Her Story
About Tiffany
Tiffany Kahapea is an aerospace engineer and doctoral researcher with more than 15 years of experience spanning military aviation, aerospace and defense engineering, spacecraft systems, and commercial aviation. She is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering at Mississippi State University, with an anticipated completion date of March 2027. Her doctoral research focuses on developing and evaluating a hybrid spacecraft designed to collect and remove orbital debris in low Earth orbit, advancing space sustainability through innovative engineering solutions. She also holds a Master of Science in Aeronautics with a concentration in Space Studies from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and has earned her private pilot license.
Tiffany began her professional journey in 2011 with the United States Army, serving as a petroleum laboratory technician and supervising technical operations, laboratory testing, quality assurance, and safety procedures. Following her military service, she transitioned into aerospace and defense engineering, contributing to hardware development, spacecraft and payload integration, testing, and technical documentation. Her experience includes supporting aerospace programs involving launch systems, missile defense, hypersonics, and aircraft applications, as well as engineering operations within the commercial aviation maintenance, repair, and overhaul sector. She later served as an Industry Analyst and Space Lead at Frost & Sullivan, where she led research on commercial space-sector opportunities, satellite propulsion, launch systems, orbital debris removal, and space traffic management. Through this work, she contributed to nine commercially published research studies examining emerging technologies and developments shaping the global space industry.
Driven by a passion for aviation, continuous learning, and solving complex engineering challenges, Tiffany combines hands-on technical experience with advanced research and systems-level thinking. Her expertise encompasses spacecraft systems engineering, mechanical design and CAD, subsystem integration, testing and qualification, aerospace quality, mission assurance, and orbital mission analysis. She credits her determination and commitment to achieving her goals for helping her navigate a demanding career and doctoral journey. Her mother has been her most influential mentor, providing guidance throughout her personal and professional life. Tiffany encourages women entering the traditionally male-dominated aerospace and aviation industries to let their skills, knowledge, and qualifications speak for themselves. Outside her professional pursuits, she enjoys reading, crocheting, writing, watching football, supporting the Green Bay Packers, and spending quality time with her family.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Tiffany
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my goal-oriented mindset, determination, and love of learning. I have always been proactive and motivated to stay productive, and once I set a goal, I work hard to achieve it. I am committed to following through on everything I start and making sure I see it through to completion.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
My greatest mentor has always been my mother, who has been my guiding light throughout my life and career. Her wisdom, encouragement, and guidance have helped shape my decisions and continue to inspire me in everything I do.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women is to believe in themselves, even when they feel like the odd person in the room. Trust in your education, qualifications, and abilities, and let your work and skills speak for themselves. Remember that you are just as capable as anyone else, and you have what it takes to succeed and get the job done.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the greatest opportunities in aerospace is the potential to contribute to innovation and technological advancement. My passion for aviation began in my youth and inspired me to join the service, earn my pilot’s license, and pursue a doctorate in aerospace. I hope to apply my knowledge, skills, and dedication to leading aerospace companies, helping advance the industry while continuing to grow professionally.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
I value family and meaningful relationships above all else. To me, family extends beyond relatives to include the people who support, encourage, and stand by me through life’s challenges. I deeply appreciate these connections and believe that having a strong support system is essential to both personal happiness and professional growth.
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