University of New Haven — BS, Electrical & Computer Engineering
Minor in Computer Science
Hi, I'm Erik Parker
Electrical & Computer Engineer (ECE + CS) focused on robotics, embedded systems, signal processing, and intelligent autonomy.
About
West Haven, CT — I design and prototype embedded robotic systems end-to-end: PCB design (Altium/KiCad), firmware (C/C++), and software (Python/ROS 1/2). My work spans risk-aware robot navigation, DSP and signal analysis, test automation, and real-world mechatronics.
Education
University of New Haven — MS, Electrical Engineering
Washingtonville Senior High School
Skills
Programming & OS
- Python
- C++
- Java
- Docker
- Linux
- ROS 1/2
- Networking
Hardware & EDA
- VHDL
- Altium
- KiCad
- Embedded Development
- SMD/THT Soldering
Systems & Tools
- Project Management
- Systems Engineering
- HW/SW Troubleshooting
- Mechanical CAD
- Gazebo
- Isaac Lab
Experience
Graduate Research Assistant — University of New Haven
- Developing a system for risk-aware robot navigation using MEMS accelerometers, real-time structural health monitoring, and custom DSP/signal analysis algorithms.
- Testing and deployment on Boston Dynamics’ Spot quadruped.
Electrical Engineering Intern — Strain Measurement Devices
- Designed multiple PCBs, wrote firmware, and developed supporting software for instrumentation projects.
- Automated multi-channel sensor test setups by interfacing with lab equipment.
Advanced Energy Intern — TRC Companies
- Built Python tools to automate time-consuming energy analysis workflows.
- Developed VBA/Excel automation for reporting and data processing.
Projects
Group Enrichment
Mars Rover Robotics Team — President, PM, Lead Engineer
- Built and led an internationally competitive team designing and constructing a Mars rover with a 6-DoF manipulator.
- Developed custom ROS 2 packages; integrated CV, SLAM, obstacle avoidance, and path planning via simulation and hardware.
- Mentored sub-projects including ROS 2 BMS, autonomous robot, and mechanical systems.
Mars Rover Team — Coach
Coaching the new team on their journey toward success.
Nationwide Eclipse Ballooning Project — Consultant, Team Lead
- Launched 30 weather balloons during Oct 2023 and Apr 2024 solar eclipses to collect weather and ozone data.
- Helped develop a balloon ventilation system for neutral buoyancy.
Study Abroad — Prato, Italy
- Volunteered in a local library teaching English to elementary students.
- Gained cross-cultural communication skills while traveling through Europe.
Academic Achievements
Eta Kappa Nu IEEE Honor Society
Inducted member of the IEEE honor society for electrical and computer engineers.
Dean’s List
Consistent academic excellence recognized each term.
Tagliatela College of Engineering Award
Awarded for outstanding performance in engineering.
Contact
If you’d like to reach out, email me. I’ll get back to you as soon as I can.
contact@erikparker.engineer