The Tripoli Rocketry Association is pleased to announce the appointment of Ben Murdock as Co-Chair of the Tripoli Class 3 Review Committee, where he will serve alongside Greg Deputy, who is continuing in his role as Co-Chair. Ben will act as the primary liaison between applicants and the committee, helping guide projects through the review process and ensuring strong communication between flyers and reviewers.
Ben will be stepping into the position previously held by Kevin Trojanowski, who is stepping down after many years of dedicated service. We are deeply grateful for Kevin’s expertise, steady leadership, and commitment, which have been instrumental in supporting countless flyers and advancing the work of the committee.
Ben brings a strong mix of academic achievement, hands-on rocketry leadership, and aerospace engineering experience to his new role. He is currently pursuing his Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering at Purdue University, where his graduate research continues to expand his expertise in combustion and propulsion. Previously, Ben served as President of Wildcat Rocketry at Kansas State University, where he led the design, construction, and launch of complex high-power rockets for collegiate competitions nationwide.
Ben gained valuable industry experience as a Project Engineering Intern at General Atomics, supporting advanced defense and aerospace systems including unmanned aerial vehicles. He is also a Tripoli Level 3 Certified flyer, giving him firsthand experience with high-power rocketry at the highest certification level.
Beyond engineering and rocketry, Ben has a long history of service and leadership through his work with the Boy Scouts of America as an Assistant Scoutmaster and Merit Badge Counselor, further demonstrating his commitment to mentoring and guiding the next generation.
The Class 3 Review Committee plays a vital role in advancing the state of amateur rocketry by reviewing and approving complex projects that exceed standard Class 2 limits. The committee ensures safety, provides technical guidance, and enables members to push the boundaries of experimental rocketry. More information about the committee and its role can be found at the Class 3 Flight Review page.
We ask for your patience as Ben gets up to speed with the committee’s systems and processes. He is eager to step into this role and contribute, and we are confident he and Greg will provide strong leadership for the team.
Please join us in welcoming Ben Murdock as Co-Chair and in thanking Kevin Trojanowski for his many years of dedicated service to the Tripoli community.