High-Performance Engineering at Every Altitude: Joe Cavazos of HoustonMicro

On this episode of The ProtoPod, we’re joined by Joe Cavazos — embedded electronics designer, spacecraft avionics architect, and founder of HoustonMicro. With nearly 40 years across NASA, Lockheed Martin, Honeywell, and more, Joe has helped build avionics and FPGA systems for the Orion spacecraft, ISS communications, and mission-critical test equipment. Joe shares how he approaches complex hardware design, why testing is the hidden backbone of spacecraft reliability, and how small teams can deliver world-class engineering with the right tools — including his longtime use of Protocase and Protocase Designer for fast, precise prototyping. Listen now to dive into a rare 40-year perspective on spacecraft systems, embedded electronics, and the engineering mindset behind products built to last.