Andy Sottiaux
UAV Systems | Rotorcraft Design | Autonomy
Senior Engineer building complete UAV systems—from rotor blades and hardware to software and autonomy. Bridging mechanical design, embedded systems, and hands-on testing with a practical, let's-get-it-flying approach.
About Me
I'm a senior engineer who likes to build complete UAV systems—from the rotor blades and hardware to the software and autonomy that fly them. At AVX, I've designed and manufactured full rotor systems and led our subscale UAV and early autonomy work, including CubePilot/CubeNode integration and ROS2-based test and control software.
I enjoy bridging mechanical design, embedded systems, and hands-on testing, and I bring a practical, let's-get-it-flying approach to moving ideas into real, working aerospace capabilities.
Beyond aerospace, I founded HatchingPoint where I've designed and developed 7+ production iPhone apps, built modern web applications, and architected robust back-end systems. I thrive at the intersection of hardware and software, always driven by making things that work.
Experience
Senior Engineer-Program Manager I
AVX AIRCRAFT COMPANY
Leading UAV and autonomy development efforts, coordinating mechanical, electrical, and software integration.
- Designed, manufactured, and tested complete rotor systems—including blades, hubs, grips, and fixtures for subscale and coaxial UAV platforms
- Built and managed the CubePilot/CubeNode flight-control architecture, integrating sensors, actuators, ESCs, and communication networks
- Developed full-stack test stand software for data acquisition, controls, and real-time telemetry to validate rotor and subsystem performance
- Implemented ROS2-based autonomy scaffolding to support navigation, perception, and health-monitoring prototypes across multiple platforms
- Drove cross-functional execution - design, fabrication, integration, troubleshooting, and test, maintaining program schedule, risks, and deliverables
Founder / Engineer
HatchingPoint
Founded and built a portfolio of mobile applications and web services focused on wellness and productivity.
- Designed and developed 7+ production iPhone apps in Swift, managing full UI/UX and App Store deployment
- Built modern web applications using React, JavaScript/TypeScript, focusing on component-driven architectures
- Architected back-end systems with MongoDB and Supabase, ensuring robust data modeling and real-time data flows
Rotor Systems Design Engineer
Bell Flight
Designed and developed rotor systems for helicopter platforms, supporting manufacturing and fleet operations.
- Conducted thorough investigations into issues reported by supply chain, manufacturing centers, and fleet operations, ensuring robust resolutions
- Developed detailed technical data, including 2D and 3D CAD models and PLM software documentation, to support assembly and installation processes
- Enhanced product and process quality by supporting both upstream and downstream engineering activities, including manufacturing and testing
- Pioneered advancements in helicopter systems using CAD, GD&T, and 3D printing techniques, leading supplier meetings to define project specifications
Project Manager
Texas Air Systems
Managed HVAC system design, installation, and maintenance projects for commercial clients.
- Developed and grew relationships with customers, contractors, project engineers and manufacturers
- Determined project requirements, constraints, and sales team responsibilities to meet customer expectations
- Investigated concerns, implemented corrective action and communicated with customers to maximize satisfaction
Skills & Expertise
Aerospace & Robotics
Mechanical Engineering
Software Development
Backend & Data
Leadership & Management
Featured Projects
iOS applications built for wellness and productivity
LevelUp+
Track your progress. Level up your life. A personal advancement tool enabling you to monitor improvements across various life areas.
AirMD+
Monitor your HVAC system with real-time temperature tracking. iOS + hardware solution providing comprehensive climate control oversight.
Caffeine Rhythm
Optimize your caffeine timing for peak energy. Strategically plan your caffeine consumption for maximum alertness throughout the day.
Aerospace Experience
Contributing to advanced aerospace programs in autonomy, rotorcraft design, and UAV systems development
AVX AIRCRAFT COMPANY
Sep 2023 - Present
Senior Engineer-Program Manager I
Leading aerospace company specializing in advanced vertical lift technology and coaxial rotor UAV systems. Pioneering innovative solutions for next-generation unmanned aircraft.
Bell Flight
Feb 2020 - Sep 2023
Rotor Systems Design Engineer
Global leader in vertical lift aircraft manufacturing with a legacy of innovation spanning over 85 years. Subsidiary of Textron, designing and producing advanced helicopters and tiltrotor aircraft.
Proprietary Work
Due to the confidential and proprietary nature of aerospace programs, specific project details cannot be publicly disclosed. I'm happy to discuss my experience, technical capabilities, and approach to problem-solving in appropriate contexts.
For inquiries regarding my aerospace experience, please feel free to reach out via the contact section below.
Get In Touch
I'm always interested in hearing about new opportunities, collaborations, or just connecting with fellow tech enthusiasts. Feel free to reach out!