Yajatra Kulkarni is an alumni of the University of Iowa with a B.S.E and M.S in Mechanical Engineering.

Born in India, I moved to the United States as a first-gen immigrant in 2011. My first interests ranged widely between wanting to become a pilot, photographer, breakdancer, or a doctor.

With my involvement in FIRST Robotics since elementary school, I found a strong passion for robotics, and eventually set my aim for wanting to become an engineer. At the University of Iowa, I was able to acquire a set of skills through my coursework and projects that I hope will help me bring my ideas to life and have a positive impact on my community.

During my free time, I enjoy playing the guitar, playing pool, rock climbing, and rewatching Top Gun.

Education

Master of Science (M.S) in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Iowa in May 2024.

  • Thesis on “Kinematic Shape Sensing of 2D Plates in Bending”

Bachelor of Science in Engineering (B.S.E) in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Iowa earned in May 2023.

  • Certificate in Artificial Intelligence, Modeling, and Simulation Engineering

  • With Engineering Honors and Distinction

  • Abaqus, ANSYS Fluent, ArcGIS, CPR/AED Certified, Creo Parametric, MATLAB, Microsoft Excel, SolidWorks

  • 3D Printing, Horizontal Bandsaw, Manual Mill and Lathe, Sheet Metal Shear, Tormach 770M CNC

  • Fluent in Hindi, Proficient in German