Academic Credentials
  • Ph.D., Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of California, Irvine, 2025
  • M.S., Mechanical Engineering, University of Southern California, 2017
  • M.A., Finance, Claremont McKenna College, 2015
  • B.A., Physics, Pomona College, 2014
Additional Education & Training
  • Graduate Researcher and Teaching Assistant, Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of California, Irvine, 2020-2025.
Professional Honors
  • Samueli Endowed Fellowship (2020)
  • Chevron Corporation University Partnership Program Fellowship in Energy Resources (2015)
  • Associate Member of Sigma Xi, the Scientific Research Society (2014)
  • Rose Hills Foundation Summer Science and Engineering Research Fellowship (2013)

Dr. Owens is a thermal science expert with a Ph.D. degree in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering. He offers extensive expertise in thermal/fluid analysis, thermofluidic modeling, and additive manufacturing techniques, applying these skills to complex engineering challenges for clients across the aerospace, energy, and manufacturing industry sectors. His technical background includes advanced simulation and experimental work on cryogenic hydrogen storage, active metamaterials, and 3D/4D printing of thermal control devices.

Prior to Exponent, Dr. Owens worked in the HIER lab at UC Irvine, collaborating with a variety of clients, including government, industry, and academia, on projects ranging from the 3D/4D manufacturing of thermal devices for applications in lunar habitats to designing baffle configurations aimed at reducing heat ingress into liquid hydrogen tanks. Prior to his tenure at UC Irvine, he served as a production engineer in the oil and gas industry, where he applied solutions to decreased productivity relating to manufacturing process of elastomer parts as well as machine downtime, and he was responsible for the implementation of key elements of Lean, such as Kaizen/5S workouts.

His contributions to science and engineering have resulted in multiple peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations, demonstrating his commitment to advancing the field and delivering value to clients.