From Hedge Funds to Hard Tech: Ashley Pelzel, COO of Astro Mechanica Shares Lessons in Adaptation and Leadership

On this episode of the 1st10 Podcast, hosts Boris Epstein and Alexis Munger sit down with Ashley Pelzel, COO of Astro Mechanica, to explore her unconventional career journey from Bridgewater Associates to joining a cutting-edge aerospace startup. Ashley shares her philosophy of embracing serendipity, the importance of building strong early teams, and how she navigated the challenges of transitioning into a completely new industry. The conversation dives into the groundbreaking technology being developed at Astro Mechanica and the lessons Ashley has learned about leadership, hiring, and the power of curiosity.

Tune in to hear how Ashley’s journey from finance to aerospace is redefining what’s possible in both her career and the world of aviation. Some key moments to listen for:

• Serendipity as a Strategy: Ashley’s career pivot was driven by a deliberate openness to opportunities. By saying “yes” to new experiences and connections, she found her way into a role she never could have planned for.

• Feedback is a Gift (Even When It Hurts): Ashley’s time at Bridgewater taught her the value of brutal honesty. Constructive feedback, even when it’s uncomfortable, can be a powerful tool for growth.

• Touching Metal is Key to America’s Dynamic Resurgence: At Astro Mechanica, being hands-on and physically involved in the work—whether it’s building jet engines or assembling test stands—is a core part of the culture.

• Hire for Heart, Not Just Resumes: Look for people who are passionate about the mission and willing to go the extra mile. Skills can be taught, but drive and curiosity are harder to instill.

Specifically, don't miss the part where Ashley reveals how several people told her she “was not zero-to-one material” and what she did afterwards!

Chapters:

00:00 Introductions and ice-breakers

08:01 From Hedge Funds to Jet Engines - Ashley's Unconventional Career Journey

18:19 El Segundo - the (new) soul of American Dynamism?

22:14 Inside Astro Mechanica: Building the Future of Aviation

31:24 The 'Zero-to-One' Myth: You Don’t Need Experience to Start from Scratch

34:06 The Bridgewater Effect: Brutal Feedback and Building Resilience

41:57 Opportunities at Astro Mechanica & Ashley Pelzel’s Contact Details

Quotes:

• "At Bridgewater, I felt like a well-trained thoroughbred at the starting stalls of a race. [...] And I found myself asking myself the questions, ‘How far can I run? Where can I go? What can I do?’" – Ashley Pelzel (11:02)