SSPI
This is the official podcast of the Space & Satellite Professionals International. On this channel, we release podcasts in two series: Making Leaders and Better Satellite World. Making Leaders interviews are part of our Promise2Purpose program, for which SSPI operates career education programs with student organizations in multiple countries which offer a bridge between university study and future careers in commercial space & satellite. We also work to improve the industry’s ability to engage and manage talent, and honor companies for commitment to the people whose talents make innovation happen. Better Satellite World episodes show the world why the space & satellite industry, though often invisible, is indispensable to modern life, through powerful stories & conversations with people whose work in space & satellite make a stronger economy, better society & lead to the sustainability of our home, the Planet Earth.
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Better Satellite World: Everyday Guardians - Space Habitat for Humanity
08/14/2025
Better Satellite World: Everyday Guardians - Space Habitat for Humanity
In Everyday Guardians, the podcast series of the campaign, we speak with the people who are helping to build a more resilient, sustainable and secure orbital environment - whether through technology, policy or ethical leadership. Securing the Future of Space is underwritten by the American Space Exploration Fund. In the fourth episode, we hear from Marshall Smith, President of Space Solutions at Voyager Technologies. Marshall Smith has decades of experience designing and building complex, human-rated space systems for NASA. He serves as the President of Space Solutions at Voyager, overseeing the business segment. Previously as Voyager's Chief Technology Officer, Mr. Smith lead the technical strategy for the enterprise. He continues to guide the Starlab team through the design, development, and operations of the commercial space station through his role as a Board Member. Prior to CTO, Mr. Smith served as Voyager’s Vice President of Exploration. Previously at Nanoracks, since acquired by Voyager Technologies, Mr. Smith managed the space systems division, which included commercial space station development, autonomous outpost platforms, and support systems including airlocks. Marshall comes to Voyager having served for 37 years at NASA, most recently as the Deputy Associate Administrator for Systems Engineering, Director for Human Exploration and Director for Cross-Program Systems Engineering. Smith led several initiatives that integrated innovative commercial partnerships into NASA’s deep-space exploration programs, including the Human Landing System and more. He is the recipient of the NASA Systems Engineering Excellence of the Year Award, the NASA Outstanding Leadership Medal, and the NASA Exceptional Service Medal.
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She Reaches: Women in Space, Episode 4 – A Conversation with Tess Hatch of Stifel Venture Bank
08/07/2025
She Reaches: Women in Space, Episode 4 – A Conversation with Tess Hatch of Stifel Venture Bank
In this episode of She Reaches, host Tanveer Pujara sits down with Tess Hatch — aerospace engineer, Managing Director at Stifel Venture Bank, and one of today’s most influential voices in space investing. Tess has built her career at the intersection of science and business, with experience at Boeing, SpaceX, and Bessemer Venture Partners before joining Stifel. Today, she champions visionary entrepreneurs who are transforming science fiction into reality — from satellite constellations to commercial spaceflight and the deep tech driving the future of our world and beyond. Tune in to hear Tess’s unique journey from the engineering floor to the front lines of venture capital, why she’s betting big on space as the next great frontier, and how she’s working to shape the ecosystem for the next generation of innovation. Tess Hatch (left) and Tanveer Pujara (right)
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Space and Satellite Futures: Movers in Our Orbit, Season 2 – Holding Steady: Life and Leadership after the Biggest Merger in Satellite History
07/31/2025
Space and Satellite Futures: Movers in Our Orbit, Season 2 – Holding Steady: Life and Leadership after the Biggest Merger in Satellite History
In this podcast series, we speak with friends of SSPI who recently made big executive moves. We’ll find out what they’re doing now and what they hope to achieve in their new roles in the industry. In this episode, we meet someone navigating the personal side of one of the biggest transformations our industry has ever seen. Sylvie Macraigne is a product and strategy leader with more than 20 years of international experience – from France to London to the U.S. to Luxembourg. Her resume includes Orange, Globecast, Arqiva, and Intelsat. Now she serves as Senior Principal Product Manager at SES, where she’s helping lead the company’s multi-orbit future – including integrating Low Earth Orbit capabilities into SES’s service portfolio. Sylvie joins us just days after SES acquired Intelsat – a historic merger that will shape this industry for decades to come. What does that kind of change feel like on the inside? How do you hold steady in the midst of it? And where does the future lead from here?
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Better Satellite World: Accelerate Change, Episode 1 - Signal Anywhere: Direct-to-Device Connectivity with Lynk Global
07/24/2025
Better Satellite World: Accelerate Change, Episode 1 - Signal Anywhere: Direct-to-Device Connectivity with Lynk Global
In SSPI's new Accelerate Change podcast series, sponsored by SES, we explore how creative collaboration is transforming the pace of innovation across the space and satellite industry. SES is championing a new era - one where partnerships, agile technologies, and bold ideas are breaking old cycles and building a more connected future. Through conversations with leaders in cloud, telecommunications, sustainability, and space infrastructure, we dive into the stories shaping the next frontier of global connectivity. What if your phone could connect to space? Not with a bulky terminal, but with the device already in your hand, wherever you are, no matter the infrastructure on the ground? In this first episode of the series, we hear from Amy Mehlman, Executive Vice President and Chief Global Affairs Officer at Lynk Global. Amy has shaped telecom and space policy for nearly thirty years - from Congress to the FCC, from multinationals to NewSpace startups. Today, she’s helping guide a company that’s redefining who can connect and how, through a new model of global access. In this episode, Amy and SSPI's Tamara Bond-Williams explore how unmodified mobile phones can connect directly to satellites: no towers or special hardware needed. Amy Mehlman is EVP and Chief Global Affairs officer at Lynk Global. She is a senior telecommunication professional with nearly three decades hands-on experience helping innovative companies secure favorable public policies, government contracts and secure market access by working with government representatives, industry partners, and multilateral NGOs. Most recently, Mehlman worked as VP for Global Affairs and Stakeholder Relations at E-Space Inc. where she led global policy efforts shaping the rapidly growing non-geostationary satellite market, successfully-pursued government contracts, obtained market access, spearheaded partnerships, and oversaw legislative efforts. Prior to that Amy served as VP of U.S. Government Affairs and Global Policy at Viasat, leading their domestic and international policy efforts on satellite licensing, space safety and equitable access to spectrum. Earlier in her career, Amy was Founder and President of a successful boutique telecommunications public policy firm (Mehlman Capitol Strategies) representing over 30 companies before the U.S. Congress, FCC & Executive Branch. Amy began her career at the prestigious Washington, D.C. law firm Wiley, Rein & Fielding where she represented leading wireless, satellite, telecom equipment and broadcast companies before the US Congress and Administration.
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Better Satellite World: Everyday Guardians - Great Expectations? Space Stewardship in an Age of Power and Partnership with Nobu Okada of Astroscale
07/17/2025
Better Satellite World: Everyday Guardians - Great Expectations? Space Stewardship in an Age of Power and Partnership with Nobu Okada of Astroscale
In Everyday Guardians, the podcast series of the campaign, we speak with the people who are helping to build a more resilient, sustainable and secure orbital environment - whether through technology, policy or ethical leadership. Securing the Future of Space is underwritten by the American Space Exploration Fund. In the third episode, we hear from Nobu Okada, Founder & CEO of Astroscale. Since establishing Astroscale in 2013, Nobu Okada has grown the company from a one-person venture into a global organization with offices in five countries and led the company to a successful IPO in 2024. A highly respected figure in the space industry, Nobu is an Honorary Ambassador of the International Astronautical Federation (IAF), a member of the International Academy of Astronautics, an advisory board member of the Space Generation Advisory Council, and a Fellow of the Royal Aeronautical Society. He plays an active role in United Nations forums, contributing to key workshops and committee discussions that shape the global agenda for space sustainability. Nobu previously served as the IAF’s Vice President for Space Economy and Sponsorship and co-chaired the World Economic Forum’s Global Future Council on Space Technologies until 2021. Under Nobu’s leadership, Astroscale has received numerous accolades, including the IAF Excellence in Industry (SME) in 2023, the Japanese Prime Minister’s Award in 2022, and recognition as one of TIME100’s Most Influential Companies in 2022. Nobu has also received individual recognition, including the 2020 SpaceNews Company Leader of the Year and the 2019 Forbes JAPAN Start-up of The Year. Before founding Astroscale, Nobu was an IT entrepreneur and strategy consultant, managing IT companies across the Asia-Pacific region. He successfully led one company to an IPO. Earlier in his career, he worked at McKinsey & Company and served in the Japanese Ministry of Finance. Nobu holds a bachelor’s degree in Agriculture from the University of Tokyo and an MBA from the Krannert School of Business, Purdue University.
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She Reaches: Women in Space, Episode 3 – A Conversation with Sarah “Sassie” Duggleby of Venus Aerospace
07/10/2025
She Reaches: Women in Space, Episode 3 – A Conversation with Sarah “Sassie” Duggleby of Venus Aerospace
In this episode of She Reaches, host Tanveer Pujara speaks with Sarah “Sassie” Duggleby, CEO and Co-Founder of Venus Aerospace – a Houston-based startup developing hypersonic spaceplanes that could enable one-hour global travel. With a background in aerospace engineering and a bold vision for the future of high-speed transportation, Sassie is pioneering technology that could transform how we connect across the planet. As a first-time founder, engineer, and inspiring leader, Sassie shares insights from her journey, the challenges of building something truly groundbreaking, and her passion for making space and advanced transportation more accessible. Sassie Duggleby (left) and Tanveer Pujara (right) Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a space enthusiast, or curious about the innovators shaping the future, Sassie’s story offers inspiration, real-world lessons, and a glimpse into the future of spaceflight.
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Better Satellite World: The Road Less Traveled, Season 2, Episode 4 - Heaven Help Us: Grappling with the Faith and Ethics of Space and Technology
07/03/2025
Better Satellite World: The Road Less Traveled, Season 2, Episode 4 - Heaven Help Us: Grappling with the Faith and Ethics of Space and Technology
In the second season of The Road Less Traveled series, SSPI's Tamara Bond-Williams speaks with people whose lives and work inspire us because they walk “the road less traveled,” the one leading us to a wider view of space, satellites and our quest for the dwelling of light we call “The Truth.” This episode features a roundtable conversation with Chris Impey, Distinguished Professor of Astronomy at the University of Arizona; Dr. Claire Nelson, Chief Ideation Leader of The Futures Forum; and Frank White, Professor at Kepler Space University and author of The Overview Effect: Space Exploration and Human Evolution. Chris Impey is a University Distinguished Professor of Astronomy at the University of Arizona. He has over 450 publications on education, observational cosmology, galaxies, and quasars, and his research has been supported by $20 million in NASA and NSF grants. He has won eleven teaching awards and has taught four online classes with over 420,000 enrolled and 8 million minutes of video lectures watched. Chris Impey is a past Vice President of the American Astronomical Society, and he has won its career Education Prize. He’s also been NSF Distinguished Teaching Scholar, Carnegie Council’s Arizona Professor of the Year, and a Howard Hughes Medical Institute Professor. He has written 120 popular articles on cosmology, astrobiology and education, two textbooks, a novel called Shadow World, and ten popular science trade books: The Living Cosmos, How It Ends, Talking About Life, How It Began, Dreams of Other Worlds, Humble Before the Void, Beyond: The Future of Space Travel, Einstein’s Monsters: The Life and Times of Black Holes, Worlds Without End: Exoplanets, Habitability and the Future of Humanity, and most recently Recipe for a Universe: Cosmic Chemistry from the Big Bang to You. Dr. Claire Nelson, Chief Visionary Officer of The Futures Forum, is listed among Forbes Top 50 Female Futurists. The author of the game-changing book SMART Futures for a Flourishing World: A Paradigm Shift for Achieving Global Sustainability, is a Board Member of the World Futures Studies Federation and Editor of its flagship magazine Human Futures. The Convenor of Space Futures Forum is noteworthy for her advocacy for global and space sustainability and serves as Advisor to various groups including Engineering for One Planet and Space for Humanity. A social entrepreneur, Nelson is Founding Convenor of June as National Caribbean American Heritage Month. A dynamic keynote speaker and storyteller, her one-woman show ‘Moon Runnings: The Life & Times of the First Jamaican on the Moon’ is aimed at advancing planetary consciousness. Honored as a White House Champion of Change, she holds a Doctorate in Engineering Management from George Washington University. Frank White is a magna cum laude graduate of Harvard College, a member of Phi Beta Kappa, and a Rhodes Scholar. He earned an M.Phil. in Politics from Oxford University. White’s book, The Overview Effect: Space Exploration and Human Evolution, is considered by many to be a seminal work in the field of space studies. He has authored or co-authored numerous additional books on a wide range of topics, including SETI, AI, and climate change. In addition to his writing career, White is co-executive editor of Sentient Media, LLC, President and Board Chair of the Human Space Program, a Professor at Kepler Space University, and a Curator of Space and AI information for Intro-act.
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Better Satellite World: The Road Less Traveled, Season 2, Episode 3 - Joining Spirituality with Space Exploration
06/26/2025
Better Satellite World: The Road Less Traveled, Season 2, Episode 3 - Joining Spirituality with Space Exploration
In the second season of The Road Less Traveled series, guest host Lou Zacharilla speaks with people whose lives and work inspire us because they walk “the road less traveled,” the one leading us to a wider view of space, satellites and our quest for the dwelling of light we call “The Truth.” This episode features a conversation with Justin Park, entrepreneur, technology consultant and member of the SSPI Mid-Atlantic Chapter Board who joins us to talk about his most recent endeavor, The Cross on the Moon Coalition (). Justin Park is an entrepreneur, technology consultant, and thought leader with Master’s degrees in aerospace management and computer science from the International Space University and the University of Iowa, respectively. He worked as an intern at the NASA Ames Research Center during his tenure with Accenture and as an associate for Booz Allen Hamilton at NASA Headquarters in Washington, DC. His first company, Intergalactic Education, developed over a dozen space-centric mobile apps. He was a volunteer editor for the Space Generation Advisory Council (SGAC) for five years and in 2017, gave a TEDx talk at Suffolk University on the emerging commercial space economy. He has presented at the Humans to Mars Summit, the International Space Station Research and Development Conference (ISSRDC), as well as at the International Space Development Conference (ISDC). He is a published author and was awarded the Yuri Gagarin Medal of Cosmonautics at the Robert Heinlein Flight into the Future Contest in 2008. He currently sits on the Board of the Space and Satellite Professionals International (SSPI) – Mid-Atlantic Chapter and is an active member of MoonDAO, a decentralized space organization that sent two astronauts into space on the Blue Origin New Shepard rocket. His most recent endeavor, The Cross on the Moon Coalition, is focused on bringing together spirituality and space exploration.
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Better Satellite World: The Road Less Traveled, Season 2 - Episode 2 - Exploring THE MOONS SYMPHONY
06/19/2025
Better Satellite World: The Road Less Traveled, Season 2 - Episode 2 - Exploring THE MOONS SYMPHONY
In the second season of The Road Less Traveled series, SSPI's Tamara Bond-Williams speaks with people whose lives and work inspire us because they walk “the road less traveled,” the one leading us to a wider view of space, satellites and our quest for the dwelling of light we call “The Truth.” This episode features a conversation with Award-winning composer Amanda Lee Falkenberg, creator of THE MOONS SYMPHONY (). THE MOONS SYMPHONY fuses music and science to bring lunar exploration vividly to life through cinematic visuals and orchestral storytelling. Inspired by astronauts’ profound perspectives, this symphonic journey reimagines our place in the cosmos and culminates in a powerful tribute to Earthrise. THE MOONS SYMPHONY is the result of bold collaboration between composer Amanda Lee Falkenberg, a symphony orchestra, and a team of planetary sciensists. A visionary work of music inspired by the real science of our solar system’s most enigmatic moons. This multi-movement symphony brings together NASA data, cinematic visuals, and choral grandeur to awaken a deeper curiosity about the universe.
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Better Satellite World: The Road Less Traveled, Season 2 - Episode 1 - Keeping a Legacy Alive for All Who Follow
06/12/2025
Better Satellite World: The Road Less Traveled, Season 2 - Episode 1 - Keeping a Legacy Alive for All Who Follow
In the second season of The Road Less Traveled series, guest host Lou Zacharilla speaks with people whose lives and work inspire us because they walk “the road less traveled,” the one leading us to a wider view of space, satellites and our quest for the dwelling of light we call “The Truth.” This episode features one of the great untold stories in our industry, provided to us by our guest, podcast host Joanne Higgins. Host Joanne Higgins worked in film and TV production for 13 years as a production coordinator and associate producer. Later, she transitioned into the construction industry, co-owning a company that developed and built single-family homes across LA. She’s a lifelong Angeleno, growing up in Compton and attending Cal State Long Beach. She spent her childhood hearing her godfather talk about working on the Apollo program. Concerned that this unique legacy could be forgotten, she began a journey to record and capture their experiences as a first-time podcast host.
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She Reaches: Women in Space, Episode 2 - A Conversation with Benedetta Cattani of Ecosmic
06/05/2025
She Reaches: Women in Space, Episode 2 - A Conversation with Benedetta Cattani of Ecosmic
In this episode of She Reaches, host Tanveer Pujara speaks with Benedetta Cattani, the visionary Founder, CEO, and CTO of Ecosmic. From her beginnings as a graduate trainee to a member of an all-female startup team, Benedetta’s journey is one of purpose, persistence, and passion for space sustainability. She shares how Ecosmic is turning the challenge of space debris into an opportunity for innovation—and how their commercial solution is helping ensure the future of space remains safe and accessible. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a space enthusiast, or simply curious about the people shaping the space industry, Benedetta’s story offers insight, inspiration, and a fresh perspective from a first-time founder working to make an out-of-this-world impact.
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Better Satellite World: India Rising – Building Bridges in the Global Space Economy
05/30/2025
Better Satellite World: India Rising – Building Bridges in the Global Space Economy
In this Better Satellite World podcast, based on the May 2025 edition of the New York Space Business Roundtable, leaders from Pixxel, Dhruva Space, TMT Law Practice, VegaMX, and the US-India Business Council have a candid conversation about opportunity, access, and alignment in India's rapidly growing space sector. Our speakers include: Chetan Bikkina, Chief Commercial Officer, Dhruva Space Private Limited Jay Gullish, Executive Director, Digital Policy, U.S.-India Business Council (USIBC) Abhishek Malhotra, Senior Advocate, Chamber of Abhishek Malhotra Vivek Mital, CEO, VegaMX Inc. Aakash Parekh, Chief Commercial Officer, Pixxel India is rapidly transforming its space sector, moving from a government-led model dominated by ISRO to a new era of public-private collaboration and global engagement. Recent policy reforms - including liberalized FDI caps, the launch of IN-SPACe as a commercial regulator, and the Indian Space Policy 2023 - are opening doors for private enterprise and international investment. At the same time, Indian companies are stepping into global supply chains, developing satellite constellations, launch vehicles, and Earth observation capabilities that are redefining India's position in the global space economy. Yet, foreign participation still requires careful navigation of regulatory, legal, and strategic frameworks shaped by India's evolving priorities.
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SSPI-WISE Presents: Securing Women's Future in an Uncertain Space
05/22/2025
SSPI-WISE Presents: Securing Women's Future in an Uncertain Space
Space is changing fast. Commercial activity is accelerating. Talent needs are shifting. Orbits are filling. And with the growing threat of Kessler Syndrome, long-term access to space may become more constrained than ever before. In this SSPI-WISE Presents podcast, based on the panel conducted at the May 1 meeting of SSPI-WISE, we hear a roundtable discussion between Donya Naz Divsalar, (incoming) Head of Future Projects at Magdrive; Elizabeth Kennick, President, Teachers In Space, Inc. and Genna Ng, Venture Partner, Beyond Earth Technologies and Co-Founder, Singapore Space Network.
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Better Satellite World: From Innovation to Impact - Satellite Broadband at the Edge
05/16/2025
Better Satellite World: From Innovation to Impact - Satellite Broadband at the Edge
In this Better Satellite World podcast, SSPI's Tamara Bond-Williams speaks with Ed Fox, Chief Technology Officer at MetTel. They explore one of the hot topics of the industry: the convergence of the telecom and satellite industries and what that may spell for the future. Ed Fox is MetTel’s technology leader, responsible for the planning, deployment, and operations of MetTel’s broadband, data, and VoIP network infrastructure. He is a member of the Forbes Technology Council and a contributing author for IDG influencer network. Ed has over 30 years of telecommunications and network experience managing massive organizational and customer growth at major telecommunications providers.
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She Reaches: Women in Space, Episode 1 – A Conversation with Vanessa Clark of Atomos Space
05/08/2025
She Reaches: Women in Space, Episode 1 – A Conversation with Vanessa Clark of Atomos Space
In the She Reaches series, an initiative of SSPI-WISE (SSPI Women in Space Engagement), journalist and podcast host Tanveer Pujara sits down with trailblazing women across the space industry, from founders and engineers to visionaries and scientists, who are redefining what it means to reach for the stars. In the debut episode of She Reaches, Tanveer speaks with Vanessa Clark, CEO of Atomos Space, to discuss her journey from physicist to space industry entrepreneur. Vanessa shares how she navigated the challenges of founding a venture-backed startup, the pivotal moments that shaped her leadership style, and her vision for the future of space mobility and logistics. Tune in to hear how she’s building the infrastructure for the next generation of space exploration – and the lessons she’s learned along the way. Tanveer Pujara (left) and Vanessa Clark (right)
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Better Satellite World: Everyday Guardians - Technology and Politics
05/02/2025
Better Satellite World: Everyday Guardians - Technology and Politics
In Everyday Guardians, the podcast series of the campaign, we speak with the people who are helping to build a more resilient, sustainable and secure orbital environment - whether through technology, policy or ethical leadership. Securing the Future of Space is underwritten by the American Space Exploration Fund. In the second episode, we hear from Dr. Alina Utrata, political theorist and Career Development Research Fellow at St. John's College, Oxford University. Dr. Alina Utrata is a political theorist focusing on the politics of technology corporations and currently a Career Development Research Fellow at St John’s College, Oxford University. She received her PhD in Politics and International Studies at the University of Cambridge as a Gates-Cambridge scholar, where her research examined how Silicon Valley companies have come to amass forms of political power through their control of technological regimes. Alina grew up in the San Francisco Bay Area, where she received her BA from Stanford University in History with a minor in Human Rights, and her MA in Conflict Transformation and Social Justice from Queen’s University Belfast as a Marshall Scholar. In her free time, she hosts and produces the podcast , the politics podcast about tech.
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Making Leaders: Movers in Our Orbit, Season 2 - Satellite Autonomy via AI
04/25/2025
Making Leaders: Movers in Our Orbit, Season 2 - Satellite Autonomy via AI
In this podcast series, we speak with friends of SSPI who recently made big executive moves. We’ll find out what they’re doing now and what they hope to achieve in their new roles in the industry. In the second episode of season 2, we hear from Dr. Femi Ishola, Founder and CEO of Phemotron Systems Corporation. Dr. Femi Ishola is an experienced Innovator, Entrepreneur, Engineer, and Researcher with a strong background in Electro-Optics, Space, and Satellite Systems Engineering. Accredited and licensed engineering practitioner by the Council for the Regulation of Engineering(COREN); Reg. No. R.4218. With over 15 years of professional experience in the global space industry, Dr. Femi brings a super-heavyweight perspective to aerospace engineering projects and gatherings across the continents! Founder and CEO of Phemotron Systems Corporation, a multinational new space company with operations in Nigeria, Japan, and USA. Served as a Researcher at the Japanese Space Communication Systems Laboratory, National Institute of Information Communications Technology (NICT), Tokyo, Japan. Systems pioneer and Project Manager at the National Space Research and Development Agency, Nigeria. Versatile in optical systems development, antennas, and microwave systems. Actively conducting research on Laser Communication technologies for Small Satellites, Drones, Beyond-5G integration, Beamed Energy Systems, and Unmanned Autonomous Systems. He received a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical/Electronics Engineering from the University of Lagos, Nigeria in 2010, Incorporated Phemotron Systems Ltd in 2013, obtained a Master of Science degree from the International Space University, France, in 2014, and a Ph.D. degree from the Laboratory of Lean Satellites Enterprises and In-Orbit Experiments, Kyushu Institute of Technology, Japan in 2021. His Ph.D. research was focused on free-space optical communication technologies for small satellites. Completed advance satellite design course at the Samara National Research University, Samara, Russia. Dr. Femi served as the SSPI Nigeria Director of Student Affairs where he galvanized undergraduate student exposure to space education and general STEM activities. Dr. Femi participated and contributed to the Japanese Engineering Test Satellite (ETS-9) HICALI project and the 6U CubeSOTA optical communication terminal and mission development. He also participated in the Southern Australian Universities QB50 Collaboration Satellite project. He was the Pioneer and Project Manager of the Nigerian Space Agency Centre for Space Transport and Propulsion (CSTP) Ground Control Station. Recipient of the Best and Most Innovative Project Award, SEEES National Universities Competition 2009, Kano State Government Award for the Best Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) Project, in 2011, the International Astronautical Federation (IAF) Emerging Space Leaders Award, 2019 and the grand prize winner of 9th Annual SATShow (SATELLITE). Startup Space Competition, Washington DC, 2025.
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Better Satellite World: The Space Business is... In Asia: Welcome to ST Engineering iDirect Asia-Pacific
04/18/2025
Better Satellite World: The Space Business is... In Asia: Welcome to ST Engineering iDirect Asia-Pacific
In The Space Business is... – the podcast series of The Space Business is Everywhere campaign, underwritten by ST Engineering iDirect – we take a look at the way the commercial space industry has spread itself to parts of the world where space and satellites were once only read about or dreamed of. Each episode will focus on a specific location and features an innovator who is shaping - and reshaping - the industry. In the final episode, we hear from Terry Bleakley, Regional Vice President of the APAC region at ST Engineering iDirect. Terry Bleakley is the regional vice president of the APAC region at ST Engineering iDirect where he is responsible for developing and executing strategies to accelerate the company’s revenue growth. Throughout his extensive career, Terry held several senior leadership roles with leading satellite operators. From 2010 to 2023, he served as Regional Vice President for the Asia-Pacific at Intelsat, where he oversaw significant regional initiatives, strengthening the company’s presence in the region. Prior to his tenure at Intelsat, he was the Chief Commercial Officer at MEASAT from 2007 to 2010, where he played a critical role in driving the company’s commercial growth. Terry’s journey in the satellite industry began in 1997 when he moved to Malaysia to join British Telecom. Since then, held senior sales management roles at PanAmSat and Intelsat. More recently, he served as Senior Advisor for Strategic Initiatives at Intelsat and as an advisor to Sky TV New Zealand. He is set to continue his advisory work with SkyPerfect JSAT through late 2024. With strong roots in the APAC region, Terry serves as the President of the Asia Pacific Satellite Communications Council (APSCC), a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the satellite ecosystem in the Asia-Pacific region. Since 2023, he has been leading APSCC’s efforts to advance satellite communications across one of the world’s most dynamic markets. He holds a Bachelor of Science from Victoria University in Wellington and a Diploma in Aviation Studies from Massey University in New Zealand.
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Better Satellite World: The Space Business is... In Japan: Welcome to SKY Perfect JSAT
04/12/2025
Better Satellite World: The Space Business is... In Japan: Welcome to SKY Perfect JSAT
In The Space Business is... – the podcast series of The Space Business is Everywhere campaign, underwritten by ST Engineering iDirect – we take a look at the way the commercial space industry has spread itself to parts of the world where space and satellites were once only read about or dreamed of. Each episode will focus on a specific location and features an innovator who is shaping - and reshaping - the industry. In the fourth episode, we hear from Yo Shimizu, President & COO of JSAT International, Inc., Misao Furukawa, Director, Business Development, Space DC Business of Space Compass and Teppei Kato, Chief Business Officer of Orbital Lasers. Yo Shimizu was appointed in 2020 as President & COO for JSAT International, Inc. which serves satellite telecommunication services, investments, partnership creations and research & studies in wide range of new space business field. JSAT international is a wholly-owned U.S. subsidiary of SKY Perfect JSAT Corporation (JSAT), the largest satellite operator in APAC. Yo joined JSAT (Space Communications Corporation at that time) in 2001, and has more than 20 years of experience in the satellite related business including national security areas. Currently Yo is engaged in the new business development with U.S. partners for new space-based solutions (SSA, EO, Data analysis, Debris removal, etc.), along with JSAT’s core business of satellite telecommunication service. Misao Furukawa is Director of the Space DC Business of Space Compass, which was established as a joint venture with NTT and SKY Perfect JSAT in July 2022. Space Compass will launch a novel “Space Integrated Computing Network” to aid the realization of a sustainable society. He has over 23 years of experience in the satellite communication Engineer and Business development. In the company, he played various roles including satellite communication, ITU Radio Regulation related and Remote sensing. He is now developing the Optical Data Relay service in Space Compass. Teppei Kato joined JSAT Corporation (now SKY Perfect JSAT) in 2007, handling planning and sales of satellite communication services for domestic, Asian and U.S. markets. He later engaged in investment activities and strategy formulation for creating new businesses in the NewSpace sector. In 2021, Teppei led a major investment in a Japanese space venture and contributed to the company's IPO through strategy formulation and execution. He joined Orbital Lasers in April 2024, overseeing overall business development and promotion. Orbital Lasers is a developer of innovative laser technology that carved out from SKY Perfect JSAT in January 2024.
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Better Satellite World: Everyday Guardians - Space Debris and Ethical Imperatives: A Buddhist Perspective
04/04/2025
Better Satellite World: Everyday Guardians - Space Debris and Ethical Imperatives: A Buddhist Perspective
In Everyday Guardians, the podcast series of the campaign, we speak with the people who are helping to build a more resilient, sustainable and secure orbital environment - whether through technology, policy or ethical leadership. Securing the Future of Space is underwritten by the American Space Exploration Fund. In the first episode, we hear from Dr. Daniel Capper, Professor of Philosophy and Religion at Metropolitan State University at Denver. Daniel Capper, Ph.D., is a Professor at the University of Southern Mississippi and Adjunct Professor at Metropolitan State University in Denver. Trained at the University of Chicago in the field of science and religion dialogue, his interdisciplinary studies explore environmental ethical interactions with the nonhuman natural world comparatively as well as among American Buddhists. Capper’s many publications include the books Learning Love from a Tiger: Religious Experiences with Nature, Roaming Free like a Deer: Buddhism and the Natural World and Buddhist Ecological Protection of Space: A Guide for Sustainable Off-Earth Travel.
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SSPI-WISE Presents: Adileh for the WIN!
03/21/2025
SSPI-WISE Presents: Adileh for the WIN!
How does a young woman from Pakistan grow up to become an influential community builder inside a global corporation like Hughes Network Systems? In this episode of the SSPI-WISE Presents podcast, SSPI's Tamara Bond-Williams speaks with Adileh Sharieff, Senior Director Planning and Strategic Programs. In addition to her professional achievements at Hughes, Adileh co-founded a small group called BYOL (Bring Your Own Lunch) in January 2023, which grew into a thriving community of over 200 women by the end of the year. In June 2024, she was invited to join the Hughes Women Impact Network (WIN) coordinator leadership team, where she has focused on building a supportive and empowering community for women within the company. With over 25 years of dedicated service at Hughes, Adileh Sharieff has continually evolved through various pivotal roles within the company. She began her career in Network Operations, mastering the fundamentals before transitioning to Systems Integration and Testing. This diverse experience has allowed her to build enduring relationships and make significant contributions as the business scaled its systems and resources. Currently, Adileh leads a Project Management team within North America Operations, overseeing the rollout and implementation of new projects. Her leadership and expertise ensure the successful execution of initiatives that drive the company's growth and innovation. Adileh holds a Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Engineering and Technology, Peshawar, Pakistan, and a Master's degree in Engineering from the University of Maryland, College Park.
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Making Leaders: Movers in Our Orbit, Season 2 - Doing Impactful Work for Earth from Space
03/14/2025
Making Leaders: Movers in Our Orbit, Season 2 - Doing Impactful Work for Earth from Space
In this podcast series, we speak with friends of SSPI who recently made big executive moves. We’ll find out what they’re doing now and what they hope to achieve in their new roles in the industry. In the first episode of season 2, we hear from Kelsey Doerksen, Data Scientist with the Climate and Data Environment Unit at UNICEF and 2021 Promise Award Recipient. Passionate to do impactful work for Earth, in space, Kelsey Doerksen is currently pursuing her PhD at the University of Oxford in the Autonomous Intelligent Machines and Systems Centre for Doctoral Training Program, in the Oxford Applied and Theoretical Machine Learning Group under supervision of Yarin Gal. She is focusing her research on the uses of AI and Machine Learning to enable science discovery and understanding of climate-focused applications (expected graduation, 2025). Kelsey is a Research Affiliate at the NASA Jet Propulsion Lab and a part of the Machine Learning and Instrument Autonomy group, working on the Scientific Understanding from Data Science Strategic Initiative. She is also a Data Scientist with the Climate and Data Environment Unit at UNICEF, building the data pipeline infrastructure and providing analysis necessary to create the UNICEF Children's Climate Risk Index. Kelsey recently completed her Data Science Research Fellow position with UNICEF and European Space Agency F-lab, working on the Giga Initiative to use Earth Observation and AI to map schools in the global south and their access to electricity and the internet. She is a former Space Systems engineer at Planet on the Mission Operations team, using space to help life on Earth, and co-led the commissioning of 48 satellites for the Flock 4S commissioning campaign, publishing the work as part of the SmallSat 2021 conference. Kelsey graduated from the Masters of Engineering Science in Electrical & Computer Engineering in the collaborative Planetary Science and Exploration Program at Western University in December 2019. Her thesis topic involved the utilization of machine learning algorithms for space weather applications, using in-situ satellite data. Kelsey’s Bachelors degree was in Aerospace Engineering: Space Systems Design with a Minor in Business at Carleton University, in which she further fostered her passion for one day becoming an astronaut. Spacecraft operations, machine learning, climate change and solar physics are some of her research-focused interests.
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SSPI-WISE Presents: Accelerate Action
03/06/2025
SSPI-WISE Presents: Accelerate Action
The space & satellite industry is more dynamic than ever, with professionals moving across sectors and roles at an accelerated pace. At SSPI, this has brought in a wave of new leadership, including a remarkable milestone: as of last year's election, four of our newest Board Directors are women. To celebrate this moment and , we will explore their perspectives and dive deeper into topics such as leadership, vision and the future of SSPI and SSPI-WISE. Newly appointed SSPI Executive Director Tamara Bond-Williams speaks with Kidsan Barnes, Senior Vice President, Maritime, Cruise & Ferry at Quvia, Lisa Henke, Chief of Technology & Innovation, USG at Maxar Intelligence and Tina Ghataore, Chief Revenue Officer at Aerospacelab and SSPI-WISE Chair and Board Liaison. Kidsan Barnes is a distinguished leader in the satellite communications and cruise connectivity industries. She currently serves as the Senior Vice President of Cruise & Ferry at Quvia (formerly Neuron). With a career marked by innovation and strategic vision, Kidsan has played a pivotal role in driving growth and transformation within her sector. Her contributions have not gone unnoticed; she was honored on the South Florida Business Journal’s “40 Under 40” list, recognizing her significant impact on her industry, the economy and community, and also recognized on their Influential Business Women’s list for 2022. Under her leadership, Quvia’s Cruise & Ferry division has seen remarkable advancements, solidifying its position as a leader in the fast-evolving world of satellite communications. Kidsan’s dedication to excellence and philanthropic contributions are seen in her voluntary board roles for both SSPI and Florida International University where she gained her Executive MBA. She remains an inspiration for those in the industries she serves. Lisa Henke joined Maxar Technologies in 2016 as Chief Architect of Open Technologies and served in several leadership roles at the company before taking on her current role of Chief of Technology & Innovation, USG for Maxar Intelligence in May 2024. Prior to coming to Maxar, she was the Chief Architect for National Reconnaissance Office/Ground Enterprise Directorate/Integrated System Program Office leading ground development, cloud transformation and agile transformation. Lisa also served in leadership roles at DigitalGlobe, Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman. She is a proud Air Force Veteran and a certified Green Belt with an MBA with technology management emphasis and a variety of certifications, including Agile, Architecture and Systems Engineering and MBSE. Tina Ghataore joined Aerospacelab in August 2023 as Group Chief Strategy and Revenue Officer, and CEO of Aerospacelab's new North American branch. Prior to joining the fast-growing international startup specialized in designing, manufacturing and operating small satellites, Tina served as Chief Commercial Officer of Mynaric and President of Mynaric USA where she led the company’s efforts to position Mynaric as the preferred laser communication provider for aerospace application for both government and commercial markets. In 2022, Tina's contribution to the aerospace industry was recognized by both the public and industry peers alike when she was voted Via Satellite's "Satellite Executive of the Year," accepting her award in front of a select audience at the industry's leading annual conference SATELLITE 2022.
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Better Satellite World: Dr. David Parker FRAeS, 2024 Satellite Personality of the Year
02/28/2025
Better Satellite World: Dr. David Parker FRAeS, 2024 Satellite Personality of the Year
The United Kingdom’s robust and ambitious space sector has many personalities. Each year at the Better Satellite World Awards Dinner in December in London, the SSPI UK Chapter recognizes one of them as the . In this podcast, we hear from the 2024 honoree, Dr. David Parker FRAeS, Non-Executive Board Member of the UK Space Agency and Visiting Professor at the University of Southampton. This interview was originally broadcast as part of the Personalities of the Space & Satellite Industry podcast series, which aired before Dr. Parker was named the 2024 Satellite Personality of the Year. Dr. David Parker has led a distinguished thirty-five-year career in the space sector, spanning industry, UK government and the European Space Agency (ESA). Until June 2023, he served as ESA’s Director of Space Exploration at ESTEC in the Netherlands, overseeing astronaut missions to the International Space Station, Europe’s involvement in Artemis and pioneering projects like training an astronaut with a physical disability. Previously, he was the Chief Executive of the UK Space Agency (2013-2016), where he led Tim Peake’s ISS mission and negotiated ESA’s first UK center in Harwell. Starting in the UK space industry in 1990, he contributed to projects like XMM-Newton and ExoMars. Dr. Parker holds a degree in Aeronautics and Astronautics and a PhD from NASA Langley Research Center. He has received several accolades, including the Royal Aeronautical Society’s Geoffrey Pardoe award. He currently works part-time at ESA, serves on the UK Space Agency Board and is a Visiting Professor at the University of Southampton.
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Better Satellite World: The Space Business is... In Bahrain: Welcome to Bahrain National Space Agency
02/21/2025
Better Satellite World: The Space Business is... In Bahrain: Welcome to Bahrain National Space Agency
In The Space Business is... – the podcast series of campaign, underwritten by ST Engineering iDirect – we take a look at the way the commercial space industry has spread itself to parts of the world where space and satellites were once only read about or dreamed of. Each episode will focus on a specific location and features an innovator who is shaping - and reshaping - the industry. In the third episode, we hear from two from the Bahrain National Space Agency: Aysha Alharam, Chief Satellite Design Department and Yaqoob Alqassab, Space Engineering Specialist. Aysha Alharam is Chief Satellite Design Department for the National Space Science Agency (NSSA) of Bahrain. She began her career in 2018 when she was selected as one of the nine first members of the Bahrain Space Team, a position that had over 4,000 other applicants. As the first Bahraini space engineer leading the team, Aysha served as project manager, idea innovator and software developer for the “Aman” payload project, which won the prestigious Payload Hosting Initiative – organized by the United Nations Office of Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA) and Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Center (MBRSC) in 2022 – out-competing space agencies, companies, universities and research centers from over 100 countries. The Aman payload project showcases Eng, which focuses on securing satellite data through a novel cybersecurity encryption algorithm based on FPGA and parallel processing technology. Aysha personally developed the idea of the AI-based image processing system that will be onboard the first Bahraini satellite, “AlMunther,” the first of its kind in the Middle East region. She completed her education with two Masters degrees, one in Electrical and Computer Engineering with a concentration in space technology from Khalifa University in the UAE and one in Information Technology and Computer Science from the University of Bahrain. Yaqoob Alqassab is a Space Engineering Specialist at the Bahrain National Space Science Agency (NSSA). He joined NSSA in 2019 as a Senior Engineer and was promoted to his current position in 2024 in recognition of his dedication and impressive job performance. Yaqoob has cultivated a diverse skillset, including expertise in satellite engineering, Attitude Determination and Control Subsystem (ADCS) programming, structural and thermal analyses, system analysis and mission analysis. While working for NSSA, Yaqoob developed the first Bahraini software in space for ADCS as part of his work on Light-1, a 3U CubeSat designed to detect Terrestrial Gamma-ray Flashes and the first joint project between Bahrain and the UAE. Yaqoob contributed significantly to the launch of DhabiSat, a 2U CubeSat created to test novel ADCS algorithms in space, for which he served as both an ADCS software programmer and structural integrity analyst. He also worked on AlMunther, a 3U CubeSat aimed at capturing medium-resolution images of Bahrain and testing Bahraini AI and cybersecurity innovations in space. He completed his Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering at the University of Bahrain and his Master’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering from Khalifa University.
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Better Satellite World: Ad Astra - Remembering Jim Oliver
02/13/2025
Better Satellite World: Ad Astra - Remembering Jim Oliver
On February 7, 2025, the space & satellite industry lost a giant. Jim Oliver, Founder, Owner and CEO of AvL Technologies and a member of the Space & Satellite Hall of Fame, was known throughout the industry as a pioneer, mentor, innovative design engineer and wildly successful entrepreneur. The innovations he brought to the satellite ground segment have been instrumental in freeing the satellite antenna from its fixed base and moving it out into the field for users from broadcasting and disaster relief to government and military. The world has gained in knowledge, lives saved, health restored and greater safety and security as a result. In honor of his lifetime of contributions to our industry, SSPI is taking this week to rebroadcast an interview from the Risk podcast series, in which Jim shared his experiences taking risks as an entrepreneur and never giving up the passion required to succeed.
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Better Satellite World: What It Takes to Make a Better World - A Conversation with Hughes' Dan Losada
02/07/2025
Better Satellite World: What It Takes to Make a Better World - A Conversation with Hughes' Dan Losada
On the night of December 2, 2024 in London, SSPI and its UK Chapter held their annual Dinner to present to three individuals and organizations that have made the world a far better place through their efforts. In this podcast series, you will hear their stories. The third episode features Dan Losada, Vice President, International Division at Hughes, who joins us to discuss Hughes' role in bringing internet access to some of the most isolated communities in Colombia through Juntas de Internet - Comunidades de Conectividad. Dan Losada, vice president at Hughes, leads the company’s international sales team, responsible for satellite broadband systems sales around the globe, and maintaining the company’s competitive edge as the world’s leading VSAT provider. Prior to assuming leadership of the international sales team, Dan was senior director of the Hughes Defense and Intelligence Systems Division (DISD), supporting the U.S. military during its transition to Internet Protocol (IP)-based broadband systems. Previously, Dan held positions in microwave and RF systems design at Hughes and TRW, Inc. (now part of Northrop Grumman). Earlier in his career, Dan served as a technical consultant for Universidad Antonio Narino in Bogotá, Colombia, overseeing deployment of a point-to-multipoint network and evaluating proposals for the implementation of a city-wide WLAN Wireless Network. A certified Project Management Professional (PMP), Dan holds both a Bachelor and Master of Science in Electrical Engineering from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. He has published papers on communication systems and design and speaks frequently at industry conferences and panels worldwide. Hughes, with Microsoft and the Colombian government, brought internet access to some of the most isolated communities in Colombia through Juntas de Internet – Comunidades de Conectividad (Internet Connectivity Communities). According to the Wireless Broadband Alliance, more than four billion people globally remain without internet access, including 80% of households in poorer countries and 75% of students in rural areas. The Colombian government laid the groundwork for Juntas de Internet in July 2023 with the backing of the country’s Ministry of Information and Communication Technologies (MinTIC). The program was established to both enhance existing networks and build new ones. Internet implementation, connection, and maintenance is a joint effort between connectivity communities and regional internet service providers (ISPs). Connectivity communities are non-profit organizations whose income is exclusively used for the administration, operation, and maintenance of fixed community internet service. Hughes, serving as a regional ISP, partnered with Microsoft on Juntas de Internet.
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Better Satellite World: What It Takes to Make a Better World - A Conversation with Speedcast's Will Mudge
01/31/2025
Better Satellite World: What It Takes to Make a Better World - A Conversation with Speedcast's Will Mudge
On the night of December 2, 2024 in London, SSPI and its UK Chapter held their annual Dinner to present to three individuals and organizations that have made the world a far better place through their efforts. In this podcast series, you will hear their stories. The second episode features Will Mudge, Executive Vice President and Chief Technology Officer of Speedcast, who joins us to discuss Speedcast's provision of essential connectivity solutions during humanitarian crises and natural disasters. Will Mudge is the Executive Vice President and Chief Technology Officer at Speedcast. In his current role, Will is responsible for managing 600 people across 44 countries with disciplines including supply chain, field engineering, IP engineering, teleports, R&D, NOC and systems engineering. He has built and improved numerous high-performing teams at Speedcast and is also an active contributor in industry panels and podcasts as well as a creator of video content and author of multiple papers. Before his current role, Will served as Vice President of Engineering Operations at Speedcast, a role in which he was responsible for a large part of Speedcast’s global infrastructure and the delivery of a positive experience to customers. Prior to his current role, Will served as the Director of Satellite Capacity and Technology at Speedcast, developing global teleport and Low Earth Orbit (LEO) constellation strategies. He also previously served as the Director of Satellite Capacity and Technology, the R&D engineering lead, and as a strategic product marketing manager and program manager at Speedcast (formerly as Harris CapRock). Will holds a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering Physics from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. Speedcast has consistently demonstrated a commitment to humanitarian aid and disaster response efforts by providing essential connectivity solutions during crises. In areas affected by natural disasters, the company has delivered reliable communications as a vital lifeline for both the affected communities and first responders working to aid them. In May 2024, Speedcast contributed to disaster response efforts in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, when the region experienced catastrophic flooding. Rio Grande do Sul received an entire year’s worth of rain in a matter of hours, leading to widespread landslides, the collapse of a key dam and many deaths. Speedcast took quick action to donate and deliver Starlink terminal kits and airtime to the Brazilian government, providing necessary connectivity to police, hospitals, the Brazilian army and various local and state government departments, which dramatically improved disaster response efforts. These quick-to-deploy solutions from Speedcast proved instrumental in reaching isolated areas and supporting recovery operations.
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Better Satellite World: SATELLITE 2025 - What Can We Look Forward To This March?
01/24/2025
Better Satellite World: SATELLITE 2025 - What Can We Look Forward To This March?
The annual SATELLITE conference in Washington, D.C. is the gravitational pull of the commercial space & satellite industry. Like every other conference, media outlet and association that gathers the global community, SATELLITE has undergone changes over the past five years that reflect the growth and wonderfully chaotic direction of the space & satellite industry. Jeffrey Hill, Executive Editor of Via Satellite and Executive Chairman of SATELLITE 2025, has taken a breather from conference planning to talk to SSPI's Lou Zacharilla about what we can expect this March in Washington, D.C. SATELLITE has adapted to many changes in conference structure and will be bringing exciting new features to the conference this year, such as the "Happy Hour Rocket Show" on the Exhibition floor. Jeff and Lou also discuss the "anxiety, both good and bad" running through the industry as it faces change after change and what we hope to see in the future. Jeffrey Hill serves as the Executive Editor of Via Satellite and chair of the annual SATELLITE conference and exhibition in Washington D.C. He is also the host and producer of Via Satellite’s On Orbit podcast and the host of Via Satellite’s technology webcast series. Over the course of his nearly 15-year career, Jeff has become one of the most connected people in the space and satellite industry. He has interviewed prominent space and technology leaders such as Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos, Richard Branson, Bea Perez, Emily Calandrelli and Charles Bolden, as well as hundreds of policy makers, investors, influencers and executives from all over the world. A native of Philadelphia, he began his career as web editor for Next City magazine, while covering city hall politics for Philadelphia Weekly and Philadelphia Inquirer. He also previously served as a director of communications at Drexel University. He now lives in Bethesda, Maryland with his wife and son, two beagles and piles of books, musical instruments and knick-knacks from countless industry events and conferences. He enjoys making Slack Emojis of his co-workers.
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Better Satellite World: The Space Business is... In Nigeria: Welcome to NIGCOMSAT
01/17/2025
Better Satellite World: The Space Business is... In Nigeria: Welcome to NIGCOMSAT
In The Space Business is... – the podcast series of campaign, underwritten by ST Engineering iDirect – we take a look at the way the commercial space industry has spread itself to parts of the world where space and satellites were once only read about or dreamed of. Each episode will on a specific location and features an innovator who is shaping - and reshaping - the industry. In the second episode, we hear from Jane Egerton-Idehen, CEO of Nigerian Communications Satellite Limited (NIGCOMSAT). Jane Egerton-Idehen is a seasoned professional Tech Executive, Author and Angel Investor. She is a dynamic executive with over 20 years in leadership roles across telecommunications, technology and satellite industries. She is currently the MD/CEO of Nigerian Communications Satellite Limited (NIGCOMSAT), leading the nation's foremost agency in charge of managing the operations and services of the communications satellite owned by Nigeria. She has previously held high-level positions at Meta, Avan Communications, Ericsson and Nokia Siemens Network. With proven expertise in driving strategic growth, fostering C-level relationships and implementing revenue-generating sales strategies across multi-national markets, Egerton-Idehen is recognized among Nigeria's top corporate leaders, with a focus on emerging markets, strategic consulting and innovative technology solutions. She was the Head of Sales, Middle East and Africa, Meta and Country Manager & Regional Sales Director for the West African branch of Avan Communications Group PLC. She cumulatively spent 13 years in Sales and Management in the telecommunication infrastructure giant — Ericsson. She also worked as a Cluster lead for Nokia Siemens Network in West Africa. Egerton-Idehen was born and raised in Lagos, Nigeria. She has a degree in Electronics Engineering in 2001 from the University of Nigeria, Nusska; a Master's Degree from Warwick Business School, US; and an executive education from Yale School of Management, US. She has worked in the telecommunications industry in Africa for more than 17 years. Being one of the few females heading key business areas in the tech industry has exposed her to numerous professional and personal challenges peculiar to women. Spurred by discussions with fellow female executives round the globe, she organized a forum at Ericsson in which emerging and experienced female leaders could support each other in developing their careers. The overwhelming success of the forum led her to found Women and Career to reach women beyond her organization and to support girls seeking careers after school. In March 2020, she published a book, Be Fearless: Give Yourself Permission To Be You. She drew from her more than 15 years of experience as a telecommunication executive in Africa to help women build lasting careers, especially in the male-dominated STEM industries. Egerton-Idehen has continued to be actively involved in speaking to girls and women about STEM careers. She has spoken at TEDx programs, the African Science Academy, Asheshi University in Ghana, and CFA’s Startups Hangout and many more. She was awarded the Most Outstanding Female CEO of 2024 by the 5th Business and Excellence Awards. She is also the recipient of the Womenovate INWED2024 Women Impact Leader Awards. Egerton-Idehen volunteers for the ACE Foundation’s Young Career and Graduate Mentorship Programme, and she is an aspiring fellow of the Aspen Global Leadership Institute. A home girl at heart, she actively gives back to the Ajegunle community of Lagos through the Sozo Network’s #BeforeITurn18 program, which prepares underserved teenage girls for life, career and leadership.
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