SpaceX faces suit for allegedly firing launch pad tech over disability

Things began to unravel in the fall of 2024. Phelps told his employer about his condition and that he expected to need surgery the following spring. He asked for time off to see doctors and undergo evaluations ahead of the procedure, and requested a move to a less physically demanding position. That request, the suit says, was turned down. 

Over the following months, Phelps submitted medical paperwork documenting his restrictions. By late January 2025, his physician had completed SpaceX’s own accommodation request form, confirming a physical impairment that limited major life activities, with work restrictions still in place pending further evaluation. 

None of it appeared to matter. 

On March 7, 2025, two supervisors pulled Phelps into a meeting and told him he was done. The reasons given, according to the filing, were that he had missed time from work and did not seem motivated at work. Phelps reminded them of his back condition. He was told it was his last day, sent home, and informed that human resources would be in touch. 

That same day, SpaceX offered him a separation agreement — severance in exchange for giving up his right to take legal action. Phelps later walked it back, revoking the agreement without accepting any payment. He then filed a charge with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, which issued a right-to-sue letter on January 9, 2026.