Luciano Ricotta
@lucianoricotta
I am an embedded software engineer specializing in flight systems and Linux.
United StatesWhat I'm looking for
I am a Principal Embedded Software Engineer with extensive experience designing and shipping flight and ground software for aerospace systems. I lead software development, architect C++ and Python applications, and drive cross-team integration with flight hardware while maintaining a strong focus on test automation and reliability.
My technical background includes Linux kernel development, Yocto Project, containerization with Docker and Podman, real-time systems (VxWorks, FreeRTOS), device drivers, and SoC integration on Xilinx Versal/A72/R5 platforms. I have implemented system-level robot tests, automated nightly regressions, and built board-specific firmware and bootloader support.
I have a history of converting early R&D efforts into large programs, improving development efficiency through tooling and automation, and mentoring teams as a deputy lead and Scrum Master. I hold a Master’s in Electrical Engineering and maintain an active Top Secret/SCI clearance.
Experience
Work history, roles, and key accomplishments
Software lead for flight application and hardware integration; architected containerized C++ and Python flight/ground applications, designed automated system-level robot tests, and developed a Yocto-based Linux for a Xilinx VCK190 validating inter-processor communication with iperf.
Deputy Team Lead for flight application development; built a patch automation tool that replaced a manual multi-week process, led an IRAD to enable containers in flight software that evolved into a multi-million-dollar program, and instituted automated unit and system tests to accelerate bug detection.
Graduate Teaching Assistant
University of Wisconsin - Madison
Jan 2019 - May 2020 (1 year 4 months)
Held office hours, ran discussion sections, and created and graded assignments and exams for CS 354 and CS 252, supporting coursework in machine organization and programming.
Embedded Systems Co-op
Extreme Engineering Solutions
May 2019 - Dec 2019 (7 months)
Designed and executed tests for OS and bootloaders (Linux, VxWorks, UEFI, U-Boot) on embedded boards and supported board bring-up and validation for embedded systems.
Education
Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework
University of Wisconsin - Madison
Master of Science, Electrical Engineering
Grade: 3.6/4.0
Activities and societies: Emphasis in Computer Architecture and Machine Learning
Completed M.S. in Electrical Engineering with emphasis in Computer Architecture and Machine Learning; GPA 3.6/4.0, conferred August 2020.
Loras College
Bachelor of Science, Computer Science and Engineering
Grade: 3.7/4.0
Activities and societies: Honors: Magna Cum Laude
Completed B.S. in Computer Science and Engineering, graduated May 2018 with Magna Cum Laude and GPA 3.7/4.0.
Availability
Location
United StatesAuthorized to work in
Job categories
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