Bio

Peter McDonough is a dynamic engineering leader blending mechanical engineering, physics, and business expertise in technical management and space exploration. He holds a PhD in Mechanical Engineering from Texas Tech University, where he discovered the "McGyro Principle" via research in gyroscopics, dynamics, robotics, and axiomatic design. He also earned an MBA from Texas Tech and a BS in Physics from the University of Dallas, with research in astronomical imaging, extrasolar planet detection modeling, GPS modeling, and nuclear physics. Since 2018, as Senior Manager at Amentum's Space Exploration Division in Huntsville, AL, McDonough oversees 40+ employees on NASA's ESSCA contract at Marshall Space Flight Center. He manages flight dynamics for projects like SLS/Artemis, HLS, Mars Ascent Vehicle, and Commercial Crew, delivering on some of America’s largest space efforts.. He implemented MBSE for advanced simulations, led leadership training via "Team Lead Academy," ensured AS9100 compliance, and chaired awards committees. Earlier, as Team Lead and Senior GN&C Engineer, he developed NASA-transferable software (Tree3D), secured grants, and analyzed spacecraft trajectories using Python/Matlab. Entrepreneurially, he owns McD Properties (11 rental units since 2018), founded PDQ Nails (2017–2018) for cosmetic tech, and managed McDonough Equity LLC (2013–2016) for oil investments. From 2011–2017, he taught engineering at Texas Tech, lecturing 2,000+ students in dynamics, vibrations, and controls. As TTU Innovation Hub consultant (2014–2016), he aided commercialization for tech like sepsis detection. At Southwest Research Institute (2008–2009), he modeled balloon trajectories and GPS spoofing defenses. McDonough mentors in programs like FIRST Robotics and Amentum Academy; advises university curricula and PhD committees; and is an Eagle Scout. His 20+ publications cover neutron scattering, spacecraft dynamics, and the efforts within the SLS program(see here: papers)

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