Asya Cara Peña is a technical program manager for robotics and automation at Google LLC. She graduated from the University of California, Los Angeles, with a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering in 2014 and is a licensed professional engineer in California.
In 2021, Asya earned a Fundamentals of System Engineering Certificate from Caltech.
With nine years of experience leading the development and execution of cutting-edge and user-focused innovations and experiences, Aysa is a creative technologist. Her skills include SolidWorks, Ansys, MATLAB, AutoCAD, Adobe, Microsoft, and Navisworks.
Prior to joining Google, Asya worked as a project engineer at Walt Disney Imagineering, where she managed the end-to-end ride design and delivery scope from early concept development to field installation for innovative ride platforms.
She also served as the lead engineer for the "Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance" trackless vehicle system, one of the most technologically advanced ride systems ever delivered.
Additionally, she worked as a research and development engineer and character designer. Her responsibilities included designing interfaces between exoskeleton technology and human performers in order to bring large characters to life.
She used rapid prototyping with 3D printing and machining to test qualitative user experience requirements in mechanical systems.
As a stretch assignment, Asya served as creative director with ESPN Creative Works, and her credits include Writer and Creative Consultant for The Walt Disney Company's The Bond: Black Writers Club.
Asya is an exceptional service provider, epitomizing servant leadership and inspiring others to give and pay it forward.
She is recognized as a subject matter expert and has served as chairperson of the Women's Inclusion Network. Her core team is "Inclusion is the Fifth Key."
