Speakers
NEW ZEALAND AEROSPACE SUMMIT 2025
Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre
Ōtautahi Christchurch / 7-8 October
LET US INTRODUCE OUR
Summit Speakers
More speakers to come - our programme is being finalised. Check back for further updates.
Dr David Alexander is a Professor in Astrophysics at Rice University and serves as the Director of the Rice Space Institute
David Alexander is a Professor in Astrophysics at Rice University and serves as the Director of the Rice Space Institute. He joined the faculty at Rice in 2003 from Lockheed Martin. Dr Alexander received a Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers in 2004, was appointed a Kavli Frontiers Fellow by the National Academy of Sciences in 2006, named a GlobalScot by the Scottish government in 2017 and received an OBE in June 2018 for services to the space industry at home and abroad. He has held many leadership roles including Chair of the Solar Physics Division of the American Astronomical Society, and Chair of the Aerospace Industry Committee of the Greater Houston Partnership. He currently serves on the board of directors of the Houston Spaceport Development Corporation and on the Texas Aerospace Research and Space Economy Consortium Executive Committee. He was recently named a Faculty Scholar at Rice’s Baker Institute for Public Policy.
WGCDR Chris Andrew, New Zealand Defence Aviation Authority
Wing Commander Chris Andrew enlisted into the RNZAF in June 1994 as a direct entrant Pilot. After graduation from Wings Course in August 1996 he was posted to Number 3 SQN RNZAF to commence helicopter conversion on the B47-G Sioux and later completed operational conversion on the UH-1H Iroquois.
While posted to 3 SQN, WGCDR Andrew completed operational deployments on Operation Bel Isi (Bougainville) and Operation Farina (INTERFET East Timor). WGCDR Andrew also completed several non-operational deployments to Fiji, Australia and Antarctica while on 3 SQN.
WGCDR Andrew has Commanded Flying Training Wing at Ohakea and Number 3 Squadron as well as numerous Staff appointments over the last few years.
WGCDR Andrew is currently appointed to the Defence Aviation Authority (DAA) where he is about to take over the position of Operating Airworthiness Authority.
WGCDR Andrew is married to Val and has two children, Emily and Cameron.
Max Arshavsky, CEO and Founder, Zenno Astronautics
Max studied physics, mathematics and engineering in Russia’s most elite lyceum under the Moscow Engineering Physics Institute (National Research Nuclear University) and is a multi-prize winner of ROSATOM mathematics and physics Olympiads. Max continues his studies in the University of Auckland’s school of Enginering where he concertrated on Biomedical Engineering and Engineering Science before beginning his work on Zenno.
Sir Peter Beck, CEO, Rocket Lab
Sir Peter Beck is the founder, President and Chief Executive Officer of Rocket Lab. Since founding the company in 2006, Peter has grown it into a global organization that develops and launches advanced rockets, satellites and spacecraft. Peter has served on Rocket Lab's board of directors, and as its President and Chief Executive Officer since July 2013 and was appointed Chairman of the Board in May 2021.
From 2013, Peter led the development of the Electron Sir Peter's leadership, Rocket Lab pioneered advanced aerospace manufacturing techniques for Electron, including 3D printed rocket engines, electric-pump-fed rocket engines and fully carbon composite fuel tanks. Peter also led the development of our private orbital launch site, Launch Complex 1, located in Mahia, New Zealand, which required the establishment of an international treaty and legislation to enable Rocket Lab to use U.S. launch and spacecraft technology that otherwise would not be permitted for launches from foreign soil.
Prior to founding Rocket Lab, Peter began his career in 1993 with an apprenticeship as precision engineer at global appliance manufacturer Fisher & Paykel, before moving into production machinery design, product design and analysis. He later went to a government research institute in 2003 where he focused on advanced composites structures and materials for high performance applications. While at the government lab, Peter led several complex engineering programs to optimize technologies including wind turbines and superconductors. In his own time, Peter began building rockets at an early age, steadily increasing their size and complexity. In 2006, Peter founded Rocket Lab and led its efforts to successfully launch Atea-1 in 2009, which we believe is the first commercially-developed rocket to reach space from the Southern Hemisphere.
An award-winning engineer, Peter has been presented with the Gold Medal from the Royal Aeronautical Society, Meritorious Medal from the New Zealand Division of the Royal Aeronautical Society and Cooper Medal and Pickering Medal from the Royal Society of New Zealand. In addition, in recognition of Peter's outstanding contributions to aerospace, entrepreneurship and technical innovation he was appointed as an adjunct professor in aerospace engineering by the University of Auckland. In 2024 Peter was made a Knight Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to the aerospace industry, business and education.
Emily Bilbao, Vice President for Policy and Engagement, Reflect Orbital
Emily Bilbao is the Vice President for Policy and Engagement at Reflect Orbital where she oversees the company’s government and public engagement portfolios. Her experience spans the Brookings Institution, U.S. Department of State, and U.S. Department of Defense. At the White House Office of Management and Budget she oversaw federal programs in international development and economic security, deepening her commitment harnessing emerging technologies and bold innovation to help power human progress.
Following government service, she worked in technology transfer at Arizona State University (ASU), supporting commercialization opportunities for early-stage technologies and led cross-functional initiatives at a fintech company, Blend Labs, through its IPO.
Emily holds a BA from Hamilton College, an MPA from Princeton University, and served as a Fulbright Scholar in Turkey.
Stella Belliss, Researcher - Remote Sensing and Capability Leader, Geospatial & Remote Sensing, New Zealand Institute for Bioeconomy Science Limited
Stella Belliss studied to be a palaeontologist but has spent almost all her working career in remote sensing, starting with analysing Landsat-1 and -2 imagery in the late 1970’s. For some time, she was also the NZ agent for many of the commercial satellite companies especially SPOTImage, EOSAT, Radarsat International, and NASDA. Although she has been involved in research projects using both optical and synthetic aperture radar data, her main focus has been on applying remotely sensed satellite imagery to the mapping and monitoring needs of New Zealand clients. These range from national mapping projects such as the land cover databases, down to farm-scale issues.
Angus Blair, General Partner, Outset Ventures
Angus has originated and led dozens of investments into early stage deep tech ventures on behalf of Outset Fund I and co-leads the investment team for Outset Fund II. Prior to joining Outset, he was a founder and product leader working extensively in design, sports-tech and artificial intelligence; including collaborations with Intel, Oakley, and New Balance. He was also a coach for New Zealand Powerlifting and has himself competed internationally including medalling at the Commonwealth Champs in 2015. Angus has lived in France, China, and New Zealand. Angus is a chartered member of the Institute of Directors and sits on the board of OpenStar, Red Phase Technologies, and Wellumio.
Grégoire Bourban, Head of Space Exchange Switzerland
Grégoire Bourban is Head of Space Exchange Switzerland (SXS) within the Vice-Presidency for Innovation and Impact (VPI) at the École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL).
Funded by the Swiss Space Office (SSO) of the State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation (SERI), SXS promotes space activities in Switzerland and supports the national space ecosystem in preparing for future challenges. The initiative is implemented by EPFL (Leading House) in collaboration with ETH Zürich, the University of Zürich, the Fachhochschule Nordwestschweiz (FHNW), and the Università della Svizzera Italiana (USI).
Before leading SXS, Grégoire served as Deputy Director of the Swiss Space Center, where he was responsible for institutional affairs and relations with both the European Space Agency (ESA) and the Swiss Space Office.
He holds a Master’s degree in Micro-Engineering from EPFL and an Executive MBA in Management of Technology (EPFL - UNIL HEC)
Stephen Burrows, Chief Executive, NZAero
Stephen is the Chief Executive of NZAero, New Zealand’s only commercial aircraft manufacturer. Specialists in XSTOL – Extremely Short Take-off and Landing aircraft capable of operating in the world’s most challenging environments and providing aerospace manufacturing solutions and capability.
With thirty years of aerospace engineering experience in manufacturing, maintenance and compliance, Stephen has held roles with Pacific Aerospace Corporation, Aeromotive Limited, Oceania Aviation and Pacific Aerospace Limited.
Stephen is passionate about developing a sustainable aerospace design and manufacturing capability in New Zealand by creating training and career pathways and promoting aerospace manufacturing as a career to our future generations.
John Cater, Professor of Aerospace Engineering, University of Canterbury
John Cater is the Professor of Aerospace Engineering at the University of Canterbury where he teaches aircraft flight mechanics and spaceflight. He is an active researcher and has published works on high-speed aerodynamics, aerospace materials, and plasma propulsion systems. He is currently a member of the team developing free-space optical communications in New Zealand; using lasers to send and receive information from low Earth orbit.
Gerard Dale, Corporate and Commercial Partner, Dentons
Gerard is a Corporate and Commercial Partner at Dentons in New Zealand. He is a seasoned corporate and commercial lawyer with over 26 years’ direct and extensive experience in all aspects of corporate and commercial law, which includes aerospace, defense, technology transfer, international manufacturing and production, contract delivery, mergers and accusations and public and private equity investment. Gerard has significant experience working with organisations of all shapes and sizes. His ability to understand his client, solve commercial challenges in a transaction, coupled with his knowledge of their commercial positions assists them in achieving their objectives and desired outcomes.
Dr. Priyanka Dhopade, Senior Lecturer, Sustainable Space Initiative (SSI), University of Auckland
Dr. Priyanka Dhopade is a Senior Lecturer at the University of Auckland, where she leads the Sustainable Space Initiative (SSI) in Aotearoa New Zealand. Her work advances systems-thinking approaches to space sustainability through transdisciplinary research spanning engineering, science, policy, business, and law. With expertise in aerospace thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and sustainable engineering, she integrates technical knowledge with broader societal considerations to address the challenges of a rapidly evolving aerospace sector.
She has contributed to environmental policy for space as a Fellow of the Office of the New Zealand Prime Minister’s Chief Science Advisor and previously worked at the Oxford Thermofluids Institute, University of Oxford, developing propulsion technologies with commercial applications. Dhopade holds bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees in aerospace engineering and related sciences, and continues to bridge research, policy, and practice to foster a sustainable future in space.
Dr. Cheryl Doig, Futurist
Dr Cheryl Doig is a futurist, weaver and connector, often known as the #futuresaunty. She facilitates foresight workshops and programmes focused on anticipating futures for organisations and industries. Cheryl is part of many global projects connected with intergenerational ambition and future generations. She is co-designer of the Aotearoa Futures Barometer and the Aotearoa Futures Forum and coordinates futures networks across Ōtautahi, Aotearoa and Oceania. Cheryl is one of 12 futurists globally to be chosen to support the Dubai Future Forum and Awards 2025/26..
Thomas Dowling, Earth Observation Lab Lead
Thomas Dowling is a remote sensing specialist who focuses on the environmental challenges we face today, with a particular interest in the maritime. Thomas started his studies in Physical Geography at Durham (UK), before moving on to a master’s in environmental science at Cambridge (UK). Since finishing a PhD in glaciology (Lund, Sweden) he has worked in commercial geospatial intelligence, before moving back into academia with a focus on the validation and application of remotely sensed data (land surface temperature) at King’s College London (KCL). These projects involved collaboration with ILRI, NASA-JPL and ESA, working in diverse environments from East Africa to China and across Europe. After KCL, he continued work on land surface temperature at the UK's National Centre for Earth Observation (NCEO). Most recently, he has spent time working in the maritime domain before taking up the post of lecturer at the University of Auckland.
Dr Carolina Durrant, Acting Manager Aviation, Te Manatū Waka Ministry of Transport, Chief Revenue Officer, Vast Space
Carolina is the acting Manager Aviation at the Ministry of Transport. She is an experienced public sector professional leading strategy, policy development and legislative change. She has been at the Ministry of Transport since 2021. Prior to that, she has held management roles at the Department of Corrections, the New Zealand Transport Agency and the Department of Prime Minister and the Cabinet. In addition to policy, Carolina has a background and interest in human factors, with a PhD in Psychology.
Michael Edmonds, Chief Commercial Officer, Blue Origin
Michael Edmonds is the Chief Commercial Officer at Blue Origin, a private space company working to radically reduce the cost of access to space and harness its vast resources for the benefit of Earth. Michael leverages his passion for and experience in space, STEAM, business, learning, and people development to lead Blue Origin’s Government Relations, Marketing, Communications, Sales, Strategy, Astronaut Experience, and Corporate Development functions. He is also President of Blue Origin’s nonprofit, Club for the Future, whose mission is to inspire and mobilize future generations to pursue careers in STEAM. Michael joined Blue Origin in 2018 after working at Honeywell for 18 years, where he most recently served as President of the Aerospace Services & Connectivity Business. At Honeywell, Michael held roles across multiple functions in the United States and abroad, including General Management, Supply Chain, Operations, Finance, Marketing, Customer Experience, and Business Development. He is a frequent speaker at STEAM and space events and can be found traveling the world to engage with audiences on how space benefits Earth. Michael has a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Illinois State University and earned his Master of Business Administration from the University of Illinois.
Alistair Egan, Co-founder, Extera Design Corp
Alistair Egan, co-founder of Extera Design Corp, is an experienced product manager with a background in software and hardware releases across the UK, US, and New Zealand. He played key roles in two US tech startups and spent over 20 years in R&D at the US locations for Hitachi and Canon. With expertise from programming to product management, Alistair excels at bringing products to market. He holds engineering and marketing degrees from Auckland University and UCLA, is internationally certified in marketing, and oversees the transition of products from R&D to market at Extera Design.
Alec Forsman, Deputy Chief Engineer for Advanced Space
Alec Forsman currently serves as the Deputy Chief Engineer for Advanced Space who owns and operates the CAPSTONE mission. Within this role, he is also the Chief Engineer for the CAPSTONE program and has worked on the mission for the last 6 years from proof of concept to its current operations. He also has extensive background in Lunar communications where he specializes in designing spacecraft communication systems to operate with Earth based ground stations.
Thomas Galbraith, Electronics Team Lead, Dawn Aerosapce
Thomas Galbraith leads the Electronics Team at Dawn Aerospace, directing the development and delivery of all electronics for the company’s in-space propulsion systems. He is responsible for taking products from concept through to final flight acceptance, while establishing Dawn’s internal design processes, production standards, and building the team to deliver them.
He leads a skilled team responsible for designing, producing, and testing every electron-carrying component in Dawn’s flight hardware catalogue. Under his leadership, Dawn has built electronics systems from scratch and executed multiple international qualification campaigns, meeting the full suite of environmental tests for missions from low-Earth orbit to lunar and beyond. Earlier in his career, Thomas designed the MkII-A rocket engine controller, flown on Dawn’s early spaceplane flights.
With electronics flying on 167 thrusters across 38 satellites in space (and rising), his expertise spans aerospace electronics product design and delivery, providing unique insight into the opportunities and challenges of developing aerospace capability in New Zealand.
Dr Isaac Henderson, CEO, Drowneshows Limited
Isaac is the CEO of Droneshows Limited and Vice President of the Aviation Industry Association of New Zealand (AIANZ). He combines research, practical experience, and advocacy work regarding the operation and regulation of uncrewed aircraft systems. Isaac’s work spans projects in New Zealand and abroad, usually leading regulatory and operational aspects of larger projects. Isaac is passionate about growing the UAV sector in New Zealand and ensuring we have the right ecosystem as a country.
Prior to leading Droneshows Limited, Isaac lectured in human factors and aeronautics within Massey University's School of Aviation. While working in this role, he undertook research and consultancy projects related to UAVs. Isaac was the Chair of UAVNZ (the industry body for commercial UAV operators) between 2020 and 2025. During his tenure, he worked on many initiatives to advocate for and professionalise the UAV sector in New Zealand.
Robyn Henderson, General Manager of Economic Growth and Head of the New Zealand Space Agency, MBIE
Robyn Henderson is the General Manager of Economic Growth and Head of the New Zealand Space Agency for the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE).
She has over 20 years’ experience in a range of different policy and leadership areas within the New Zealand Government including regulatory impact analysis, standards and conformance, tourism policy, sector/industry policy, digital economy, science and innovation, and space. Before joining the Ministry of Economic Development in 2003, Robyn worked in private sector roles in London, Singapore and Melbourne. Robyn graduated from the University of Canterbury with a Master’s in Economics.
John Holt, CEO, Executive Director, Tāwhaki National Aerospace Centre
John is an experienced company director and entrepreneur. He is a Crown-appointed director of the Tāwhaki National Aerospace Centre and currently serves as its Executive Director.
He is a Director of Airways New Zealand, Chair of the Airways People and Culture subcommittee, and a member of the Airways Safety committee.
His purpose statement is to “actively engage the world, learn, grow and share with others.”
He is the co-founder of New Zealand technology start-ups Sonar6 (sold to a United States company Cornerstone in 2012) and Homes.co.nz (sold to New Zealand corporate Trade Me in 2021).
John is currently focused on applying his experience, connections, curiosity and applied skills specifically to the areas of strategy, sales, and cultural and digital transformation, to enhance the readiness of organisations for the future.
He has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Military History and a Postgraduate Diploma in Business Administration. He has had a lifelong interest in aviation and is a flying member of the Wellington and Canterbury Aero Clubs.
Prof Lucy Johnston, Tumu Tuarua Rangahau | Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research and Innovation at Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha | University of Canterbury (UC), New Zealand
Lucy Johnston is Tumu Tuarua Rangahau | Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research and Innovation at Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha | University of Canterbury (UC), New Zealand. She previously held executive roles across Australasia, including Interim Vice-Chancellor and Deputy Vice- Chancellor Research and Enterprise at the University of Canberra, and Pro Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation) at Murdoch University. A qualified sports psychologist, she holds a bachelor’s degree in experimental psychology from the University of Oxford and a PhD in social psychology from the University of Bristol. Her international experience includes a term as Distinguished Visiting Professor at the University of Connecticut. Professor Johnston has contributed to key initiatives such as the New Zealand Institute of Language, Brain and Behaviour and the Psychosocial Recovery Advisory Group after the 2011 Christchurch earthquakes. She also chaired the NZ Deans and Directors of Graduate Studies and was a member of the Australian Council of Graduate Research.
Sarah Kessans, Associate Professor, University of Canterbury, School of Product Design, Faculty of Engineering
Growing up in the fields and forests of southern Indiana in the USA, Sarah Kessans has always been curious about how the natural world works. Currently teaching students in the School of Product Design as a lecturer at the University of Canterbury (UC) in the Chemical Formulation Design programme, Sarah is also involved in a range of research projects, from synthetic biology to space technology development. Sarah is also a member of the Aerospace Christchurch committee, and is excited to see aerospace flourishing in Canterbury!
After studying plant biology at Purdue University, Sarah completed her PhD at Arizona State University, where she developed and tested a plant-based HIV vaccine candidate. Sarah then began a postdoctoral position at University of Canterbury, working to understand bacterial evolution. “I hadn’t initially intended on staying in New Zealand, but I fell in love with the natural beauty of the South Island and the incredible communities around Christchurch, and after a few years, I really didn’t want to leave.”
Sarah secured a second postdoctoral position at UC, and was a Finalist Interviewee in NASA’s Astronaut Candidate selection at this time, which opened her eyes to the opportunities in space research. “It became one of my missions to support and expand New Zealand’s fledgling space industry.” Some of the projects she is working on now are looking at the possibility of building habitats on Mars with the development of fungal materials, and understanding how biosynthetic pathways in microbes can be manipulated to produce food in space.
Jin Sub Kim, Director of the Defense and Space Industry Division, Daejeon Metropolitan City
Jin Sub Kim is the Director of the Defense and Space Industry Division at Daejeon Metropolitan City. In this role, he leads the city’s initiatives to strengthen its defense and aerospace capabilities, foster industry growth, and build international cooperation. His previous positions include serving as Tourism Policy Team Leader at Daejeon Metropolitan City, working in the Autonomous Driving Mobility Division at the Ministry of SMEs and Startups, leading the Science and Technology Team in the Economic Policy Division of Sejong Special Self-Governing City, and contributing to the Organization Planning Division at the Ministry of the Interior and Safety. Mr Kim began his career as a naval officer and retired with the rank of Captain from the Republic of Korea Navy. He holds a Master’s degree in International Tourism from Hanyang University and a Bachelor’s degree in Navigation Systems Engineering from Korea Maritime and Ocean University.
Dr. David Korsmeyer, Deputy Center Director, NASA’s Ames Research Center
David Korsmeyer is the Deputy Center Director of NASA’s Ames Research Center in Silicon Valley, California. In this role, he helps lead one of NASA’s premier research centers, overseeing cutting-edge programs in aeronautics, space exploration, advanced computing, and life sciences.
Previously, he served as the Center’s Associate Director for Research and Technology, where he coordinated Ames’ diverse portfolio of research activities and strengthened partnerships with industry, academia, and international collaborators.
David has held multiple leadership positions at NASA, including Director of the Engineering Directorate, where he managed more than 700 engineers and technical staff in support of spaceflight missions, technology development, and research programs. He has also led initiatives in autonomous systems, AI for spaceflight, and human-robotic collaboration.
He began his NASA career in the Intelligent Systems Division, where he contributed to mission-critical software and advanced robotics for planetary exploration.
David holds a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Colorado, Boulder, with a research focus on artificial intelligence and complex systems. He has authored numerous technical papers, served on national advisory committees, and continues to be an advocate for innovation and cross-disciplinary research at NASA..
Ryo Kotera, Manager / Business Development, Space Business Department, All Nippon Airways Trading Co. Ltd.
Ryo Kotera leads new business development in the space sector at ANA group. Kotera's mission is to strengthen Japan’s domestic satellite manufacturing supply chain by introducing advanced technologies, including Zenno’s superconductive magnetic technology systems and Dawn Aerospace’s spaceplane payload operations. Kotera's career began in the airline business, managing supply chains for aircraft components for ANA and other airlines across the Asia-Pacific region. He later joined ANA Holdings Inc. on secondment, playing a key role in forming a strategic partnership with Joby Aviation in the field of advanced air-mobility (air-taxi). Now focused on the space industry, Kotera is dedicated to introducing global space innovations to the Japanese market with the goal of helping to build a more resilient and competitive ecosystem for Japan’s space economy.
Michael López-Alegría, Chief Astronaut, Axiom Sapce
Michael López-Alegría was born in Madrid, Spain and immigrated to the U.S. as a young boy with his family. He has over 40 years of aviation and space experience with the U.S. Navy and NASA in a variety of roles, including Naval Aviator, engineering test pilot, NASA astronaut, and commander of the International Space Station (ISS).
López-Alegría is currently the chief astronaut for Axiom Space. He commanded the crew of Axiom Mission 1 (Ax-1), the first private
mission to the ISS in human history, and subsequently served as commander of Axiom Mission 3 (Ax-3). He is a six-time astronaut,
having flown on Ax-1 and Ax-3, space shuttle missions STS-73, STS-92, and STS-113, and Soyuz TMA-9 to and from the ISS, where he served as commander of Expedition 14. He holds NASA records for the most extravehicular activities (EVA) or space walks”(10) and cumulative EVA time (67 hours, 40 minutes). He was elected to the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame in 2020.
López-Alegría is the former president of the Commercial Spaceflight Federation, where he was a spokesman, thought leader and advocate with the U.S. Congress and pertinent executive agencies for favorable public policy on behalf of the commercial spaceflight industry. He has served on several advisory boards and committees of public and private organizations, including the Human Exploration and Operations Committee of the NASA Advisory Council and the Commercial Space Transportation Advisory Committee to the FAA.
López-Alegría is the former chairman of ASTM International Committee on Commercial Spaceflight and former president of the Association of Space Explorers USA, a professional and educational organization of current and former astronauts. .
Catherine MacGowan
Catherine MacGowan brings extensive experience across the aviation and public sectors, beginning her career with the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF). She gained early expertise in navigation, supporting No. 5 Squadron in maritime operations throughout the Asia-Pacific region and internationally. Her service included a deployment to Timor-Leste, followed by a strategic advisory role under the Chief of Defence Force.
Catherine later joined the Ministry for Primary Industries, where she led the National Intelligence Team. In this role, she worked closely with industry partners to manage food safety and biosecurity risks.
In 2017, Catherine returned to the NZDF to co-lead the modernisation of the Defence Intelligence Programme. Her tenure culminated in her appointment as Commanding Officer of No. 230 Squadron, based at RNZAF Base Whenuapai.
She then transitioned to the private sector as Vice President, Asia Pacific Region and Air Operations at Wisk Aero, a U.S.-headquartered autonomous aircraft manufacturer. As a member of Wisk’s Executive Leadership Team, Catherine was responsible for developing air operations capabilities aligned with regulatory standards and leading business development across the Asia-Pacific region.
Catherine holds a Master’s degree in International Security (with distinction) from Massey University. She is an alumna of the Global Women Breakthrough Leaders Programme and was dux of the NZDF’s Advanced Command & Staff Course (2013).
In June 2025, Catherine joined the Civil Aviation Authority as Deputy Chief Executive, Aviation Safety Oversight Group.
Dr Brent Martin, Principle Data Scientist, Manaaki Whenua - Landcare Research Group, Bioeconomy Science Institute
Dr Brent Martin is a Principal Data Scientist at Manaaki Whenua – Landcare Research. His 38-year career spans both academic research as a senior lecturer at Canterbury University, as well as software engineering and R&D roles in various commercial companies, from local software house Jade to Google NY. For the past 12 years Brent has focussed on tackling pressing environmental issues, including 7 years helping companies and individuals reduce their GHG emissions as the software architect at Toitū Envirocare, and five years at Manaaki Whenua – Landcare Research where he applies deep learning to environmental monitoring and develops data science tools.
Eamon McGrath, Program Manager for Emerging Technologies in the National Operations and Standards Division of Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) Australia.
A commercially astute, experienced executive with an extensive history working in a broad variety of industries and environments including start-ups, government agencies and multinational corporate, Eamon has furthered his aviation experience having worked on regulatory development and implementation for both traditional and emerging aviation. Of note, Eamon has recent involvement in the CASA Future Strategies Taskforce; RPAS and AAM Strategic Regulatory Roadmap; and the Emerging Aviation Technologies Partnerships Program run by the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications, Sport and the Arts.
A qualified Remote Pilot (RePL), Eamon has strong interest in the Emerging Aviation industry, in particular the development of regulations allowing complex (large) operations, artificial intelligence, alternative fuels and future infrastructure to support AAM.
Robin McNeill, CEO Space Operations New Zealand
Robin McNeill is CEO and founder of Invercargill based Space Operations New Zealand. He has built satellite ground stations from Antarctica to the Equator. Space Operations New Zealand operates the Awarua Satellite Ground Station, New Zealand’s only commercial ground station facility dedicated to low Earth orbit and, since last year, the Warkworth Space Centre.
Nujoud Merancy, Deputy Associate Administrator, Strategy and Architecture Office, NASA
Nujoud Merancy is the deputy associate administrator for the Strategy & Architecture Office (SAO) in the Exploration Systems Development Mission Directorate (ESDMD) for NASA Headquarters. Based at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston, Merancy serves as the agency expert in exploration architectures, guiding technical aspects of agency decisions about exploration element–level performance and functionality, which will have decades-long implications for agency goals and international and commercial partnerships. She oversees the annual Architecture Concept Review cycle, in which NASA refines the exploration architecture that guides its efforts to return astronauts to the Moon, establish an ongoing lunar presence, and land humans on Mars.
Prior to her current role, Merancy served as the architecture integration manager within SAO. Before joining ESDMD, she served as the chief of the Exploration Mission Planning Division within the Exploration Architecture, Integration, and Science Directorate; led the Mission Analysis and Integrated Assessments team; and held various roles supporting Orion Program mission planning and analysis, all at Johnson Space Center. She began her career working in industry supporting early International Space Station development and operations.
Merancy holds a Bachelor of Science in Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering from the University of Washington and a Master of Science in Systems Engineering from the University of Houston–Clear Lake. She is a recipient of a NASA Exceptional Public Service Medal, Rotary National Award for Space Achievement Stellar Team Award, and the Silver Snoopy, an award that NASA astronauts bestow for outstanding contributions to flight safety, for designing the space station’s loss of attitude control warning.
Hayley Miller, Specialist Technology and Commercial Lawyer
Hayley is a specialist technology and commercial lawyer, with particular expertise in privacy and data protection. She has developed a multi-disciplinary practice which is often at the intersection of technology, privacy and consumer law, specialising in IT, telecommunications, privacy, intellectual property, outsourcing and commercial supply and procurement. Hayley has acted for many well-known companies procuring new technology to underlie their business operations and the related outsourcing of services. Hayley is listed as a leading individual in international legal directories for TMT by The Legal500 and Chambers Asia Pacific.
Eric Morel de Westgaver, Director of European, Legal and International Matters, The European Space Agency
Eric Morel de Westgaver graduated in Economics from the Catholic University of Louvain, Belgium. He joined ESA in 1987 as Industrial Policy Officer in the Directorate of Administration. In 2001, he became Head of the Industrial Policy and Cost Analysis Department in the Directorate of Industrial Matters and Technology Programmes.
Mr Morel de Westgaver had been Director of Procurement, Financial Operations and Legal Affairs since April 2011 and before that, Head of the Procurement Department since October 2004 in the Directorate of Resources Management and Industrial Matters. In addition to this responsibility he was nominated Associate Director for Industrial Matters by the Director General in February 2010. In November 2013, he became Director of Industry, Procurement and Legal Services (D/IPL).
On 20 May 2021, a reorganisation was announced, with the setting up of the new Directorate of European, Legal and International Matters, for which Mr Morel de Westgaver was assigned as Director. Following an internal reorganisation of the Agency’s Corporate function and services, the Directorate was renamed Directorate of Strategy, Legal and External Matters on 1 April 2024.
Dr Minh Nguyen, Acting Deputy Associate Administrator for the FAA’s Office of Commercial Space Transportation (AST)
Dr. Minh Nguyen currently serves as an acting Deputy Associate Administrator for the FAA’s Office of Commercial Space Transportation (AST). In this capacity, he oversees two directorates. The Operational Safety directorate focuses on safety analysis, safety authorization, and safety assurance for commercial space launch and re-entry operations. The Strategic Management directorate focusses on commercial space policy, regulations, standards, research & development, budget & finance, human capital planning, learning & development, strategic planning, international engagement, and spaceports. He previously served as an Executive Director for AST’s Office of Strategic Management. AST’s mission is to enable safe space transportation.
Previously, he has served in various capacities including FAA’s Deputy Director of the FAA’s Office of Policy and Plans, where he oversaw the FAA’s planning and implementation of the FAA’s Reauthorization of 2018 and agency’s corporate goals and business plan development and implementation. As acting Deputy Regional Administrator for the Northwest Region, he was in charge of consolidating FAA offices in 4 buildings into the new regional office building, and oversaw aviation matters in 7 states. As a member of the Administrator’s Strategic Initiatives Group (SIG), he contributed to formulating strategic priorities for the FAA.
He served in various capacities in the Nextgen organization, including program manager for the Office of Advanced Technology Development, division manager for the Office of Business Case Integration and Modeling, and chief of staff for the Senior Vice President of NextGen and Operations Planning.
Prior to joining the FAA, he worked at the MITRE Corporation, Veracity Engineering, Argon ST, and Naval Research Laboratory, leading advanced research programs.
He obtained his undergraduate, graduate, and doctorate degrees in Electrical Engineering from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Virginia Tech).
Charlie North, Head of Global Supply Chain, Dawn Aerospace
Charlie North is Head of Global Supply Chain at Dawn Aerospace, where he focuses on building the supply chain systems that turn cutting-edge aerospace designs into manufacturable reality. With a background in mechanical engineering and advanced manufacturing, he brings a practical, industry-focused perspective on scaling innovation. Charlie also serves on the boards of Advancing Manufacturing Aotearoa (AMA) and NZMEA/MakeNZ, helping to strengthen New Zealand’s manufacturing ecosystem.
Julian Phillips, Head of Whenua Planning and Rejuvenation, Tāwhaki
Julian Phillips (Wairewa) is Head of Whenua Planning and Rejuvenation at Tāwhaki. He leads Tāwhaki in planning and rejuvenating whenua as part of its dual kaupapa: environmental restoration and aerospace development. With over a decade of experience in regional strategy and Tiriti-based partnerships, Julian brings deep expertise in navigating complex relationships across iwi, rūnanga, and government. His leadership ensures innovation at Tāwhaki is grounded in mātauranga Māori and delivers enduring outcomes for both people and planet. Julian is passionate about restoring whenua and empowering communities through co-designed, values-led approaches that honour whakapapa and unlock future potential.
James Powell, Co-Founder and Spaceplane Chief Engineer, Dawn Aerospace
James Powell is Spaceplane Chief Engineer and co-founder of Dawn Aerospace, and has spent over 15 years in aviation. In prior work James served as a New Zealand Civil Aviation Authority Design Engineering Delegate (similar to being an FAA DER), being one of the youngest ever to do so. He led Aurora, Dawn’s rocket-powered aircraft, to secure a supersonic, high-altitude licence and was Flight Director for Aurora’s debut supersonic flight in November 2024, which also set a world speed record to 20 km altitude. James also sits on the Industry Advisory Board for Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, as well as other mentoring roles at the University of Canterbury in New Zealand..
Stefan Powell, Co-founder, CEO, CTO, Dawn Aerospace
Stefan grew up with a love for building new things and creating stuff. His father was an engineer and his grandfather a carpenter, so easy access to a shed full of tools allowed for a childhood of making things.
An interest in sustainable technology, particularly wind energy led him to studying at engineering at Delft University in the Netherlands. Whilst at Delft, Stefan's desire to use his practical skills led him to teaming up with a group of students to form a club around building rockets. The founding members of this club ultimately formed the basis of the founding team at Dawn Aerospace.
Sarah Ramsay, CEO and Co-owner, United Machinists
Sarah Ramsay is the CEO and Co-owner of United Machinists, a Dunedin-based advanced manufacturer producing precision components for leading aerospace, defence, medical and scientific companies. Since 2019, she has led the company’s transformation from a local job shop to a global player—introducing fully automated machining, robotic inspection, additive manufacturing, and a state-of-the-art anodising line.
Under Sarah’s leadership, United has expanded into the Australian defence market and is now entering the USA aerospace sector. Known for her culture-first approach, she believes automation and real-time data empower teams to excel. Sarah also serves as Chair of the Minister for Manufacturing’s Productivity Advisory Group and Advancing Manufacturing Aotearoa, and is a Trustee of the NZ Hi-Tech Trust & Foundation.
Sakthi Ranganathan, Founder & CEO, JIX Reality Lab
Sakthi Ranganathan is a New Zealand–based tech entrepreneur, digital designer, and founder of JIX Reality Lab, which began as a regional winner of the inaugural Space Challenge and NASA Space Apps Contest. Through JIX, Sakthi led the development of a fan-made AR space learning app inspired by ISRO’s Chandrayaan mission, making space science accessible and engaging for learners. With over 12 years of experience spanning AI, XR, and human–computer interaction, Sakthi has collaborated with organizations across the Asia–Pacific region—startups, educators, healthcare, and government—to apply emerging technologies for real-world impact. Sakthi values collaboration, creativity, and the pursuit of new ideas to advance innovation in aerospace and education.
Laura Read, Geospatial Analyst, EnviroStrat
Laura Read is a geospatial analyst with a particular interest in applying Geospatial Information Science to address complex environmental challenges. After studying GIS and Environmental Science at the University of Auckland, she began building in-house geospatial capability for EnviroStrat. Laura develops low-cost Earth Observation and machine-learning workflows using UAV multispectral imagery, satellite-derived ocean model data, and Python. Recent work includes analytics for regenerative aquaculture ventures (kina, seaweed, scallops), East Asian blue economy development, and nature credit pilots in New Zealand.
Jude Rushmere, General Manager New Zealand, Nova Systems
Jude is the New Zealand General Manager for Nova Systems, a global engineering services and technology solutions company, partnering with clients to keep our nations and people safe and secure. An experienced and customer focused aerospace professional with over 25 years’ experience of leading operations in safety critical environments, Jude is passionate about supporting the growth of New Zealand’s aerospace sector.
Mark Rocket, CEO, Kea Aerospace
President, Aerospace New Zealand
Mark was the seed investor and co-Director of Rocket Lab from 2007 to 2011. Mark is the CEO of Kea Aerospace, a company that is building solar-powered aircraft that will continuously fly for months in the stratosphere to capture more frequent high-resolution data for applications such as environmental monitoring, maritime domain awareness, disaster response and commercial insights. He is the President of Aerospace New Zealand, which is an industry-led body working to grow the aerospace sector.
Dr Florian Sellmaier, Project Manager Moon Mission Control Center
Dr. rer. nat. (Ph.D. in science), Astrophysics, 1996
Since 2006, Dr Sellmaier has worked at the German Aerospace Center (DLR), Oberpfaffenhofen, where he serves as Project Manager for the Moon Mission Control Center and Head of Business Development for Space Operations, leading pre-development, strategy, and international proposal activities. Prior to joining DLR, he was Senior Management Consultant at Siemens Business Services GmbH & Co. OHG in Munich, where he headed the Competence Center for e-Business Applications. His earlier career included leading software development for marine radar and navigation systems at CAN Ltd., and conducting astrophysics research at the Institute for Astronomy and Astrophysics in Munich, where he earned his doctorate in natural sciences. He also gained international research experience at the California Institute of Technology (Caltech), focusing on spectroscopy at the Hale Observatory.
Dr Andrew Shelley, Managing Director of Fenix UAS Ltd and Chief Executive of Fenix Flight Training Ltd’s drone training school.
Dr Andrew Shelley is Managing Director of Fenix UAS Ltd and Chief Executive of Fenix Flight Training Ltd’s drone training school. He delivers specialised training for civilian and defence clients, advises operators on Part 102 certification, and contributes to academic and policy debates.
Andrew creates analytical frameworks that provide the theoretical basis for new operational procedures. His research centres on practical, risk-based regulation for UAV operations, and his work is widely cited in international studies of ground risk. He has further expertise in privacy and national security risks, including the implications of drones for surveillance, data protection, and counter-drone responses.
With more than 23 years as a Regulatory Economist, Andrew has examined complex policy and economic issues across multiple infrastructure industries. In aviation, he combines regulatory insight with hands-on training and certification experience. He holds a PhD in the law and economics of drones, alongside Masters degrees in economics and international security.
Rolf Skatteboe, CEO, President, Kongsberg Satellite Services AS
Rolf Skateboe is president and CEO of KSAT - Kongsberg Satellite Services AS.
Rolf was one of the founders of KSAT and has been CEO since it was established in 2002. Prior to joining kSAT he worked at the Norwegian Space Agency for 10 years. He was responsible for the development of the Svalbard Ground Station.
Rolf is MSc, Medical Physics and Biomedical engineering, Norwegian Institute of Technology and MSc, GeoPhysics, University of Saskatchewan, Canada. He has management courses at Norwegian University of Business and Economics. He also holds various board.
Kate Smith, Senior Advisor in the Strategy, Policy and International Engagement team at the Civil Aviation Authority of New Zealand
Kate is a Senior Advisor in the Strategy, Policy and International Engagement team at the Civil Aviation Authority of New Zealand. She is currently leading the regulatory development of New Zealand Civil Aviation Rule Part 107 – Research and Development Organisations Certification, which seeks to bring in a regulatory framework that allows for highly iterative R+D activity in the advanced aviation sector. She is also involved in the CAA’s international engagement, seeking to establish new collaboration mechanisms for States in the Asia-Pacific region.
Kate holds a Bachelor of Arts (First Class Honours) and a Master of Arts (Distinction) in Political Science from Victoria University of Wellington, as well as a Post Graduate Diploma of Emergency Management (Distinction) from Massey University. Her Master’s thesis focuses on political leadership in New Zealand, whilst her PGDip dissertation investigated the use of situational awareness in emergency responses in New Zealand.
Steve Smyth, Head of the Emerging Technologies Programme, CAA New Zealand
Steve Smyth served in the Royal Air Force for 30 years, commanding a fighter squadron and subsequently a strategic air base. Steve then led the Royal New Zealand Air Force’s Introduction into Service programme to upgrade and replace every aircraft and supporting system in the operational fleet.
In 2014 Steve joined the CAA of New Zealand as Director of the New Southern Sky programme, a decade long modernisation of the New Zealand aviation system. In August 2021, Steve took up the role of Director Emerging Technologies Programme. The programme acts as a bridge between the CAA and Industry and spans all emerging aviation technologies that are yet to be certified, including RPAS and AAM.
In April 2025, following restructuring, this role was re-labelled as Head of the Emerging Technologies Programme.
Dr. Malcolm Snowdon, Founder, Snowdon Consulting
Malcolm is a pioneer in New Zealand's aerospace sector. He completed his PhD at the University of Canterbury, designing world leading control algorithms and New Zealand's first guided rockets. Malcolm was an early employee of Rocket Lab and developed the navigation system for the Electron launch vehicle. From 2019, Malcolm has been involved in several deep-tech startups in New Zealand, including Zenno Astronautics as CTO building cutting edge superconducting technologies for the space industry. With Snowdon Consulting Ltd founded in 2023, Malcolm has been supporting local and international clients in the space industry, as well as manufacturing and exporting a series of liquid propellant rockets for bespoke missions.
Scott Spooner, Chief Executive & Technology Officer at SPS Automation Limited
Scott Spooner is the Chief Executive & Technology Officer at SPS Automation Limited. He is a highly skilled mechatronic engineer specialising in remotely piloted aircraft. He has over thirty years aeromodelling experience, including ten years of professional RPAS design, build and flight experience.
SPS Automation Ltd is a Christchurch-based R&D company specialising in tailored airborne and ground-based automated robotic systems. The core technology is bespoke sensor-based AI and the design or integration of the robots that use it. SPS Automation Ltd has an in-house rapid prototyping fabrication lab and a team of brilliant engineers who thrive in the strong team environment. If it flies, rolls, or moves and needs to think, then we can build it.
Philipp Sueltrop, Chief Technology Officer, Kea Aerospace
Philipp is the Chief Technology Officer at Kea Aerospace, a Christchurch-based company developing the Kea Atmos, a solar-powered stratospheric aircraft designed for persistent earth observation with an initial focus on maritime surveillance. He has led projects spanning high-altitude balloons, sounding rockets, and advanced unmanned aircraft systems, driven by his passion for pushing aerospace frontiers. At Kea Aerospace, he is advancing sustainable flight technologies to provide high-value data for environmental, scientific, and commercial applications.
Phil Swinsburg, Director of Asia Pacific Business Development , Wisk
Phil Swinsburg is the Director of Asia Pacific Business Development at Wisk, where he leads the regional sales and strategy team and is responsible for building the ecosystems needed to support the operational deployment of autonomous advanced air mobility (AAM) in Australia and beyond.
A retired Australian Army Lieutenant Colonel, Phil brings over 30 years of experience in autonomous systems, including operational command of the Army’s first uncrewed aerial systems unit in Iraq and Afghanistan. He later led Google's drone delivery project (Wing) in Australia and the U.S., achieving global regulatory milestones and high-scale autonomous operations.
Phil holds an undergraduate degree in disaster management and two postgraduate degrees, one in strategy and a second in operational planning. He also serves as Director of Wisk Australia and the Director of Wisk NZ and Chair of the Advanced Air Mobility Working Group for AAUS.
Miho Tanaka Gumpp, Business Development Manager, Argus Manutech
Miho Tanaka Gumpp has built a 25-year multidisciplinary career spanning business development, creative industries, entrepreneurship, and data protection across New Zealand and Europe. From producing global brand campaigns for MINI, BMW, and Sony PlayStation, to founding tech startups in Berlin and Munich, she has consistently bridged innovation, technology, and market impact. She is now Head of Business Development at Argus ManuTech, an advanced manufacturing company specialising in high-compliance, high-complexity system builds for mission-critical sectors such as aerospace and MedTech.
Graeme Tilley, Senior Systems Engineer and Flight Test Systems Specialist at Nova Systems
Graeme Tilley is a Senior Systems Engineer and Flight Test Systems Specialist at Nova Systems. Graeme has been with Nova Systems since 2015 and has over 34 years of Defence aviation experience and 25 years in Test & Evaluation (T&E), systems engineering, and project management in UK, Australia and NZ. A former British and Australian Army officer and helicopter pilot, he has led critical capability development and assessment across aircraft and land systems. Graeme has contributed to major T&E efforts, including rotary-wing platforms, soldier systems, Counter IED and communications technologies. He has delivered T&E and capability documentation for high-profile projects such as the MRH-90, Land 2097, NZDF’s P-8A Poseidon, and HMNZS Canterbury. Graeme is a certified trainer (TAE40116) and leads Nova’s T&E and Systems Engineering courses in Australia and New Zealand. He is also qualified in the evaluation of synthetic training devices and instructs on Nova’s EoSTD courses.
Stan Topping, Tāwhaki Joint Venture
Stan oversees aerospace activity at the Tāwhaki National Aerospace Centre and works closely with industry, regulatory bodies and the wider aviation community to help advance the aerospace industry in Aotearoa. Stan has a background in aerospace engineering, starting his career with Airbus in the UK, before emigrating to Australia and working with Smiths Detection. Stan later moved to New Zealand where he headed up the engineering department at Martin Jetpack, before joining Wisk to lead engagement with the New Zealand Government on integrating uncrewed aircraft into the airspace system.
Prof Matt Wilson, Director of the Geospatial Research Institute | Toi Hangarau and a Professor in Spatial Information in the School of Earth and Environment | Te Kura Aronukurangi
Professor Matthew (Matt) Wilson is the Director of the Geospatial Research Institute | Toi Hangarau and a Professor in Spatial Information in the School of Earth and Environment | Te Kura Aronukurangi. His research is in the broad areas of hydrology and geographical information science, with a primary focus in the assessment of flood risk using computational modelling and geospatial analysis techniques, and the assessment of uncertainty. He is particularly interested in the use of remote sensing and machine learning methods within environmental analyses. Matt is part of the Rongowai team, developing algorithms for assessing surface water from remote sensing signals obtained from an Air New Zealand Q300 aircraft. He is leading the development of environmental “digital twins”, which automate complex analytical processes using disparate data, particularly those from remote sensing. Building on a successful prototype, current research is embedding nature-based scenarios for flood mitigation within automated modelling of flooding, enabling community-centered risk assessments. In related work, he is using virtual reality to communicate the implications of flooding for communities. Matt is the current vice-chair of the New Zealand chapter of the IEEE Geoscience and Remote Sensing Society (GRSS) and a technical program chair for the 2028 International Geoscience and Remote Sensing Symposium (IGARSS) to be held in Auckland.
Tuana Yazici, Founder, Chair & CEO, Tuana Group, AeroAI Voyages, AeroAI DesignLab & Nonprofit AeroAI Global Solutions
Tuana Yazici is the Founder, Chair, and CEO of the holding company Tuana Group, its two subsidiaries, AeroAI Voyages and AeroAI DesignLab, as well as the nonprofit AeroAI Global Solutions—an observer organization to the United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (UNCOPUOS). Together, these entities harness artificial intelligence and space technologies to improve global living conditions.
Yazici holds a law degree (Juris Doctor, J.D.), a Master’s in International Administration, and a B.A. in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics (PPE). Yazici is also a member of the International Institute of Space Law (IISL) and serves as Chair of the IISL Working Group on the Legal Aspects of AI in Space. A published author in space law and a frequent speaker at international forums, her work focuses on developing balanced, responsible frameworks for regulating space technologies and artificial intelligence.