Gecko Robotics Employee Spotlight: Megan and Vikram

Megan Gupta-She and Vikram Marmer joined Gecko Robotics in June 2023 as summer interns. As members of the Product Team, their work specialized in optimizing robot functionality, including developing new modules and improving data transfer and localization.

Megan is entering her junior year at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, majoring in Nuclear Engineering with a minor in Mechanical Engineering. Vikram is a Masters student at Carnegie Mellon University, studying Electrical and Computer Engineering.

Why did you choose an internship at Gecko?

M: I chose to work at Gecko because the mission resonated with me, and I wanted to apply my knowledge about the engineering design process in a fast-paced, impactful environment.

V: I chose to intern at Gecko because I liked the company's goal of protecting infrastructure. I also previously enjoyed the agency I had as an intern at other small companies, and my impression from interviewing was that I would have a similar experience at Gecko.

What were you able to take from your coursework and apply to Gecko in a new and unique way?

M: In the conceptualization stage of the design process, I was making a lot of free body diagrams (FBD) and doing analysis on loading for my own designs which was a change of pace from the theoretical problems from coursework. Since the materials I am using don't have well defined material properties, I have also been doing a lot of testing to measure material properties to make more informed decisions about design.

V: This summer, I worked with high-speed digital design, and this was a new area where some high-level concepts from my coursework helped explain why a design should be a certain way in order to yield the best results.

What is the most valuable thing you learned at Gecko?

M: I have learned a lot about the design process and how to effectively design something from scratch. Being succinct about business requirements and then boiling them down to design requirements and specifications is how good engineers tackle design briefs. Going through this process with the guidance of my mentor has definitely made me a better engineer.

V: This summer, I have become an overall better electronics and printed circuit board (PCB) designer both from having done more complex designs than before and from going through the review process. Both of these processes taught me more about all the details to consider when designing, and I will be able to use all of this information in the future.

What has been your favorite part about working at Gecko?

M: Gecko's work environment has been so rewarding to be a part of. I find myself excited to go to work every day. The workplace and the people have made my summer amazing!

V: My favorite part about working at Gecko has been the integration of interns within the company. While working throughout the summer, it’s always been easy to walk up to others and discuss anything, whether it’s to ask a question, talk about mechanical integration, or anything else related to our projects.