Inside Rocket Lab’s Mission to Transform Space Exploration and Rocket Launches

While traditional space companies spend billions on single launches that take years to develop, Rocket Lab has flipped the script—achieving a 70-launch streak of their Electron rocket by betting on rapid iteration, smaller launch vehicles, and learning from failure rather than avoiding it at all costs. LinkedIn Head of Engineering Mohak Shroff explores their game-changing approach in the latest episode of "Built Different” - our series that goes behind the scenes with companies reimagining how to build, scale, and innovate. Mohak dives in with the Electron rocket team to uncover the engineering and business decisions that have positioned Rocket Lab as a key player in the modern space race.

To scale faster and stay cost-competitive, Rocket Lab prioritizes exceptional talent and building critical capabilities in-house. From 3D-printed engines to advanced solar panels designed and fabricated internally, the company continually expands its expertise. Teams are encouraged to focus on work that matters most. Expectations are high, though missteps are embraced. “We make mistakes, but we really learn from them,” says Systems Engineer Christophe Mandy. “Nobody gets blamed. Instead, we try to share the lessons as quickly as possible.” COO Frank Klein adds that Rocket Lab looks “upstream” at what causes failures.

Mohak goes inside Rocket Lab’s clean room, checks out an Electron rocket, and gets hands on with a Venus probe—CEO Sir Peter Beck’s passion project. It’s a firsthand look at how Rocket Lab combines speed, craft, and bold vision to build rockets—and a future of space exploration—that are truly built differently.

Built Different with Mohak Shroff goes behind the scenes with technologists making bold, long-term bets. Each episode is a firsthand look at how builders are tackling some of today’s toughest challenges and the real-world impact of their innovations. Subscribe to the Built Different newsletter to learn where Mohak will go next.