S3 E9 Scaling Mission-Critical Hardware: Ops Lessons from Space & Fusion with Darby Dunn

S3 E9 Scaling Mission-Critical Hardware: Ops Lessons from Space & Fusion with Darby Dunn

Author: Sera Evcimen February 10, 2026 Duration: 1:24:04

Darby Dunn, embodying excellence in #manufacturing and #operations, she joins the show drawing from her tenure at SpaceX building the Dragon spacecraft, and now at Commonwealth Fusion Systems where she’s helping develop a full fusion machine alongside the production systems to support it.

She brings a wealth of insight to this episode as we tackle the central question:

“How do you scale hardware operations and manufacturing capabilities?”

Tune in and learn how to build systematically, skillfully and strategically.

Connect & Learn More:

  • Follow the show’s Substack for hardware tools, frameworks, and tips.
  • Reach out to thebuildercircle@pratikdev.com if you have problems or ideas there are innovators ready to help!

Sponsors & Resources:

  • Onshape: Cloud-native product development platform. Apply for the Onshape Startup Program at onshape.pro/thebuildercircle.
  • Jiga: Direct access to vetted manufacturers for reliable hardware sourcing. Learn more at jiga.io.
  • Allspice.io: Launching DRCY: an AI design review agent that analyzes your schematics against component datasheets and flags things like voltage mismatches, incorrect pin configurations, and component compatibility. Learn more at allspice.io

Music by: Tom Stoke

DISCLAIMER "The Builder Circle” and “Pratik Development LLC” are independent and not affiliated with or endorsed by any other company. All views expressed are solely those of the guests. Content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or any professional advice. Listeners are responsible for their own decisions and should consult qualified professionals. By listening, you agree we are not liable for any outcomes.


Sera Evcimen hosts The Builder Circle™: The Hardware Startup Success Podcast, a resource created specifically for those navigating the uniquely challenging path of bringing a physical product to life. This isn't about generic business advice; it's a deep, practical conversation focused on the realities of hardware-the long development cycles, tight budgets, and complex risks that can intimidate even the most passionate founders. Each episode functions like a chapter in a vital curriculum, breaking down the concrete methods and proven processes needed to move from concept to a functioning company. You'll hear candid discussions that demystify the entire journey, offering clarity on the "unknown unknowns" that often derail promising ventures. For entrepreneurs, engineers, and builders committed to creating a successful hardware system, this podcast provides the grounded insights and strategic thinking necessary to tackle those difficulties head-on. Tune in for actionable guidance that meets the specific demands of building something real in the world of technology and entrepreneurship.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 28

The Builder Circle™: The Hardware Startup Success Podcast
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