Staff Engineer at Tesla

Fernando Fernandez

From automotive technician to software engineer. Building diagnostic systems that save millions.

Explore the Journey

From Wrench to Code

I spent years as an automotive technician, diagnosing problems by sound and instinct. Every engine told a story. I taught myself Python through YouTube tutorials after work. That curiosity led me from the shop floor to Staff Product Support Engineer at Tesla.

At the technician level, your impact stays within your assigned region. At the service engineering level, you affect every vehicle.

The Journey

2024 - Present

Staff Engineer

Leading diagnostic automation initiatives. Built 4 subsystem autodiags in production. Driving conversion from visual to Python-based diagnostics.

2020 - 2024

Senior Engineer

Discovered Autodiag. Self-taught Python through Udemy and YouTube. Traveled to service centers supporting critical tasks.

2016 - 2020

Field Specialist

Mobile service across Texas. Learned the critical importance of remote diagnostics and telemetry analysis.

2011 - 2016

Master Technician

Passed all 8 ASE certifications. Specialized in electrical diagnostics and complex system troubleshooting.

By the Numbers

$12.8M

Documented Savings

38%

Time Reduction

7,500+

Automations

84%

ML Accuracy

Beyond the Code

🍖

Pitmaster

2x Brisket Competition Winner. Texas traditional with mesquite wood. Low and slow.

🏃

Marathon Runner

First marathon: 4:29:46. Training through San Antonio greenways. No music, full focus.

🌱

Future Rancher

Planning a Hill Country ranch. Rolling hills, river access, legacy for generations.

Let's Connect

Open to conversations about engineering, career transitions, or the perfect brisket.