Manufacturing Engineering Technician

Miguel Ballard

I build prototypes, inspect parts, and make materials for research.

Currently at Neuralink

Previously at Tesla and the U.S. Air Force.

Based in Austin, TexasPrototyping and robotics interests

At the bench.

Prototyping, 3D printing,
metrology, and materials research.

Prototype development

I use SolidWorks and 3D printing to turn digital models into physical parts. My work includes print preparation, prototype assemblies, and surgical consumables.

Tools & methods
SolidWorks
CAD and prototype design
Formlabs & PreForm
Resin printing and print preparation
Bambu Studio
Print preparation
3D Slicer
Working with anatomical models

Metrology & inspection

I inspect parts with Hexagon Optiv, PC DMIS, and Keyence measurement systems. My background in metrology, quality, and production helps me connect dimensional and optical inspection to the next build.

Tools & methods
Hexagon Optiv & PC DMIS
Optical and dimensional inspection
Keyence
Optical measurement
Incoming inspection
Checking parts before they move into production

Materials research

I make hydrogel surgical proxies for research and development. That involves preparing materials, comparing their behavior, and improving how the finished proxy is made.

Tools & methods
Hydrogels
Surgical proxy fabrication
Process experiments
Evaluating changes in preparation and material behavior

Experience.

2026 to present

Neuralink

Manufacturing Engineering Technician

At Neuralink in Austin, I build and inspect robot and surgery consumables. My work includes R1 surgical robot assemblies, wiring harness subassemblies, and electrical testing with a multimeter. I also make hydrogel surgical proxies for research and development.

2024 to 2026

Tesla

Production, metrology, quality & production control

I worked in multiple roles, from building Model Y seat subassemblies to dimensional inspection and production control in the Die Shop. That gave me experience with both the part and the process around it.

2019 to 2023

U.S. Air Force

Korean language & intelligence analysis

I trained in Korean at the Defense Language Institute and served in South Korea as a Korean cryptologic language analyst. My job centered on interpreting information in context and communicating what it meant.

Beyond the bench.

Strength training is a regular part of my life. Away from the gym, I enjoy gaming and keeping up with new technology.

I have Dominican and Puerto Rican roots. Studying Korean and living in South Korea gave me another language and another way of looking at the world.

  • English
  • SpanishEspañol
  • Korean한국어