Aditya Pimplikar

A curated collection of mechanical engineering projects.

About Me

Mechanical Engineer focused on solving real-world problems through design and manufacturing. Recent Purdue graduate with hands-on experience at Tesla, Rivian, and American Axle. Currently leading DFM and automation at Rivian. Skilled in CAD, simulation, process optimization, and project leadership, delivering manufacturable solutions in fast-paced environments.

Professional Experience

Manufacturing Engineer II - DFM

Rivian

Aug 2025 – Present

    Leading DFM and automation initiatives for Rivian's upper body structures.

Mechanical Design Engineering Intern

Tesla

May 2024 – Aug 2024

    At Tesla, I worked on the design and manufacturability of exterior trims and underbody components, using CATIA v5 and advanced simulation tools to validate and optimize sheet metal parts. My role centered on creating die surfaces and running DFM studies that improved both product quality and production speed. By leveraging shape morphing and FEA, I helped streamline new component launches and reduce design lead times.

Manufacturing Engineering Intern

Rivian

May 2023 – Dec 2023

    At Rivian, I managed multiple process equipment projects during the R1 vehicle refresh, coordinating everything from design through installation and ramp-up. I led the deployment of a vision-based AI system for assembly line safety and efficiency, and applied Lean Manufacturing strategies to enhance tool access and ergonomics. My work directly supported successful production launches and the validation of new manufacturing systems.

Mechanical Engineering Intern

American Axle & Manufacturing

May 2022 – Aug 2022

    At AAM, I contributed to process improvements on the plant floor by designing and implementing fixtures, sensor mounts, and robot-assisted workflows. I worked on optimizing ejector mechanisms and enhancing quality control with custom gauges, gaining hands-on experience in both mechanical design and industrial automation.

Projects

Project 1 Thumbnail

Astranew: Waterless Clothing Sanitation System for Space Missions

NASA / Innovation / Sustainability

Project 2 Thumbnail

Optimizing Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure Placement

Simulation / Distributed Energy Resources

Project 3 Thumbnail

1933 Hot Rod RC Vehicle: Parametric Redesign and Performance Optimization

Mechanical Design / Analysis

Get In Touch

I'm always open to discussing new projects, creative ideas, or opportunities. Feel free to reach out.