About James Lee

A little more
about me.

I like building things, learning new skills, and finding a reason to get out and explore.

I grew up in Greenwich, New Jersey, and now call Philadelphia home. Moving to the city has given me a new place to explore, from its history and waterfront to the everyday experience of making a home of my own. I take pride in living and working here.

I’m happiest when I have something to learn or make. Sometimes that means a woodworking project or a rocket; other times it’s a book, a weekend trip, or practicing a skill that’s completely new to me. I enjoy the patience and steady progress that come with getting better at something.

My professional background ↗

James Lee taking a selfie from the Eiffel Tower with Paris in the background — Above Paris · Eiffel Tower · 2026

Building things

From an idea to something real.

I enjoy woodworking, 3D printing, and projects that turn an idea into something I can hold.

This wooden turtle is one of my own creations—the kind of hands-on project that lets me combine design, making, and a little personality.

James Lee holding the wooden turtle artwork he made

A woodworking project of my own.

Rocketry

From the workshop to the launch pad.

Building and launching rockets is a hobby in its own right.

I enjoy the hands-on work, the preparation, and the anticipation of a flight. There’s something special about seeing a rocket you worked on leave the launch rail.

James Lee beside a large rocket on its launch rail in a field

James Lee beside a rocket at a desert launch site

Time at the launch pad. · Starting at 1 of 2

Radio & aviation

Always something new to learn.

Amateur radio gives me a way to explore communications, electronics, and RF beyond my mechanical engineering background.

I hold a General class license, with the call sign KE2JGW. I’m also working toward pursuing a private pilot license; learning to fly is a personal goal I want to carry well beyond school.

Amateur radio / General class

KE2JGW

Communications, electronics, and curiosity.

Next horizon · Learning to fly

Golf, the gym & getting outside

Progress through practice.

I make time for golf and the gym, and I’ve been building more consistency with running.

I like activities where progress comes from practice, whether that means getting stronger, improving a skill, or simply spending time outside.

A golf course with a lake, green fairways, and a cloudy sky

A little time outside.

Out exploring

A little farther from home.

Travel is one of my favorite ways to follow my curiosity—and see the world beyond the places I know.

During spring break of my junior year in 2025, I visited Tokyo and Kyoto, Japan. After graduating in 2026, I set out on a bigger adventure across Europe: Munich; Salzburg, Austria; Dresden; Prague; Berlin; Mainz; Cologne; Frankfurt; Amsterdam; and Paris.

These are some of my favorite photographs from those adventures—the views, architecture, and quieter moments I wanted to bring home.

Canal-side buildings and a moored boat reflected in calm water — Along the waterfront

Ornate palace room with gilded walls, chandeliers, and painted ceilings — A closer look inside

Gothic cathedral towers and carved stonework against a blue sky — Looking up

Windmills beside a grassy canal under scattered clouds — Windmills & waterways

Red rooftops, historic buildings, and a river viewed from above — Above the rooftops

Rows of hillside vineyards overlooking a river and riverside towns — A different pace

Snapshots from my travels · Starting at 1 of 6