Matthew Rampado

Hardware Prototyping and Special Projects at Skydio

San Mateo, California, United States

About

Seasoned mechatronics systems engineer with a track record of building complex prototypes, leading cross-functional teams, and delivering hardware that works in the real world. Built and tested high-performance systems across drones, defense, and motorsports—solving real-world reliability challenges and delivering field-ready hardware under pressure. Driven by first-principles thinking, fast iteration, and working on problems that actually ship.

Experience

  • Hardware Prototyping and Special Projects at Skydio at Skydio
    May 2022 - Present · 4 yrs 3 mos

    - Key engineer on the X10 drone program from early concept to production—focused on reducing technical risk, building day-0 prototypes, and driving cross-functional teams to solve launch-blocking issues and deliver key technical wins. - Hardware engineering lead on high-stakes projects—including SRR T2 for the US Army, Ukraine EW hardening and front-line testing, and DFR programs with first responders across the US.

  • R&D Race Vehicle Engineer at XF MOTORSPORTS
    Dec 2020 - May 2022 · 1 yr 6 mos

    - Developed complex mechatronics systems, including an automated manual shifter and a supercharger throttle/clutch controller, leveraging embedded controllers, sensor feedback loops, and precision actuators for precise boost and gear management. - Engineered a three-stage dry sump lubrication system with specialized scavenging and flow control to ensure stable oil supply and improved engine reliability under extreme track conditions. - Designed, manufactured, and tested mechanical and electrical components for a prototype track car and an F1-inspired successor. - Featured a modified M113K AMG engine with twin turbos, a custom tube frame chassis, and custom suspension to target national time attack records.

  • Application Engineer at ZTR Control Systems
    May 2020 - Aug 2021 · 1 yr 4 mos

    - Developed and maintained hardware family for an industry-leading IIoT telematics platform enabling real-time monitoring of heavy-duty equipment. - Built and programmed HIL automated testing tools, conducted in-depth hardware analysis (including LTE modem fault investigation via PCBA assembly failures), and delivered design recommendations to optimize PCBA reliability and performance during program scale.

  • Sunstang Solar Car Project ()
    • Control Systems Team Lead
      Apr 2019 - May 2020 · 1 yr 2 mos

      - Oversaw design, implementation, and testing of key vehicle electronics through multiple in-house designed PCBAs, including a custom Battery Protection System (BPS), motor controllers, and control boards - Architected a CAN bus network for seamless communication removing the 'drive by wire' system of the legacy car, leveraging Vector CAN for precise testing and debugging. - Integrated charging, lighting, and user interface boards to ensure reliable operation and streamline energy management.

    • Electrical and Controls Team
      Sep 2017 - Apr 2019 · 1 yr 8 mos

      - Contributed to the design, implementation, testing, and delivery of both high-power and low-power systems, alongside control software, for a solar race vehicle in the American Solar Challenge. - Applied mechatronics principles to integrate mechanical, electrical, and software components, sharpening real-world problem-solving and system optimization skills.

  • Consultant, Omnia Artificial Intelligence - Cyber Security Division at Deloitte Canada
    May 2019 - Aug 2019 · 4 mos

    - Key technical contributor to an AI-powered cybersecurity tool that predicted software vulnerabilities and visually mapped potential attack paths across networks. - Delivered precise functional requirements and collaborated closely with clients, significantly improving threat visibility and enabling proactive vulnerability mitigation.