learning, and drive to contribute to society will undoubtedly lead to a future filled with remarkable achievements. Her journey is a testament to the power of pursuing one’s dreams and the impact that can be made when open minds and teamwork come together to tackle today’s and tomorrow’s challenges.
For more information, you can visit Lydia Scrivens on LinkedIn, follow her on Instagram, or connect on Facebook.
Published by Zane L.
