Tony Bautista

United States Navy Veteran

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, Chapman University

Explore my work in technology, software development, and engineering projects.

About Me

I work at the intersection of mechanical systems and software, building and testing real-world hardware that has to perform under pressure. My background spans aerospace integration, autonomous systems production, and hands-on troubleshooting of complex electrical and RF systems.

At Anduril, I execute Acceptance Test Procedures and support end-to-end system validation on autonomous platforms. Prior to that, I supported spacecraft integration at Northrop Grumman on the James Webb Space Telescope, where precision, discipline, and cross-functional teamwork were critical to flight readiness.

Earlier in my career, I contributed to software systems testing at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory for the Mars 2020 mission and have built full-stack applications using Python, JavaScript, C++, Swift, and SQL. Whether it’s hardware or code, I focus on understanding the system as a whole and making it work reliably.

I’m also a Navy veteran and former student leader, having served as President of the Society of American Military Engineers (SAME) student chapter and Director of Veterans Affairs at Saddleback College.

Awards & Recognition

Congressional Leadership Award

Recognized for outstanding leadership and contributions to the veteran and engineering communities.

Senatorial Commendation for Service

Awarded for dedication to mentorship and supporting veteran career transitions into STEM fields.

Student Veteran Leader of the Year

Recognized by the California State Assembly, State Senate, and State Board of Equalization for outstanding leadership, mentorship, and service to student veterans at Saddleback College (2017-2018).

President of Society of American Military Engineers (SAME) Student Chapter

Led initiatives connecting students with industry professionals and promoting STEM opportunities for veterans.

Director of Veterans Affairs – Saddleback College

Advocated for veteran students, ensuring access to academic and career resources in technology and engineering.

Projects

James Webb Space Telescope - Northrop Grumman

Contributed to the precision assembly and integration of the James Webb Space Telescope. This project involved collaborative efforts with international space agencies to construct and deploy a major space observatory, aiming to expand our understanding of the universe.

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Mars 2020 Rover - JPL/NASA

Supported the Activity Planning and Sequencing Subsystem Team for the Mars 2020 Rover project at JPL/NASA. Involved in software integration and testing, using advanced tools and writing Python scripts to enhance the mission's operational efficiency and reliability.

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Aurora - IOS Accesibility App

Developed Aurora, an accessibility-focused mobile application designed to enhance the user experience for individuals with hearing impairments. The app features real-time device connectivity, live captions, customizable sound settings, and ASL integration, enabling seamless interaction with hearing aids, FM systems, and other assistive devices. Key contributions include implementing Bluetooth connectivity, UI/UX design for accessibility, and dynamic text size adjustments to ensure inclusivity. This project showcases expertise in Swift, SwiftUI, UI/UX accessibility standards, and assistive technology integration.

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3D-Printed Prosthetics

Through the e-NABLE Hand Project, we designed and built free, 3D-printed prosthetic limbs for underprivileged children. Using SolidWorks, 3D printing, and Arduino Uno muscle sensors, we created assistive devices that respond to muscle movements. Working in Saddleback College’s Advanced Manufacturing Lab alongside engineers from Swift Engineering Inc., faculty, and staff, we developed functional and accessible prosthetics that offer kids mobility, confidence, and independence—at no cost to their families.

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Professional Experience

Anduril Industries - Production Technician - Costa Mesa, CA

  • Execute full Acceptance Test Procedures (ATP) on autonomous systems, validating avionics, sensors, communications, and safety systems while diagnosing complex electrical, firmware, and RF issues using schematics and test equipment.
  • Serve as a technical escalation point for mechanical and test engineers by taking redlined vehicles, performing deep-dive fault isolation, and recommending corrective actions and component replacement.
  • Support autonomous systems test-range operations, executing pre-flight validation, static fire and flight test support, live issue resolution, and post-test system verification.
  • Perform final delivery preparation, including weight and balance verification, secure configuration, packaging, and shipment to customers.
  • Train and upskill technicians on ATP execution, integration workflows, and troubleshooting to enable consistent single-shift vehicle delivery.

Space Systems - Mechanical Technician - Northrop Grumman, Redondo Beach, CA

  • Supported system-level integration of spacecraft hardware for the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), working with antennas, RF components, and primary structural assemblies.
  • Performed precision mechanical assembly, installation, and alignment using laser alignment and metrology tools to meet strict aerospace tolerances.
  • Integrated composite and metallic flight structures utilizing torque fastening, structural bonding, and match drilling in accordance with engineering schematics.
  • Developed and implemented custom tooling and fixtures to improve efficiency and repeatability of mission-critical integration processes.
  • Conducted validation and configuration testing on mechanical assemblies, contributing to environmental and vibration test readiness for flight hardware.

NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) - Software Systems Support - La Cañada Flintridge, CA

  • Developed Python scripts to parse, validate, and refine Command Surface Packages, ensuring data integrity and error-free flight software configurations.
  • Designed and executed software test plans and procedures to support system reliability and mission readiness for the Mars 2020 Perseverance Rover.
  • Analyzed subsystem test data and generated structured reports to identify defects and drive continuous software improvements.
  • Performed software integration and automated testing using Sequencer, Robot Framework, and Selenium, contributing to verification of flight and mission planning software.

Software Solutions Architect Intern - Neudesic, Irvine, CA

  • Worked with a remote and local group of interns to plan, create, test, and deploy a full-stack call monitoring software for Callgistics.com
  • Software used: Bootstrap, Angular 4, HTML 5, JavaScript, CSS, Flask, Python, SQL Alchemy, Kubernetes, Google Cloud SQL, and Google Cloud Platform.

Technical Expert - Apple Inc, Mission Viejo, CA

  • Provided expert support, resolving technical issues across various devices and delivering high-quality customer service.
  • Advised on hardware and software solutions, integrating cybersecurity measures to enhance system security.
  • Conducted team training sessions on troubleshooting, customer service, and cybersecurity practices.

Saddleback / IVC Community College - IT Project Specialist - Mission Viejo, CA

  • Led integration of the SmartSchedule 3.0 system, improving academic scheduling workflows and contributing to a 91% user satisfaction rating through stakeholder and end-user collaboration.
  • Served as Director of Veterans Affairs and Officer of Finance for the Associated Student Government (ASG), representing over 1,500 student veterans, service members, and families.
  • Advocated for veteran education benefits at the California State Capitol and in Washington, D.C., engaging with legislative offices and institutional leadership.
  • President, Society of American Military Engineers (SAME) Student Chapter — led initiatives connecting students with industry professionals and promoting STEM career pathways for veterans.