Benjamin Channell

Staff Engineer @ Dynamic Concepts | Structural and Damage Tolerance Analysis

Huntsville, Alabama, United States

About

With over 6 years of experience in aerospace engineering, I specialize in structural analysis and damage tolerance for cutting-edge space exploration programs. As a Staff Engineer at Dynamic Concepts, I focus on ensuring the integrity and performance of NASA's Space Launch System (SLS) Universal Stage Adaptor. Passionate about advancing space technology, I thrive in collaborative environments that prioritize innovation and precision, bringing a detail-oriented and analytical approach to every project. My goal is to contribute to groundbreaking missions while fostering a culture of teamwork and excellence. At Dynamic Concepts, I lead structural analysis for the SLS Universal Stage Adapter (USA) Demonstration Test Article program, integrating and refining global finite element models to support NASA and its partners. I develop load cases, manage model updates, and provide strain predictions critical for damage tolerance testing and validation. By leveraging expertise in structural analysis and cross-functional collaboration, I help enable successful outcomes for large-scale aerospace initiatives.

Experience

  • Staff Engineer at Dynamic Concepts, LLC
    May 2019 - Present · 7 yrs 3 mos

    • Perform structural analysis of primary and secondary structures for NASA Space Launch System (SLS) Block 1B Universal Stage Adaptor (USA), ensuring compliance with aerospace standards. • Lead structural analyst for the full-scale Universal Stage Adaptor Demonstration Test Article (DTA), managing finite element model updates and supporting test planning and operations. • Integrate, modify, and maintain the global finite element models for use by customers, project partners, and NASA, supporting collaborative engineering efforts. • Developed and apply load cases for damage tolerance testing and generate strain predictions to support test correlation and validation. • Support engineering review board (ERB) activity as a stress and fracture representative for final qualification of flight primary structure. • Classifying fracture status of primary and secondary structures following methods per NASA-STD-5019. • Conduct fracture analysis and generate fracture spectra for primary and secondary structures, supporting safety and reliability requirements. • Create specialized Python tools to analyze test results and streamline FEM pre- and post-processing, improving analysis efficiency. • Collaborate with external partners and suppliers to align structural and fracture analysis deliverables and ensure integration with project requirements. • Developed a fastener analysis tool following NASA-STD-5020 methods, supporting flight analysis of primary structure fasteners. • Served as responsible analyst for GSE Transporter Ducting Frame Assemblies, Vertical Assembly Tool ladder, and Separation Test Stand reaction frame, ensuring structural adequacy of support equipment. • Supported structural certification activities by applying aerospace regulatory standards related to damage tolerance and safety compliance.

  • Engineering Intern at DYNAMIC CONCEPTS, INC.
    May 2018 - May 2019 · 1 yr 1 mo

    • Provided structural dynamics analysis support for NASA's Space Launch System (SLS) development. • Learned Craig-Bampton model reduction method for coupled loads analysis. • Developed post-processing tool using MATLAB and FEMAP's API for visualizing vibration modes.

  • Drug Test Collector at National Toxicology Specialists, Inc.
    Jan 2014 - Jul 2016 · 2 yrs 7 mos

    My responsibilities included urine, hair, nail, and blood spot drug screen collections. I was also in charge of administering breath alcohol tests. In addition to the responsibilities for drug test collections, I was a technology specialists and advisor.

  • Front Desk Manager at Best Western Suites Near Opryland
    Sep 2012 - Dec 2013 · 1 yr 4 mos

    • Trained new employees in daily operations and duties to ensure smooth front desk operations. • Resolved problems and answered questions regarding potential vacations and trips to Nashville, enhancing customer satisfaction. • Implemented efficient communication strategies to streamline guest inquiries and requests.

  • Volunteer and language training at Gemeinde Christi Hildesheim
    2011 - 2012 · 1 yr

    I was responsible for planning devotionals, activities, and camps for the children and youth of the church and community. I also held english tutoring sessions during my time there.