Janis Stendzenieks

Mechanical Engineering @ Rice University '29

Using engineering, science and design as a creative outlet.

Houston TX, USA / Riga, Latvia

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Experience

Oct 2025-now / Houston TX

Composites Team Engineer

developing high-power multi-stage launch vehicles

Tip-to-tip structural reinforcement using carbon fiber and epoxy resin for multi-stage
launch vehicles meant to reach altitudes of 9 km
Fin & body tube manufacturing for sustainer engine, structural assembly
Composite surface finishing for body tube and fins

Engineering Intern

worked on speed record-breaking high-power ultralight aircraft (300-400 km/h @ 340-650 kg)

Carbon composite sanding & surface finishing on ultralight parts–air intake,
bulkhead, ailerons, fuselage, fuel tank–for 3 different customer aircraft
Bonded fuselage parts with aircraft-grade epoxy resin for fuselage assembly
Machined force translation components for landing gear mechanisms–carbon tubes, joints, and more

Jun 2025–Aug 2025 / Riga LV

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Lead Mechanical Engineer

led a team of 5 to develop high-efficiency electric tricycles

Fully designed and manufactured 2 electric tricycles from recycled materials
assisted with 2 other e-trycicle development
Steering mechanism & part design/machining, frame welding, controller electronics
& hydraulic brake system setup, soldering
Public showcase drive at the 2025 Latvian Song and Dance Festival: 40,000+ attendees,
broadcasted live on National Television (~1.5 million viewers)

Oct 2024–Jul 2025 / Riga LV

Feb 2023–Jul 2023 / Riga LV

Mechanical Engineer

development of an electric tricycle @ RTU Power Electronics

Assisted a team of 10 students to design & manufacture an electric low-ride tricycle
Composite aerodynamic body & frame manufacturing, hydraulic brake system installment
Placed 1st in the National Vehicle Energy Efficiency Competition

Student Research Intern

scientific research @ RTU Faculty of Natural Sciences and Technology

paper
Designed and manufactured an optically active memory material for photonic
storage & computing applications
20 000+ datapoint analysis in MS Excel, spin-coating, acid etching, soldering, plasma cleaning
Gold-National Student Scientific Research Conference, highest score in Engineering &
Technology category

May 2023-May 2024 / Riga, LV