Elliot Goldberg, 32
BS computer engineering ’17
PRINCIPAL SOFTWARE ENGINEER, NORTHROP GRUMMAN
Elliot Goldberg, 32
BS computer engineering ’17
PRINCIPAL SOFTWARE ENGINEER, NORTHROP GRUMMAN
After learning to code at Drexel, Elliot Goldberg went on to architect complex back-end software systems for Northrop Grumman.
Elliott Goldberg’s first exposure to coding and foundational technical skills came at Drexel, and it was the University’s co-op program that helped him navigate early professional roles where he has shined. He’s gone on to lead the design and development of a complex back-end software system at Northrop Grumman’s Manhattan Beach, California, facility. Over 15 months, he architected and implemented a microservices-based application that achieved a 98.7% reduction in processing time for the aerospace firm. He’s also paying it forward. Goldberg mentors junior engineers and fosters a collaborative team environment through rigorous testing and integration practices.
“I take a hands-on approach to ensure they not only understand the how but also the why behind the work we do. Mentoring motivates me because it’s rewarding to help others succeed and grow. Additionally, teaching others often exposes gaps in my own understanding, which pushes me to refine my knowledge and become more efficient.”
Looking ahead, Goldberg aims to deepen his expertise in software architecture, continue mentoring junior engineers and strengthen his ability to communicate complex technical concepts clearly. “My goal is to become an expert in software design, with the ability to architect systems from scratch while ensuring they are both scalable and efficient,” he says. “I also hope to enhance my communication skills, enabling me to explain intricate technical concepts clearly to those without a technical background.”
My Greatest Accomplishment:
Leading the design and development of a complex back-end software system at Northrop Grumman while fostering a collaborative team environment and safeguarding quality standards.
How Drexel Shaped My Path:
Drexel provided me with my very first introduction to coding and a foundational understanding of how computers operate on a technical level. While college itself was challenging, the curriculum helped me develop early troubleshooting skills that I later refined through hands-on experience in the professional world. The co-op program was especially valuable in exposing me to the workplace and helping me navigate my first roles. In hindsight, Drexel laid the groundwork for my career, not by providing all the answers, but by giving me the initial tools and opportunities to grow, adapt and eventually define my own approach as a software engineer.
Where I Hope To Be in Five Years:
I see myself continuing to grow in a deeply technical role, focusing on building and refining complex software systems until I become an expert in software design. Additionally, I hope to take on more mentorship responsibilities. I’m excited about the opportunity to contribute to the growth of my team while continuing to learn and push the boundaries of what’s possible in my industry. DM
My Greatest Accomplishment:
Leading the design and development of a complex back-end software system at Northrop Grumman while fostering a collaborative team environment and safeguarding quality standards.
How Drexel Shaped My Path:
Drexel provided me with my very first introduction to coding and a foundational understanding of how computers operate on a technical level. While college itself was challenging, the curriculum helped me develop early troubleshooting skills that I later refined through hands-on experience in the professional world. The co-op program was especially valuable in exposing me to the workplace and helping me navigate my first roles. In hindsight, Drexel laid the groundwork for my career, not by providing all the answers, but by giving me the initial tools and opportunities to grow, adapt and eventually define my own approach as a software engineer.
Where I Hope To Be in Five Years:
I see myself continuing to grow in a deeply technical role, focusing on building and refining complex software systems until I become an expert in software design. Additionally, I hope to take on more mentorship responsibilities. I’m excited about the opportunity to contribute to the growth of my team while continuing to learn and push the boundaries of what’s possible in my industry. DM

