“The future belongs to those who prepare for it today.”
– Malcolm X
Note: U.S. Space Command co-sponsorship of this event does not constitute federal endorsement of SIA or any other sponsors of this workshop.
Rob, a satellite an industry veteran who began his VSAT career in the early days of aero platforms, co-founded Lepton Global Solutions nearly eight years ago as he was looking for ways to provide flexible turnkey satellite services to government and military customers. During his time at Lepton, Rob gained significant expertise not only in managing a small business, but also, in the technical understanding of how to successfully manage global TDMA networks and support various types of terminals. He also developed relationships across the satellite industry ecosystem from capacity suppliers to teleport operators.
Since the acquisition of Lepton Global by Kymeta Corporation in August of 2020, Rob has transitioned to a new role as a Vice President of Business Development. With close SOCOM relationships and customer understanding, Rob’s primary focus is developing government and custom satellite solutions oriented toward mission critical customers. In August of 2023 Rob took over leading the US military and government sales team.
Before founding Lepton Global Solutions, Rob led the MTNGS sales team, where his knowledge of communications-on-the-move (COTM) technologies resulted in several big contract wins in airborne and maritime sectors.
Rob began his career in the satellite industry with Tachyon Networks, where he was responsible for all global government business and was an early adapter in Airborne (COTM) satellite communications. During his time at Tachyon, he gained expert knowledge on multiple platforms, including iDirect, ViaSat, and Comtech.
Richard (Ric) A. VanderMeulen is the Vice President of Space & Satellite Broadband, Viasat Inc., a global broadband service and technology company.
Since 2010, Mr. VanderMeulen has been involved in Viasat’s strategic efforts to serve government and commercial markets with best available broadband networks extending reach and accessibility of broadband internet service, globally. He is engaged in the company’s innovations in designing highest-capacity satellites, secure ground infrastructure, and terminal technologies to provide broadband to fixed and mobile customers.
Mr. VanderMeulen attended the University of Virginia and graduated in 1977 with a Bachelor of Science in Applied Mathematics and Computer Science.
Douglas Ward, the Senior US Government Sales Director at INTEGRASYS, is a highly accomplished retired military veteran with over 24 years of service. As an instructor and manager, he trained 500 personnel and achieved remarkable results. Later, as Troop Chief and Executive Manager, he ensured seamless communication during high-stress missions alongside Special Operations Forces. After retiring from the military, he became a sought-after expert in special communications, shaping strategic decisions for government agencies.
In the corporate world, Douglas excelled as the Business Development Manager for Navy Accounts in Satellite Communications at Tampa Microwave. He also hosts the podcast “The Truth with Danger Doug,” inspiring listeners to pursue their aspirations. With an academic background from the American Military University, Douglas Ward is a well-rounded and accomplished individual, dedicated to empowering others.
As President of SIA, Tom is the trade association’s lead advocate for regulatory and policy issues of critical importance to SIA’s membership, including spectrum and licensing issues, defense and public safety matters, and export control and international trade issues. He also manages the day-to-day operations of SIA, including member communications, staff leadership and organization of SIA sponsored events. Tom became the president of SIA in December of 2014.
Prior to joining SIA, Tom was with Shared Spectrum Company (SSC), a leading developer of spectrum intelligence technologies, where he served as CEO. For more than a decade, he served as the President of the Personal Communications Industry Association (PCIA). Previous to his position at SSC, he founded and ran several companies in the technology industry, including Columbia Spectrum Management, P-Com Network Services, CSM Wireless, and SquareLoop.
Tom holds a BS, summa cum laude, in Public Administration from the University of North Dakota. He is also a graduate of Georgetown University Law Center where he served as Editor of the Georgetown Law Journal.
Ed Slater is the Senior Vice President, Sales and Marketing at OneWeb Technologies, a leading provider of secure and innovative commercial satellite communications connectivity for applications and wireless technologies globally. In this role, he is responsible for leading the development and implementation of the sales distribution and marketing strategy.
Mr. Slater has more than 25 years of experience in satellite communications, both as an operator and in commercial delivery, previously holding senior positions in the USAF and the commercial sector. Most recently, Mr. Slater was Senior Director of Sales at OneWeb Technologies, after previously serving as the company’s Director, Partner Development.
Mr. Slater brings a wealth of prior experience in satellite communications, government business development, partnerships and operations to OneWeb Technologies. Prior to OneWeb Technologies, he was Director, Government Aviation at OneWeb and held multiple government business leadership positions at Satcom Direct Communications, the largest provider of Inmarsat L-band services to the Department of Defense (DoD).
He has experience leading teams responsible for customer support, activations, contract management and sales, servicing all branches of DoD as well as the State Department, FBI and other Federal Agencies.
Nicole Robinson, Chief Growth Officer, is a proven executive leader with experience building and deploying high growth organizations in the satellite communications network space with deep understanding of the multi-orbit, multi-frequency constellations launched and launching. Prior to joining Comtech, Ms. Robinson was the President of Ursa Space Systems, Inc. Prior to joining Ursa Space, Ms. Robinson held a variety of leadership roles, including nearly 14 years at SES S.A., most recently as Senior Vice President of Global Government.
In addition to serving on its board of directors, Ms. Robinson was also Managing Director and CEO of SES Techcom Services, Inc., a subsidiary of SES that develops and delivers innovative and tailored end-to-end satellite-enabled solutions and services to governmental, institutional and supranational partners and customers. Prior to joining SES, while at General Dynamics Corporation, Ms. Robinson served as the leader of the Strategic Communications function for the United States Joint Forces Command’s Standing Joint Force Headquarters (SJFHQ).
Ms. Robinson holds a Bachelor of Science from Radford University, for whom she also served as the 2022 Commencement Speaker, an M.B.A. from Liberty University and is a graduate of Harvard University’s Senior Executives in National and International Security.
David Robinson was commissioned an Army Signal Corps officer in 1992 and has served in Active, Guard, and Reserve components. David is a Master Space Operations Officer (Functional Area 40) and has held positions in the U.S. Intelligence Community, U.S. Special Operations Command (SOCOM), the Pentagon’s Military Deputy of the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU), Joint Integrated Space Team, and the U.S. Space Command Liaison to SOCOM. David has worked in the commercial space industry for 17 years, including DigitalGlobe/Maxar, Airbus Defense and Space, Orbital Insight, and Iridium. David holds an M.S. in Space Systems Operations Management and an MBA.
Thad Pinney is vice president of sales & solution engineering for Kratos. He manages the global teams of sales engineer and solution architects supporting the entire Kratos Space, Satellite, Cloud and Cybersecurity portfolio. For the past 15 years Thad has led large multi-disciplined software development teams for government and commercial programs. Thad brings a diverse background in software development, solution design, systems automation, product development, delivery and support. He has a BS from Toccoa Falls College.
Catharine Parnell is Skyloom’s Counsel. She is responsible for the company’s legal affairs and strategy, including the management of its contracts, intellectual property, and export control compliance.
Catharine joined Skyloom after serving two years in the National Courts Section of the Civil Division of the Department of Justice, where she represented the U.S. government in litigation for monetary settlements on a variety of claims. Prior to working in the DOJ, Catharine worked for the Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction as its Associate General Counsel.
From 2011-2019, Catharine served on active duty in the U.S. Army Judge Advocate General’s Corps, primarily as a trial and appellate level prosecutor.
Catharine is pursuing a Masters in Business Administration from the University of Virginia Darden School of Business. She graduated cum laude from Fordham University School of Law (J.D., 2010) and with Honors from Swarthmore College, majoring in political theory and history (B.A., 2006).
Ray Lindenmayer is the Sr. Business Development Director for Intelsat Government Solutions overseeing account growth for the U.S. Army, U.S. Air Force and U.S. Space Force.
Mr. Lindenmayer joined Intelsat Government Solutions in August 2021. Prior to joining Intelsat, Mr. Lindenmayer held executive positions with L3Harris and Harris Corp. Mr. Lindenmayer served in the United States Air Force for 28 years and retired as a Lieutenant Colonel.
Mr. Lindenmayer earned a Master of Business Administration from the University of Rochester, a Master of Science in Computer Science from American University.
Scott Jacobs is Vice President of U.S. Government Programs at Astranis Space Technologies Corp. His primary focus is leveraging Astranis MicroGEO small spacecraft and digital payload technologies for government customer missions. Prior to his current role, he was the National Security Sales Director at Blue Origin. Scott served 26 years in the Air Force in space and nuclear operations and strategic planning roles culminating as the Deputy Director of Mission Operations at the National Reconnaissance Office. He has aeronautical and explosives engineering degrees from New Mexico Tech, Cal Poly Pomona, and the Air Force Academy.
Chris Hetmanski currently serves as Senior Vice President of Strategic Product Development for Eutelsat America Corp., where his responsibilities include the development of innovative and secure, multi-orbit, satellite communication solutions designed for Government applications.
Prior to joining EAC, Chris served as CTO and VP & General Manager, Managed Networks Services at UltiSat, and played a key role in the technical development of COMSATCOM services for several companies, including Airbus and Vizada.
Chris has an undergraduate degree in Mathematics from Loyola University and an advanced degree in Software Engineering from the University of Maryland.
Dr. Rajeev Gopal, VP at Hughes, leads the company’s advanced engineering programs, developing innovative solutions for resilient and protected defense. His work spans LEO and GEO HTS technologies, leveraging AI, ML, cloud and cybersecurity innovations. In 25+ years at Hughes, Dr. Gopal has held a variety of roles in satellite network systems engineering and software development, focusing on software-defined networking, 5G and enterprise management architectures. He earned a Doctor of Philosophy Degree in Computer Science from Vanderbilt University and a Bachelor of Engineering Degree in Electrical Engineering from the Birla Institute of Technology & Science in India.
As Vice President of Strategy at Omnispace, George Giagtzoglou is responsible for developing corporate strategy, market and competitive intelligence, and supporting strategic partner development initiatives for the company that is redefining mobile communications.
George brings more than 35 years of diverse technical and business experience to Omnispace, leading initiatives that have shaped the commercial satellite industry, and represent more than $28Bn in corporate development deals. Prior to Omnispace, George was the President of Alazo Consulting. In this role he delivered expert satellite industry insights to support strategic investments and acquisitions.
Previously, George was the head of Corporate Development at ABS Global with responsibilities including corporate development, corporate & regional strategy, business planning, market intelligence, satellite business case development, and financing.
Prior to ABS he was with Intelsat for 11 years as the head of Corporate Strategy & Planning and also led Corporate Development, Global Marketing, Product Strategy & Development, and Business Development. Mr. Giagtzoglou was instrumental in various company sale processes in 2005 and 2008, and the acquisition of PanAmSat in 2006. He played a key role in developing and commercializing the company’s capabilities, primarily in the area of broadband services.
Prior to joining Intelsat in 2000, Mr. Giagtzoglou’s career in the space and telecommunications industry included engagement leadership positions in the telecommunications practice of A.T. Kearney Management Consultants, and senior engineering and business management positions at Telstra (Australia).
Mr. Giagtzoglou has a master’s degree in business administration from The Wharton School (University of Pennsylvania), in addition to a degree in Electrical & Electronic Engineering from the University of Adelaide in South Australia.
Dave Fields is the President and CEO of SES Space & Defense. Prior to joining SES Space & Defense, Dave served as the Senior Vice President and General Manager of DRS’ Global Enterprise Solutions (GES). Dave has over 30 years of experience in the satellite commuications (SATCOM) and information technology (IT) industry, serving in a variety of sales, marketing, strategy, technical and executive management roles with Contel, GTE/Verizon, Dyncorp International, SES Americom Government Sytems, and Verestar.
While at GES, Dave combined his technical backgroudn as an electrical engineer with his business acumen and operational know-how to transform the company into a trusted source for advancing industry innovation. Dave applied the depth of his expertise in market strategy, business development and capture management that enables GES to develop a robust pipeline for new business and company growth.
Rebecca M. Cowen-Hirsch is SVP for Government Strategy and Policy at Viasat. With over 30 years of experience in defense, aerospace and executive leadership, she served as the Program Executive Officer for SATCOM, Teleport and Services at DISA. She established the Defense Spectrum Office, serving as its first Director. She is a rated experimental flight test engineer, and became the first female civilian Mission Commander for the Advanced Range Instrumentation Aircraft (ARIA) mission. She was awarded the Exemplary Service Medal for her service to the DoD. She received her BS in Electrical Engineering from the University of Kentucky.
Mr. Daughtridge leads Kratos’ satellite ground segment technology research and development efforts. Prior to his current role, he held several senior management positions, including SVP & GM of the Integral Systems Products Group, SVP & GM of the Integral Systems Commercial Group. Before joining the Company, Mr. Daughtridge held various management and engineering positions with Orion Satellite Corporation, Intelsat, and Spacecom. Mr. Daughtridge is also Director and Chairman of the Board of Directors for the IEEE Digital Intermediate Frequency Interoperability (DIFI) Consortium. He holds a Bachelor of Science from Lafayette College.
Rich Berliner has had a 35 year career in wireless communications and has been involved in the Space industry for over three years. He is an experienced CEO and has worked for a number of public companies. Rich currently serves as CEO of Digital Locations, a satellite communications company. Digital Locations has partnered with Florida International University (FIU) to perform research on direct satellite to mobile technology. Rich has been a panelist and moderator at dozens of trade shows, conferences and events. He is a Vice President and a Fellow of the Radio Club of America (RCA).
Joe Anderson is the vice president of operations and business development for SpaceLogistics, a Northrop Grumman company.
In this role, Anderson is responsible for managing the technical,
operational, licensing and insurance aspects of SpaceLogistics’ satellite- servicing fleet, and business development for commercial and government satellite servicing customers.
Anderson has been with SpaceLogistics nearly ten years. Previous to his current position, he served as chief engineer and director of mission extension vehicle services.
Prior to joining SpaceLogistics, Anderson spent 20 years at Intelsat where he served in a variety of technical, managerial, strategy and business development roles.
Anderson possesses more than 30 years of satellite industry experience including control system design for launch vehicles, telecommunications satellites, the Space Station Freedom, and satellite operations from more than 25 launch missions.
Anderson holds a bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering from the University of Minnesota, a master’s in engineering from Stanford University, and an MBA from George Washington University.
Peter B. Davidson has served as the VP of Global Government Relations and Policy at Intelsat since August of 2020. Prior to that he served as Deputy Dean for Strategic Initiatives at the Antonin Scalia Law School at George Mason University, General Counsel of the U.S. Department of Commerce, SVP of Government Affairs at Verizon Communications, General Counsel of the U.S. Trade Representative, VP Government Affairs at USWEST and Qwest, General Counsel and Policy Director for the Majority Leader of the U.S House of Representatives, and Attorney-Advisor in the Office of Legal Counsel at the Department of Justice. He is a native Minnesotan, and graduate of Carleton College and the University of Virginia School of Law.
Gregory G. Richardson is a senior project leader in the Human Exploration and Spaceflight Division at The Aerospace Corporation. He has experience in space systems design, systems engineering, and mission execution for innovative space systems. He is currently leading several Aerospace efforts in evolvable structure and ecosystems in space (ESES); in-space servicing, assembly, and manufacturing (ISAM); space access, mobility, and logistics (SAML); and rendezvous and proximity operations (RPO). He provides support to multiple government customers on in-space servicing, RPO, cluster flight, spacecraft autonomy, and design ofadvanced mission concepts. As a senior project leader, Richardson also leads the COnsortiumfor Space Mobility and ISAM Capabilities (COSMIC) as the executive director of theconsortium and primary interface to NASA.
From 2013 to 2020, Richardson provided onsite customer support for advanced concepts fornational security space. He led Aerospace and government efforts to define and mature anovel architecture for resilience, and led Aerospace efforts to define, acquire, and develop afirst-of-a- kind demonstration mission.
Richardson has also provided satellite systems engineering and integration support for DARPA’sSystem F6 program, at various times serving as the subject matter lead for cluster flightoperations, chief engineer, on-orbit testbed lead, and mission operations lead. He alsoprovided cradle-to-grave systems engineering, mission assurance, and missions operationssupport to Orbital Express, a DARPA mission that demonstrated autonomous rendezvous andon-orbit satellite servicing.
Additionally, Richardson has performed or supported past Aerospace studies of both thetechnologies and business case for on-orbit servicing, including co-leading the MissionCapability team for the Hubble Robotic Servicing Analysis of Alternatives in 2004, co-leadingthe Hubble Deorbit Study in 2012, and leading Aerospace support to the joint DARPA/NASAManned Geostationary Servicing Study from 2010 to 2012.
Prior to joining Aerospace, Richardson was a flight control engineer for Boeing Phantom Works.
Richardson has authored numerous works in the fields of small satellite trends, on-orbit servicing, value-centric analysis, and small satellite cost modeling.
Mr. Avellan is AST’s Chairman, founder and Chief Executive Officer since its inception in 2017. Prior to founding AST, Mr. Avellan served as the founder and Chief Executive Officer of Emerging Markets Communications (EMC), a satellite-based communications services provider to maritime and other mobility markets, from 2000 until its sale for $550 million in July 2016. Mr. Avellan has over 25 years of success in the space industry and is an inventor on 24 U.S. patents. He was the recipient of the Satellite Transaction of the Year award by Euroconsult in 2015 and was named Satellite Teleport Executive of the Year in 2017. A proud United States citizen, Mr. Avellan resides in Florida with his family.
Requirements Manager responsible for requirements validation & resourcing of the Navy Multiband Terminal Program, Commercial Broadband SATCOM Program, Navy GBS, Navy SATCOM Gateways, and several other smaller programs.
He has a Master’s Degree in Telecommunications from SMU and has spent the last 25 years engineering and integrating Navy & Joint SATCOM system capabilities at DoD SATCOM Gateways. Paul served active duty for 7 years at Lago Patria & Bahrain SATCOM Gateways before contracting for the Navy and Army as a SATCOM & IP Network engineer for another 10 years.
His previous position was serving as the NIWC Atlantic SATCOM Integrated Product Team (IPT) Technical Lead for several years leading the design, engineering, testing, & integration of several current Navy and Joint SATCOM and IP Network systems such as Navy Comtech 5650B Gateway Integration, DISA Enterprise SATCOM Gateway Modem (ESGM), MDA BMDS Teleport Gateway (BTG), Navy NTWAN Serial Transport, among others.
Mike Dean serves as DoD CIO’s Satellite Communications Chief. In this role, Mike is responsible for leading the Department’s enterprise SATCOM digital modernization and architectural design, which is focused on developing and implementing Enterprise SATCOM Management and Control, modernizing the ground infrastructure and user terminal segment, and improving and expanding commercial and international partnerships aimed at increasing both enterprise SATCOM capability and resiliency.
Prior to this role, Mike has served in various C4, Cyber, and Space leadership roles as a career former U.S. Army Signal Corps and Cyberspace Operations Officer, and is a Distinguished Member of the 82d Airborne Division’s 508th Parachute Infantry Regiment, recently deactivated in 2014.
COL Atkinson commissioned an Infantry Officer and began his active-duty career serving with the 10th Mountain Division. Upon completion of the Special Forces Qualification Course, he served as a Special Forces Officer with 5th Special Forces Group (Airborne), Special Operations Command – Central, and the U.S. Army John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center and School. After a decade serving as a Special Forces Officer, COL Atkinson transitioned to become a Space Operations Officer. Following the U.S. Army Space Operations Qualification Course, COL Atkinson served with the United States Space Command then attended the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. COL Pete Atkinson is currently serving as the Army Space Division Chief with the Headquarters, Department of the Army.
Maj Peacock is a CH-53E heavy lift helicopter pilot, having served with a multitude of Marine Heavy Helicopter squadrons based out San Diego, CA. Maj Peacock was selected to attend the Naval Postgraduate School to study Information Systems Technology. He currently serves as the Transmissions Section Head at Headquarters Marine Corps, Deputy Commandant for Information, Information, Command, Control, and Computers (IC4) Directorate. His portfolio include Spectrum Management, WB and NB SATCOM, Tactical Radios, 5G, and Position, Navigation, and Timing. Maj Peacock holds a Bachelor’s degree from Auburn University and a Master’s Degree and Graduate Certificate from the Naval Postgraduate School. He is a graduate of USMC Expeditionary Warfare School and the Naval War College Command and Staff Program.
Mr. Gregory serves as the Satellite Communications Branch Chief for the Cyber and Spectrum Operations Directorate at Head Quarters United States Space Force, a position he assumed in September of 2021. In his 23 years of satellite communications experience, Mr. Gregory has had the pleasure to be employed by the U.S. Navy, U.S. Army, and now the U.S. Space Force. During his active duty tenure in the Navy, he was stationed at Commander Cruiser-Destroyer Group Eight (1998 – 2004), Naval Computer and Telecommunications Area Master Station Atlantic (NCTAMS Lant) (2004-2007), and the USS Theodore Roosevelt (2007 – 2008). As a civilian with the Department of the Army, Mr. Gregory was attached to the United States Army Signal Activity Fort Belvoir (USASA Fort Belvoir)(2008 – 2021).
Craig Miller serves as President, Government Systems at Viasat, Inc. In this role, he is responsible for leading the Company’s global defense business, which exceeds $1 billion in annual revenues by delivering cost-effective, innovative solutions to challenging defense requirements in satellite networks, tactical data links, information assurance, and cyber security.
Craig joined Viasat in 1995, and has held numerous technology, business and strategic leadership roles. Prior to serving as President of Government Systems, he was the segment’s Chief Technology Officer where he was responsible for establishing and communicating the technical strategy and roadmaps for a diverse portfolio of defense products and services: including satellite communications, tactical networks, information assurance, cyber/network security and Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance.
Craig also launched the Viasat Government Systems Space Business, which created XVI, the first Link 16-enabled LEO satellite; Viasat’s mobile satellite communications gateway systems; and Viasat’s Hybrid Adaptive Network capabilities. In addition to his role within Viasat’s Government Systems business, Craig also worked with the design team of Viasat’s Space and Commercial Networks group, which developed the ViaSat-3 satellite constellation. In this role, he contributed to the design of Viasat’s next-generation satellite communications constellation and served as a liaison between Viasat’s commercial and government business segments.
Prior to Viasat, Craig worked at Hughes Missile Systems Group in Tucson, Arizona, where he was responsible for implementation of Electronic Counter Measures for the AAMRAM Missile System.
Craig holds a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering, with emphasis on Communications and Signal Processing from the University of Arizona.
Jason Perkins is the Satellite, Spectrum, & Terrestrial Communications Branch Chief, United States Special Operations Command (USSOCOM), MacDill Air Force Base, Florida. He is responsible to provide, manage, operate, and defend the SOF Information Environment’s (SIE) deployed satellite architecture.
Throughout his 25+ years supporting the SATCOM community, Mr. Perkins has served in several key roles within the DoD. His assignments have included:
U.S. Army Central Command, CCJ6 / Operations Division
LTC Monroe is a native of Columbus, Georgia. She attended Shaw High School and graduated from Columbus State University in 2004. Upon enlisting in the Army, she attended Basic Training at Fort Jackson, SC and was commissioned through the Army’s Officer Candidate School (OCS) at Fort Benning, GA in 2005.
Her civilian education includes a Bachelor of Business Administration in Computer Information Systems Management and a Master’s in Business Administration from Webster University. Her military education includes the Signal Officer Basic Course, the Signal Captains Career Course, the Recruiting Company Commander’s Course, the Rear Detachment Commander’s Course, the Army’s Command and General Staff College , and Joint Professional Military Education II (JPME II). LTC Monroe is certified in Security Plus and Network Management Plus. She holds Additional Skill Identifier’s (ASI’s) in Electronic Warfare and Signal Intel Tactics, Information Operations, and Knowledge Management.
Her previous assignments include Deputy XO to the Deputy Commander, CENTCOM HQs (2021-2022); C4 Operations Officer, CENTCOM J6 (2020-2021); Brigade S6 OIC, Joint Multinational Readiness Center (2018-2020); Deputy G6 for 7th Army Training Command (2017-2018); Battalion XO for Salt Lake City Recruiting Battalion (2016-2017); Company Commander for Sacramento Recruiting Battalion (2014-2016); Company Commander for III Corps (2013-2014); Battalion AS3 for III Corps (2012-2013); Company Executive Officer for III Corps (2011-2012); Battalion S6 for 3-43 Air Defense Artillery Battalion (2008-2011); Executive Officer for 286th Signal Company (2007-2008); Nodal Platoon Leader for 286th Signal Company (2006-2007).
LTC Monroe currently serves as the Deputy Division Chief for Operations, USCENTCOM J6. She is directly involved in enabling the Joint Force in conducting coalition operations alongside allied and partner forces in the twenty-one countries that comprise the Central Region.
Her awards and decorations include the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal – 2OLC, the Army Commendation Medal – 2OLCs, the Army Achievement Medal – 1OLC, and the Humanitarian Service Medal. She is also a recipient of the Army Signal Regiment’s Bronze Order of Mercury.
Chief Warrant Officer 4 Rivera enlisted in the Marine Corps in June, 1999 and is a native of New York City, New York. After graduating Boot Camp, Private First Class (PFC) Rivera reported to Marine Corps Communications & Electronic School, Twentynine Palms, California as a Field Radio Operator.
Upon completion of training PFC Rivera was assigned to 2nd Battalion 4th Marines, 5th Marine Regiment as a radio operator in 2000. During his tour he served as a Line Company Radio Operator, Radio Supervisor, and Battalion Radio Chief. He deployed to Okinawa, Japan with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) in 2000 and 2002, as part of the Unit Deployment Program. He later deployed to Ramadi, Iraq in 2003 in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Sergeant Rivera executed orders to Marine Helicopter Squadron One (HMX-1) in December of 2004. During his time at HMX-1, he served as a Communication Systems Operator and was certified as a Naval Air Crewman on board the VH-60N and VH-3D helicopters. During his assignment, he achieved the “Marine One” designator where he directly served on missions with the President of the United States and Vice President of the United States.
Staff Sergeant Rivera executed orders to 9th Communications Battalion (9thComm) in June of 2009. During his time at 9thComm, he served as the Radio Chief to the 15th MEU and the Electronic Key Management System Alternate Manager. He deployed in support of Western Pacific 2-10, and then returned to 9th Comm Battalion in September of 2011 where he served as the Battalion Training Chief.
Gunnery Sergeant Rivera executed orders to Expeditionary Warfare Training Group, Pacific in September 2012, where he served as an Expeditionary Communications instructor and Operations Chief.
He was selected to the Warrant Officer program in February, 2014. Warrant Officer Rivera completed The Basic School in May, 2014 and subsequently reported to Warrant Officer Communications Course. Warrant Officer Rivera completed the Tactical Communications Planning and Engineer Officer’s Course as the Honor graduate for 2014.
Upon completion of training, Warrant Officer Rivera was assigned to Company A, 9th Communication Battalion, I Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group. Chief Warrant Officer 2 Rivera served as Space and Waveform Integration Officer. He participated in exercises Balikatan 2015 in the Philippines, Dawn Blitz 2015, and MEFEX 2016 aboard Air Station Miramar. He executed orders to 3RD Marine Expeditionary Brigade in June of 2017.
Chief Warrant Officer 2 Rivera was assigned to 3RD Marine Expeditionary Brigade G6. He participated in exercises Kamandag 2017 in the Philippines, Yama Sakura 2017 in Japan and SSang Yong 2018 in the Republic of Korea. He executed orders to 1st Marine Division in April of 2018.
Chief Warrant Officer 3 Rivera reported to 1st Marine Division G6. He participated in exercises MEFX 19 and 20, Steel Knight 19, 20 and 21, Exercise Dawn Blitz 19, Freedom Banner 20 and the Marine Air Ground Task Force Warfighting Exercise 21 (MWX 3-21). Additionally, he supported four rotations of the South West Boarder mission and two Deploy for Training Alaska rotations. He executed orders to I Marine Expeditionary Force, G6 in May of 2021.
Chief Warrant Officer 4 Rivera is currently assigned to I Marine Expeditionary Force, G6.
He holds a Bachelors of Arts in Homeland Security from American Military University. He is also a graduate of the National Security Space Institute, Air Force Institute of Technology and the Joint Electronic Warfare Center, Strategic Command.
Chief Warrant Officer 4 Rivera’s awards include one Meritorious Service Medal, five Navy Commendation Medals, Combat Action Ribbon, and the 2016 A.B. Lasswell Award for in-service engineering from the National Defense Industrial Association.
Todd Dudley has worked for XTAR for almost 7 years since his retirement from the Department of Defense in 2014. He began his military career upon graduation from the US Naval Academy in 1993 with merit, and served 11 years in the US Navy as an Electronic Warfare Mission Commander on Navy EP-3 Aries-II ISR/reconnaissance aircraft, where he trained, learned, and used many of the electronic warfare systems and concepts also common to satellite communications. In 2003 he interservice transferred to the US Army to conduct Foreign Military Sales (FMS) of US defense articles and services to NATO Allies and countries across Europe and the Middle East, before retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel. Being fluent in DoD acquisition – and with experience two armed services – he continued his work in FMS as a DoD civilian after his military retirement and until joining XTAR in 2016.
Jason is the Director for Senior Leader Communications within Boeing Defense, Space & Security. He is responsible for customer engagement and directing Boeing efforts to create SATCOM business solutions that incorporate industry partners as well as multiple SATCOM business units within the Boeing enterprise. Jason leads customer engagement with a focus on requirement definition and the development of holistic SATCOM solutions to meet the USG’s needs and aligning industry partners and the Boeing enterprise to support our DoD customers.
Jason has more than 30 years of technical, supervisory and senior management experience in electronics, networking, weapons systems and satellite communications. Before joining Boeing, he served 24 years in the U.S. Navy. In his final assignment, he served as a Presidential Communications Officer at the White House Communications Agency and was selected as the White House Communications Deputy Commander for the 2013 Presidential Inauguration. In this role he provided senior level inter agency coordination, planning, and deconfliction while directing the efforts of the 300+ person communications team.
Prior to his assignment at the White House Communications Agency, Jason served as the Officer In Charge of Lago Patria Satellite Communications Facility Naples, Italy. He was responsible for all facets of operations, maintenance, and support for 1 of 8 DoD Standard Tactical Entry Points (STEP) / Teleport facilities. He led 42 civilian and 10 contractors responsible for ensuring satellite communications from the East coast of the United States through the Middle East. During his tenure, Lago Patria was recognized as the 2010 DISA Europe satellite facility of the year. He holds an undergraduate degree in Computer Information Systems Science.
Lt. Gen. DeAnna M. Burt is the Special Assistant to the Vice Chief of Space Operations, United States Space Force. As Special Assistant to the Vice Chief of Space Operations, Maj. Gen. Burt oversees strategic staff initiatives and assists the Vice Chief of Space Operations in organizing, training and equipping space forces in the United States and overseas, integrating space policy and guidance, and coordinating space-related activities for the U.S. Space Force and Department of the Air Force.
Maj. Gen. Burt entered the Air Force in 1991 as a distinguished graduate of the Air Force ROTC program at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. Her career has included numerous satellite operations and staff positions in Air Force Space Command and U.S. European Command. The general has commanded the 2nd Space Operations Squadron, the 460th Operations Group and the 50th Space Wing. She is a graduate and former instructor of the U.S. Air Force Weapons School and a graduate of the School of Advanced Air and Space Studies. Prior to her current assignment, Maj. Gen. Burt was the Commander, Combined Force Space Component Command, U.S. Space Command, and Vice Commander, Space Operations Command, U.S. Space Force, Vandenberg Space Force Base, California. As Commander of U.S. Space Command’s Combined Force Space Component Command, she led more than 17,000 joint and combined personnel with a mission to plan, integrate, conduct, and assess global space operations to deliver combat relevant space capabilities to combatant commanders, coalition partners, the joint force, and the nation.
EDUCATION
1991 Bachelor of Science, Aeronautical Engineering, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Fla.
1995 Master of Science, Human Resources Management, Troy State University, Troy, Ala.
1997 Squadron Officer School, Maxwell Air Force Base, Ala.
1999 Distinguished Graduate and Academic Award, USAF Weapons School, Nellis AFB, Nev.
2005 Distinguished Graduate and Commandant’s Leadership Award, Air Command and Staff College, Maxwell AFB, Ala.
2006 School of Advanced Air and Space Studies, Maxwell AFB, Ala.
2012 Distinguished Graduate, National War College, Fort Lesley J. McNair, Washington, D.C.
2015 Leadership Enhancement Program, Center for Creative Leadership, N.C.
2015 Air Force Enterprise Leadership, UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School, N.C.
2016 Enterprise Perspective Seminar, Alan Freed Associates, Washington, D.C.
2020 Advanced Senior Leader Development Seminar, Arlie Center, Warrenton, Va.
2021 Combined Force Air Component Command Course, Maxwell AFB, Ala.
ASSIGNMENTS
1. October 1992–January 1993, Student, Undergraduate Space Training, Lowry Air Force Base, Colo.
2. January 1993–December 1995, Crew Commander, Deputy Flight Commander, and Chief, Current Operations, 4th Space Warning Squadron, Holloman AFB, N.M.
3. December 1995–October 1997, Chief, Space Systems Tactical Warning Operations and Chief, Standardization and Training, 76th Space Operations Squadron, Schriever AFB, Colo.
4. October 1997–January 1999, Executive Officer, Space Warfare Center, Schriever AFB, Colo.
5. January 1999–June 1999, Student, USAF Weapons School Space Division, Nellis AFB, Nev.
6. June 1999–December 2001, Instructor, Assistant Training Flight Commander, and Training Flight Commander, USAF Weapons School Space Division, Nellis AFB, Nev.
7. December 2001–July 2004, Theater Missile Defense Operations Officer and Deputy Chief, Special Technical Operations Branch, Headquarters European Command, Patch Barracks, Stuttgart, Germany
8. July 2004–June 2005, Student, Intermediate Developmental Education, Air Command and Staff College, Maxwell AFB, Ala.
9. July 2005–June 2006, Student, School of Advanced Air and Space Studies, Maxwell AFB, Ala.
10. June 2006–July 2008, Chief Combat Plans Division, Joint Space Operations Center, Vandenberg AFB, Calif.
11. August 2008–August 2010, Commander, 2nd Space Operations Squadron, Schriever AFB, Colo.
12. August 2010–August 2011, Air Force Space Command Chief, Positioning, Navigation, and Timing Requirements Division, Peterson AFB, Colo.
13. August 2011–June 2012, Student, National War College, Fort Lesley J. McNair, Washington, D.C.
14. June 2012–August 2014, Commander, 460th Operations Group, Buckley AFB, Colo.
15. August 2014–May 2015, Director, Commander’s Action Group, Peterson AFB, Colo.
16. May 2015–July 2017, Commander, 50th Space Wing, Schriever AFB, Colo. and Commander, Air Expeditionary Wing, Red Flag 16-3, Nellis AFB, Nev.
17. July 2017–July 2018, Vice Commander, United States Air Force Warfare Center, Nellis AFB, Nev.
18. July 2018–Nov 2020, Director of Operations and Communications, Headquarters Space Operations Command, Peterson AFB, Colo.
19. November 2020–Aug 2022, Commander, Combined Force Space Component, U.S. Space Command, and Vice Commander, Space Operations Command, U.S. Space Force, Vandenberg Space Force Base, Calif.
20. Aug 2022 – Present, Special Assistant to the Vice Chief of Space Operations, U.S. Space Force, Pentagon, Arlington, Va.
SUMMARY OF JOINT ASSIGNMENTS
1. Dec 2001– Oct 2003, Theater Missile Defense Operations Officer and Deputy Chief, Special Technical Operations Branch, Headquarters European Command, as a major
MAJOR AWARDS AND DECORATIONS
Distinguished Service Medal (Air Force)
Legion of Merit with two oak leaf clusters
Defense Meritorious Service Medal
Meritorious Service Medal with two oak leaf clusters
Joint Service Commendation Medal with oak leaf cluster
Air Force Commendation Medal with oak leaf cluster
Joint Service Achievement Medal
Air Force Achievement Medal
Joint Meritorious Unit Award
Air Force Outstanding Unit Award with five oak leaf clusters
Air Force Organizational Excellence Award
National Defense Service Medal
Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal
Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
Armed Forces Service Medal
Remote Combat Effects Campaign Medal
Air and Space Campaign Medal
Air Force Longevity Service with silver and two oak leaf clusters
Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Ribbon (Pistol)
Air Force Training Ribbon NATO Medal
EFFECTIVE DATES OF PROMOTION
Second Lieutenant May 13, 1992
First Lieutenant May 13, 1994
Captain May 13, 1996
Major Nov. 1, 2002
Lieutenant Colonel Aug. 1, 2007
Colonel Sept. 1, 2011
Brigadier General Sept. 2, 2017
Major General Aug. 2, 2020
Dan Goldberg became President and Chief Executive Officer of Telesat in 2006. Prior to joining Telesat, Mr. Goldberg served as Chief Executive Officer of SES New Skies, a position he held following the purchase of New Skies by SES. During that time, Mr. Goldberg also served as a member of the SES Executive Committee. Prior to becoming Chief Executive Officer, he served as Chief Operating Officer of New Skies and prior to that as New Skies General Counsel.
Before joining New Skies, Mr. Goldberg served as Associate General Counsel and Vice President of Government and Regulatory Affairs at PanAmSat. He began his career as an associate at Covington & Burling and then Goldberg, Godles, Wiener & Wright, law firms in Washington D.C.
Mr. Goldberg obtained an undergraduate degree from the University of Virginia, graduating with the highest honors and earned a law degree from Harvard Law School, where he graduated cum laude.
Matt Desch is the Chief Executive Officer of Iridium Communications Inc., the only satellite communications company that offers truly global voice and data coverage. He has more than 40 years of experience in telecommunications management, and more than 30 years in the global wireless industry. Joining Iridium in 2006, Desch has been responsible for leading the innovation and growth of Iridium, which includes taking the company public on Nasdaq (IRDM) in 2009, completing the financing and development of Iridium® NEXT, the company’s $3 billion investment in upgrading the Iridium network with powerful new satellites, and launching Iridium Certus®, a multi-service broadband platform enabled by the upgraded constellation. With Mr. Desch at the helm, Iridium’s active subscriber base has grown from 150,000 in 2006, to nearly 1.8 million today, and dramatically expanded its operational earnings and free cash flow, while moving into important new services like global space-based aircraft tracking with its joint-venture, Aireon. Mr. Desch serves as a member of the U.S. President’s National Security Telecommunications Advisory Committee (NSTAC) and is a member on the Board of Trustees of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) and the Board of Directors of Unisys, global IT services firm. Mr. Desch holds a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from The Ohio State University and a Master of Business Administration from The University of Chicago.
Robert Lightfoot is the executive vice president of Lockheed Martin Space and an officer of Lockheed Martin Corporation. In this capacity, he is responsible for leading the Space business, which is more than $11 billion enterprise employing nearly 22,000 people and provides advanced technology systems for national security, civil and commercial customers. The Space portfolio includes integrated systems for satellites, human spaceflight, strategic and missile defense, satellite command and control, sensor and data processing including predicative analytics and big data applications, space observatories and interplanetary robotic spacecraft, and a range of sensing, communications, and exploration payloads.
Previously, Mr. Lightfoot served as vice president of Operations for Lockheed Martin Space responsible for production operations, including assembly, test and launch operations (ATLO), supply chain, quality, program management and all facilities, logistics, and security services. He also served as vice president of Strategy and Business Development within Lockheed Martin Space. In this capacity, he was responsible for growing the Space business with a comprehensive strategy to develop new markets and while maintaining the current portfolio. Lightfoot also led strategic planning, advanced technology concepts and new business acquisition efforts for each of the five lines of business. Prior to joining Lockheed Martin in 2019, he served as the president of LSINC Corporation.
He spent 29 years at NASA, where he served as associate administrator, the agency’s highest- ranking civil service position. He held other critical leadership roles to support space operations, exploration and science missions including director of the Marshall Space Flight Center
in Huntsville, Alabama, and director of Propulsion Test at Stennis Space Center in Mississippi. He also focused on strategies for key missions including the Space Shuttle’s return to flight following the Columbia tragedy, then initial transition and retirement efforts for shuttle infrastructure.
He was inducted into the State of Alabama Engineering Hall of Fame in 2010. He also received numerous awards during his NASA career, including the Presidential Rank Award for Distinguished Executives, the highest honor for federal government work, in 2006, 2010 and 2016.
Mr. Lightfoot received a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Alabama where he is a Distinguished Departmental Fellow for the Department of Mechanical Engineering, a College of Engineering fellow, and previously served on the Mechanical Engineering Advisory Board.
Don Claussen is the VP of Business Development for Intelsat General Communications focused on creating strategic partnerships and driving business with the U.S. government, civil and defense agencies and militaries worldwide. Mr. Claussen joined Intelsat General Communications to lead the business development team in May 2021. Prior to joining Intelsat General Communications, Mr. Claussen held executive level positions in broadband communications with L3Harris Technologies and L3 Technologies.
Ms. Grason is responsible for delivering COMSATCOM capabilities to support the joint warfighter, federal agencies, and international partners. Her portfolio includes the Enhanced Mobile Satellite Service (EMSS) Program Office, the EMSS Capabilities Office and the Department of Defense COMSATCOM Solutions Program Office.
EMSS is an $800 million global satellite program that provides the Department of Defense, federal and coalition partners with unlimited access to the commercial Iridium constellation, a mesh-network of 66 on-orbit cross-linked satellites,through a dedicated, EMSS controlled gateway.
The COMSATCOM Solutions Program Office acquires any commercial satellite capability for any customer, anywhere, and has over $5 billion under management.
Prior to this role, Ms. Grason was the SATCOM Division Chief, Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA). In this role she managed the Department of Defense Enterprise Gateways Program Office, the SATCOM Operations Integration Branch, and the COMSATCOM portfolio described above, prior to its Congressionally directed transfer to the United States Space Force. Other assignments include Program Manager, EMSS and Program Manager for a classified telecommunications system within DISA’s National Leadership Command Capabilities Center (NLCC). Ms. Grason began her career in government with DISA as a Contracting Officer, and served as the Chief, Special Projects Contracting Branch, which held a contracts portfolio valued over $2 billion.
Prior to joining the government, Ms. Grason was a retirement funds analyst for T. Rowe Price.
Ms. Grason received her Bachelor of Science Degree in Finance from West Virginia University and is a Certified PublicAccountant.
Ms. Grason is Defense Acquisition Workforce Improvement Act (DAWIA) Level 3 certified in Contracting from the Defense Acquisition University (DAU).
Colonel John “Judge” Smail is the Senior Cyber Officer, U.S. Space Force, the Pentagon, Washington D.C. In this role, he provides advice to the Chief of Space Operations on the U.S. Space Force’s cyber, spectrum and warfighting communications policy, strategy, and operations. Colonel Smail has had several assignments in space operations, intelligence, combat communications, and cyber operations and has deployed several times in support of Operations DESERT SHIELD/STORM, NORTHERN WATCH, ALLIED FORCE, IRAQI FREEDOM, and ENDURING FREEDOM.
James Jaschob is currently the Satellite Communications (SATCOM) Branch Chief in the Warfighter Communications Division of the Cyberspace Operations and Warfighter Communications Directorate at Headquarters, United States Air Force. His current responsibilities are to recommend formulation of policy, guidance, and resource advocacy for Air Force SATCOM to enable the warfighter to fly, fight, and win the conflicts faced by the United States.
His previous positions include:
Contractor support to the AF Mobile Satellite Services Office
Contractor support to the AF Consolidated MAJCOM Circuit Management Office
25 plus years in the United States Air Force.
He currently holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from Park University and a Diploma in Architectural Drafting from Detroit Lakes Minnesota Community and Technical College.
Theodore (Ted) Stephenson (J6) currently supports Chief for the Warfighter Communications Division within the J6 directorate on the Chairman of the Joints Chiefs of Staff at the Pentagon. Under his portfolio responsibilities are SATCOM Branch (COMSATCOM /MILSATCOM/Position Navigation and Timing); National Leadership C3 Branch (Senior leader communications/PNVC/PAGCN/DRSN); Air and Surface Branch (Data Link/AISR/Joint Aerial Layer Networks); Spectrum Branch, Communications Security Branch and 5G Cross Functional Team Requirements lead.
Prior to this Ted Stephenson was a contractor working for the Joint Staff. He has had an illustrious career in the U.S. Navy where he served over 27 years supporting Submarine, Battle Groups, and Amphibious Groups communications and network needs. His career has afforded him the opportunity to serve in multiple capacities and on a global scale. His advance electronics training and knowledge as a Fleet Technical Assistance Team member has proven indispensable in support of telecommunications, he has over 39 years of telecommunications experience.
Ted Stephenson Received his commission in November 1999 as a Limited Duty Officer (better known as a Mustang). In July 1983, he Married Tamera Stephenson, his High School sweetheart and have 2 daughters.
EDUCATION
2010 Bachelor of Science in Information Management and Technology, Minor in Information Assurance, University of Management & Technology, Arlington VA
ASSIGNMENTS
2017 – Present, Warfighter Communications Division Supervisor, Joint Staff J6, Washington D.C.
2011 – 2017, Action Officer (Contractor) Requirements & C4 Transport Divisions Joint Staff J8/J6, Washington D.C.
2008 – 2011, Broadcast Control Officer and Strategic and Tactical Communications Watch Supervisor, Submarine Force and Sub Allied Command Atlantic, Norfolk VA
2006 – 2008, Strategic Fixed Communications Manager, Naval Networks Warfare Command, Little Creek, VA
2003 – 2006, Senior Systems Control Officer and Battle/Amphibious Group Communication Planner, Naval Network Space Operation Command, Dahlgren VA
2000 – 2003, Communication Watch Officer, Submarine Pacific, Pearl Harbor HI
1996 – 2000, Force Communications Chief Fleet Technical Assistance Team member, Submarine Force Atlantic, Norfolk VA
1994 – 1996, Communication Chief, USS Tucson SSN770, Norfolk VA
1994 – 1994, Communications Lead Petty Officer, USS Boise SSN764, Deployed
1992 – 1994, Communications Lead Petty Officer, PCU Tucson SSN770, Newport New VA
1990 – 1992, Electronics Instructor Master Training and Curriculum Development Specialist, Naval Submarine School, Groton CT
1989 – 1990, Instructors and Senior Communications Student, Naval Submarine School, Groton CT
1986 – 1989, Communications Petty Officer, USS Mariano G. Vallejo SSBN658, Kings Bay GA
1984 – 1986, Submarine and Radioman Electronics School, Naval Submarine School, Groton CT
1984 – 1984, Radioman Communications School, Naval Training Center, San Diego CA
1983 – 1984, Enlisted Basic Training, Naval Training Center, San Diego CA
Over the past twenty-one years, Mr. Kirk has been involved in every aspect of US DOD satellite communications. He is currently the chief Satellite Communications and International Partners for USSPACECOM J36. He has served in Army, industry, and government civilian roles in satellite communications payload and transmissions operations, design, systems engineering, testing, requirements, analysis, and policy. He started in SATCOM in payload and transmissions management during Operations Iraqi and Enduring Freedom, later stood up the Wideband Global SATCOM constellation, multiple satellite control facilities, led the performance effectiveness analysis working group for the Department of Defense’s wideband communications services analysis of alternatives, and sponsored, led, or been a core member of many Capabilities Based Assessments, Joint Capabilities Technologies Demonstrations, operational assessments, program development and fielding, Operational Plan development, and operationalization of capabilities across the joint force.
Brig. Gen. Robert W. Claude is the Mobilization Assistant to the Director of Operations, Training and Force Development (J3/7), Headquarters United States Space Command, Schriever Space Force Base, Colorado. U.S. Space Command is one of 11 unified commands under the Department of Defense and is responsible fordeterring conflict, defending U.S. and allied freedom of action in the space area of operations, delivering combat-relevant space capability to the joint/combined force, and developing space forces to advance U.S. and alliedinterests in, through and from the space domain. As MA, Brig. Gen. Claude assists the J3/7 in executing full-spectrum space operations, maintaining credible space deterrence capabilities, providing analytical planningsupport, leading the combatant command’s participation in joint and combined exercises, and ensuring theeducation, training, and assessments of assigned and attached space forces.
Brig. Gen. Claude was commissioned in 1991 through the AFROTC program at the University of St. Thomas, St. Paul, Minnesota. He is a career space and cyber officer with more than 30 years of service.
Brig. Gen. Claude has commanded one squadron, served as wing vice commander, and has held numerous staff positions at the unit, major command, combatant command and service headquarters levels. Prior to his current position, Brig. Gen. Claude served as the MA to the Deputy Chief of Space Operations, Strategy, Plans, Programs, and Analysis, United States Space Force, the Pentagon, Arlington, Virginia.
EDUCATION
1991 Bachelor of Computer Science and Quantitative Methods, University of St. Thomas, St. Paul, Minn. 1996 Squadron Officer School, Maxwell Air Force Base, Ala.
1997 Master of Business Administration, University of Nebraska, Lincoln 2005 Air Command and Staff College,Maxwell AFB, Ala., by correspondence 2009 Air War College, Maxwell AFB, Ala., by correspondence
2016 Joint and Combined Warfighting School Joint Professional Military Education II, Joint Forces Staff College, Norfolk, Va., by hybrid
MAJOR AWARDS AND DECORATIONS
Legion of Merit with oak leaf cluster
Defense Meritorious Service Medal with oak leaf cluster Meritorious Service Medal with two oak leaf clusters
Air Force Commendation Medal with oak leaf cluster Air Force Achievement Medal
Armed Forces Reserve Medal with hourglass
EFFECTIVE DATES OF PROMOTION
Second Lieutenant Aug. 29, 1991
First Lieutenant Aug. 29, 1993
Captain Aug. 29, 1995
Major Oct. 1, 2002
Lieutenant Colonel Aug. 2, 2007
Colonel Oct. 13, 2012
Brigadier General Feb. 25, 2021
Colonel Steingold was commissioned as a Naval Officer in May 1992, following his graduation from the U.S. Naval Academy. In May 1994, he earned his Wings of Gold as a naval flight officer (NFO) after completing flight trainingin Pensacola, Fla., and San Antonio, Tx. Upon completion of P-3 fleet replacement squadron (FRS) syllabus, Jacksonville, Fla., Steingold reported to NAS Brunswick, Maine, joining VP-8 in November 1994. He completedtwo deployments to Sigonella, Italy, participating in Operations SHARP GUARD and DELIBERATE GUARD in support of NATO missions. In August 1998, Steingold reported to Virginia Tech Naval ROTC unit as assistant professor of naval science and taught two semesters before pursuing sea duty orders.
He reported aboard the USS Harry S. Truman (CVN-75) as a catapult & arresting gear officer in September 1999,and deployed to the Arabian Gulf in support of Operation SOUTHERN WATCH.
In October 2001, Steingold commenced a pre-department head tour with VP-30 and was designated an FRS NFO instructor and Orion Weapons & Tactics Instructor (WTI). He served as aircraft division officer and weapons & tactics unit fleet training division officer during his tenure in the PRO’S NEST.
Steingold reported once again to NAS Brunswick, Maine in November 2003, joining VP-26 as a department head where he served as Safety/NATOPS, administrative officer, training officer and operations officer. He deployed to Sigonella, Italy and Bahrain flying missions in support of Operations DELIBERATE FORGE/JOINT GUARDIAN,ACTIVE ENDEAVOR, ENDURING FREEDOM and IRAQI FREEDOM.
In March 2006, Steingold was assigned to the staff of the Office of the Assistant Secretary of the Navy, Financial Management and Comptroller as a budget analyst responsible for aviation procurement (fixed wing), other procurement (Navy), and research, development, test & evaluation. In August 2007, he transferred to the Joint Chiefs of Staff where he served as deputy of resources & acquisition management for the Force Structure, Resources, and Assessment Directorate (J-8).
In October 2009, Steingold assumed the duties as VXS- 1 executive officer at Patuxent River Naval Air Station, Md. He fleeted up as commanding officer in January 2011. Responsible for safe operations of four NP-3D Orions, two RC-12 Guardrails, four Scan Eagle UAS and the U.S. Navy’s only manned, lighter than air (LTA) airship, MZ-3A, Steingold steered the actions of 82 officers, Sailors and civilians in the execution of over 1,200 Class “A” mishapfree flight hours in support of ten Office of Naval Research and Naval Research Laboratory missions, including detachments to Iraq, West Africa, and the Pacific.
In May 2012, Steingold reported aboard USS Peleliu (LHA- 5) as executive officer in San Diego, conducting an 8-month deployment in support of ENDURING FREEDOM and Peleliu’s 7-month maintenance availability. Steingold departed Peleliu in March 2014 and assumed the duties as Commander, Naval Air Forces, Pacific, Deputy Assistant Chief of Staff for Requirements (N8A). While assigned to CNAP, Steingold was selected for majorcommand and reported as Commanding Officer, Naval Weapons Station Earle, New Jersey in September 2015.
In May 2017, Steingold transferred to Colorado Springs to become Chief of Staff, USSTRATCOM Joint FunctionalComponent Command for Integrated Missile Defense. In June 2019, he reported to 3rd Fleet as the Assistant Chief of Staff for Plans, Policy, Training, & Readiness, responsible for War Plans, Force Generation, Fleet Exercises, and Theater Security Cooperation. He also served as director for the world’s largest maritime exercise, RIMPAC. Steingold was selected for Inter-Service Transfer and commissioned as a Colonel in the U.S. Space Force on 1 March 2022. Assigned to Headquarters, U.S. Space Operations Command at Peterson Space Force Base in Colorado Springs, Colorado as the Chief, Satellite Communications Mission Area Team, he oversees all DoD Military SATCOM, as well as commercial SATCOM integration, requirements, and operational readiness.
Steingold’s awards include the Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Air Medal, and various other unit and personal awards. He and his wife, Patty, have been married for 30 years and are proud parents of four children and grandparents of two grandchildren.
LtCol Jeffrey Rohman, a native of Pensacola, Florida, graduated from Bryan College where he earned a Bachelorof Arts degree in History. He possesses a Master of Science degree in Information Technology Management and Cybersecurity from the Florida Institute of Technology. He was commissioned in March 2004.
He has attended The Basic School, Basic Communications Officer Course, Expeditionary Warfare School (non-resident) and the Command and General Staff Course. His service in the operating forces includes: Regiment A/Communications Officer and Platoon Leader with 11th Marine Regiment, Battalion Communications Officer and Platoon Leader with 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines where he deployed to Operation IRAQI FREEDOM and with15th Marine Expeditionary Unit in the Western Pacific and Middle East regions, A/Communications Officer with 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit where he deployed to the Western Pacific, Middle East, and Africa regions; Regiment Communications Officer with 7th Marines where he deployed with SPMAGTF-7 to the southwestborder, and Assistant Chief of Staff G-6 with 1st Marine Division.
His service outside the operating forces includes Faculty Advisor, Operations Officer and Multichannel Radio, Satellite Communications, and Technology Convergence Instructor at the Basic Communications Officer Course, student at the Command General Staff Course where he graduated with honors, and as a Faculty Advisor and the Profession of Arms and MAGTF Operations Afloat Instructor at the Expeditionary Warfare School.
LtCol Rohman’s personal decorations include the Meritorious Service Medal (with gold star), Joint Service Commendation Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (with two gold stars), Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (with gold star), and Combat Action Ribbon. He was the recipient of the 2013 Armed Forces Communications and Electronics Association Copernicus Award, the 2014 Alfred M. Gray Award, and the Marine Corps University 2018 Rose Award.
LtCol Rohman is married to Joy Rohman and they have two children.
Education: BA in Political Science with a minor in History, University of North Texas (94); MBA, University of Phoenix (08); Graduate of National Space Security Institute: Advanced SATCOM, Advanced PNT, and SPACE 200 and 300 courses.
Kimberly Morris is the Deputy for Space Operations at Naval Network Warfare Command. In this role, she has supervision of Navy SATCOM Operations. She supervises the resourcing and mission planning of the Navy’s Commercial Broadband Satellite Program. She is currently leading an initiative to demonstrate proactive hybrid-roaming capabilities on Navy surface ships using integrated Commercial Satellites with Military SATCOM capabilities.
Kimberly retired from the U.S. Marine Corps in 2014 after 20 years as a Communications Officer. During her career, she held several SATCOM centric billets including: Leading one of the first SATCOM Ground Mobile Force detachment from amphibious shipping, Communication Company Commander in support of logistics operations in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Squadron Executive Officer and Inspector/ Instructor of a Marine Wing Communications Squadron. Her last assignment was team lead for the Expeditionary SATCOM acquisitions program at MARCORSYSCOM.
After retirement, she served as a program analyst in support of OPNAV N2N6 responsible for the Navy’s Commercial SATCOM programs.
She is the recipient of the Navy Meritorious Civilian Service award, the Meritorious Service Medal with three stars, the Joint Commendation Medal, the Navy/ Marine Corps Commendation Medal, and the Navy/ Marine Corps Achievement Medal.
Andrew Dittmer is the Senior Director of Business Development at OneWeb Technologies, a leading provider of secure and innovative commercial satellite communications connectivity for applications and wireless technologies globally.
Previously, at multinational professional services firm Ernst & Young Global Limited, Mr. Dittmer was an advisor to financial services organizations on regulatory compliance, CISO organization and operational model alignment, and cybersecurity controls analysis.
Prior to that, Mr. Dittmer served in the U.S. Navy for 24 years in the communications field as an Information Warfare Officer. He has multiple overseas and combat deployments in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, providing defense communications and cybersecurity, with expertise installing, testing, and operating long-haul communications systems. His responsibilities included support of U.S. and allied military forces, security assistance, presence operations, along with humanitarian assistance and disaster recovery efforts around the globe.
Mr. Dittmer holds a Bachelor of Science from the United States Naval Academy, Master of Science from the Naval Postgraduate School, and Master of Arts from the Naval War College.
As Vice President, Government Solutions, David Radi is responsible for driving innovation on behalf of Omnispace’s government solutions business. He brings a wealth of defense and space industry expertise to the role having previously served as the Director of Integrated Information Systems within Boeing Defense, Space & Security. Previously, he was the CEO of the Boeing-Kestrel business unit, as prior to that, Vice President for Operations, Chief Operating Officer and President at Kestrel Enterprises. Before that, David held a 20-year career as a naval intelligence officer serving on aircraft carriers and fleet command ships, as well as the Naval Aide to the Commander- in-Chief of the Atlantic Fleet. Ashore assignments included duty on the National Security Council Staff in the White House Situation Room, command of the Chief of Naval Operations Intelligence Plot, and service as the Deputy Executive Assistant to the Vice Chief of Naval Operations.
He holds a bachelor’s degree from the U.S. Naval Academy, a master’s degree from Harvard University’s John F. Kennedy School of Government and was a Federal Executive Fellow at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).
Kirby Watson is the Director for Government Solutions at Iridium Communications Inc., the only satellite communications company that offers truly global voice and data coverage. He is responsible for business development and partner engagement for the Department of Defense business sector, with an emphasis on increasing applications and the use of Iridium products and services by the U.S. Federal Government. Mr. Watson holds a master’s degree in National Security and Strategic Studies from the U.S. Army Senior Service College, a Master of Arts degree in Organizational Management from the University of Phoenix and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Physics from Lycoming College.
Dan Gager is the Chief Commercial at Ovzon and has over 20 years of SATCOM experience. Before starting at Ovzon, Dan held commercial positions as the VP of Business Development at COMSAT, Executive VP at NAL Research, and Director of Government Business Development at Iridium. Dan’s government experience includes Satellite Program Manager at DISA where he served as the Chief of the DoD’s Enhanced Mobile Satellite Services Division, Program Manager of the U.S. Government’s $2B Future COMSATCOM Services Acquisition, Satellite Gateway Systems Expert GIG Operations, and as DISA’s liaison to the CJ6, Multi-National Forces, Baghdad Iraq.
With more than 20 years of experience in successful sales in the Telecom & Satellite Industry, particularly in DOD & DOE. Jeff is a proven leader who responds to challenges with confidence and determination. At INTEGRASYS, he develops the business and lead the Americas sales teams. Having previously worked in positions like Director Key Clientele or Regional Sales Director in US and Canada, for key players within the industry such as iDirect, Comtech, or Spacebridge.
Matt Langenbahn is the vice president of Kratos Space Product Development. Product Development builds Kratos’ next generation Satellite Ground Systems, focusing on Virtual Systems. Mr. Langenbahn joined Kratos in 2008 focusing on Satellite Telemetry, Tracking and Control Modems. Prior to becoming vice president of Product Development, Mr. Langenbahn spent 10 years supporting operational satellite ground systems at Kratos. Mr. Langenbahn has supported dozens of satellite programs including commercial, civil, DoD and classified systems. Mr. Langenbahn has a BSEE in Electrical Engineering from the University of Idaho and a MBA from the University of Colorado.
Paul de Naray is a Principal Engineer with The Aerospace Corporation. His space systems and cybersecurity experience has spanned defense contracting, private commercial, and FFRDC support to the government. His primary focus over the last decade has been system security engineering applied to space systems to counter modern cybersecurity threats. He has B.S. degrees in Physics, Astrophysics; M.S. degree in Systems Engineering; Certifications as CISSP, CCSP.
Margo Deckard is the Co-founder and COO of Lynk Global, Inc. Previously, Margo served as VP of Programs for NexGen Space. She was Project Manager for the Ultra-Low-Cost Access to Space Study for the USAF which focused on leveraging free enterprise to meet our National Security needs. She served as the Principal Investigator for NASA-funded research on the environmental impacts of space solar power (SSP), and co-authored a study for the National Security Space Office on SSP. Recently, Margo wrote a web data connector for NetHope to connect data from the United Nations Humanitarian Crisis Response Syrian Refugee Crisis REST APIs and populate Tableau. This product will guide over 43 NGOs in their efforts to meet the needs of the Syrian Refugees. She has a B.S. in Genetic Engineering from Purdue University and an M.S. in Systems Engineering from Wright State University.
Bryan “Stu” Eberhardt has been the Vice President, Boeing Satellites, Global Sales and Marketing since 2019. He received a Bachelor’s degree in Management from the United States Air Force Academy and spent 21 years working in the USAF before joining Boeing in 2015. In his current role, he leads the Global Sales & Marketing team for Boeing Government and Commercial Satellites – providing flexible communications solutions in all orbit domains.
As Vice President of Sales and Marketing, Mr. Assid sets strategy for all domestic and international sales, business development and marketing activities within the organization.
He is a 31-year military space veteran with extensive operational experience in Space Electronic Warfare, Offensive and Defensive Space Control, Satellite Communications, Space Situational Awareness, Command and Control, Test Evaluation and Adversary Space Operations.
Prior to joining the XTAR team, Mr. Assid served in numerous leadership roles at Headquarters, Air Force Space Command (AFSPC) and Headquarters, U.S. Space Force, where he was the operations lead for the transfer of DISA’s commercial SATCOM contracting function to AFSPC, the Air Force lead for the Fighting SATCOM Working Group, and Deputy Director for the Combined Force Space Component’s SATCOM Integrated Operations Division. He continues to serve as a Colonel in the U.S. Air Force Reserve.
Mr. Assid holds a Bachelor of Business Administration from the University of Texas at Arlington, and a Master of Information Systems Management from Lesley University.
Kevin Seybert has been working on the SpaceX Government Satellite Sales team since 2019, with an emphasis on rollout and deployment of Starlink commercial satellite communications capabilities to US DoD customers. Kevin has spent extensive time discussing the technological innovations that SpaceX has brought to the SATCOM industry with its proliferated low-earth orbit satellite constellation and the benefits of tying these new capabilities into the Government’s array of SATCOM capabilities. Kevin’s background is in mechanical engineering; prior to Government Sales, Kevin was the lead engineer for SpaceX’s Falcon 9 and Falcon Heavy propulsion systems integration team.
Steve Gizinski is President of Inmarsat Government, responsible for the technical and operational activities of the company. Mr. Gizinski has over 30 years of leadership and in-depth experience overseeing mission-critical technology efforts for commercial, Intelligence and U.S. DoD customers. He previously served as President and CEO of CVG, Inc.; in various management positions at Northrop Grumman, Hughes Space and Communications, Lockheed Martin; and as a fellow in the NRO technology fellowship program. Mr. Gizinski holds a MS in Systems Management from the University of Southern California and a BS in Electrical Engineering from the University of Central Florida.
Bruno Fromont is Intelsat’s Chief Technology Officer, leading spectrum strategy, asset planning, product development and innovation. As CTO, Mr. Fromont engages in technology initiatives across the company in support of our businesses and next generation infrastructure.
Mr. Fromont joined Intelsat in 2000 as Program Manager of Ground Systems Engineering. Since then he has held positions of increasing responsibility. Those positions include Vice President of Corporate Strategy, in which he was responsible for overseeing Intelsat’s strategy and innovation – most notably the business development of the Intelsat Epic program.
Gus Anderson served in the U.S. Army for 29 years as a Telecommunications Corps officer. During that period, he commanded numerous tactical and strategic communications organizations, to include the 509th Signal Battalion, Vicenza, Italy, and the Regional Signal Group SHAPE, NATO HQ (Belgium). During his military career he also served as an Associate Professor of Philosophy at the United States Military Academy, and as the military speechwriter for two Secretaries of Defense. He retired as a Colonel in 2008.
Currently, Gus Anderson is a senior director of business development at SES Government Solutions (GS). Prior to joining SES GS, Gus led business development for the Global Enterprise Solutions business unit of Leonardo DRS. His 10-year career at Leonardo DRS also included assignments as a program manager, overseeing satellite networks supporting NATO forces in the Balkans; Coalition forces in Iraq and Afghanistan; and networks supporting other U.S. Federal and International agencies. Gus’ efforts in business development, helped grow customer and market understanding of the DRS, and now the SES GS Information and Communications Technology Ecosystem – a global network that provides secure managed satellite and terrestrial services to major DoD, US Federal, and international agencies.
After serving as the President and CEO of SES Government Solutions for over 7 years, Brigadier General Peter F. Hoene, USAF (Retired) retired on September 30, 2022.
Before serving as the President and CEO, he served as the Corporate Vice President for Development for SES Government Solutions, where he worked with United States warfighters and other government users to help determine their requirements and provide communications capabilities, hosted payload opportunities, and network solutions.
In his last active duty position, General Hoene served as the Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA) Program Executive Officer for Command and Control, where he managed a portfolio of Joint and Coalition Command and Control and Information Sharing programs. Prior to his DISA assignment, he was Commander, 350th Electronic Systems Wing (C2&ISR Wing), Electronic Systems Center, Hanscom Air Force Base, Mass., where he managed a portfolio of 49 command and control (C2), ISR, Space and Cyber programs valued at more than $9 billion.
General Hoene retired from the U.S. Air Force in 2010 as Brigadier General, following 30 years of service. He is a graduate of the U.S. Air Force Academy, as well as a Distinguished Graduate of both the Air Command and Staff College and the National War College. He holds two Masters Degrees and served in a wide variety of Space, Command and Control, and research, development, acquisition, test, staff and command assignments.
Brian Pemberton leads the strategy and direction of the commercial, enterprise, government and IoT businesses for Omnispace as it redefines mobile connectivity for the 21st century. Brian is responsible for leading initiatives with customers and ecosystem partners on the development, validation and commercialization of applications across key industry verticals. Brian brings more than 20 years of experience in global wireless, terrestrial and satellite communications, including most recently serving as the company’s Vice President, Sales and Marketing.
Previously, as Vice President and General Manager, Aviation and Maritime at Iridium, Brian was responsible for ensuring the success of two key global growth initiatives for the company. He led the launch and go-to-market strategy for Iridium Certus, the company’s award-winning broadband initiative. He also led the development and launch of the Iridium GMDSS, offering enhanced safety and reliable coverage at sea. Prior to that, Brian held senior marketing and engineering roles at commercial and military aviation leader ARINC, which is now part of Collins Aerospace.
Brian holds a master’s degree in business from the Johns Hopkins Carey Business School and a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from Virginia Tech University.
Dawna Morningstar is the Director of Next Gen Solutions division within Lockheed Martin, Space – Mission Solutions. In this role, Dawna leads the next-generation of communications projects with a focus on 5G and Internet of Things from Space and in support of the Lockheed Martin-wide 5G.MILTM initiatives where Space is a key enabler of ubiquitous connectivity for 21st century security.
Dr. Rajeev Gopal, vice president, at Hughes Network Systems, LLC (HUGHES), leads the company’s advanced engineering programs, developing innovative solutions for resilient and protected communications in defense applications. Dr. Gopal’s work spans Low Earth Orbit (LEO) and Geostationary Orbit (GEO) High-Throughput Satellite (HTS) technologies, leveraging artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), cloud, and cybersecurity innovations.
In more than 25 years at Hughes, Dr. Gopal has held a variety of leadership roles in satellite network systems engineering and software development. Most recently, he has focused on AI/ML, software-defined networking, 5G, and enterprise management architectures. Prior to joining Hughes, Dr. Gopal led automation projects for clinical and cancer research and development at CTIS.
Dr. Gopal holds several patents and has published more than 40 technical papers. A member of the IEEE 5G World Forum, he serves on the editorial board of Wiley’s International Journal of Satellite Communications and Networking (IJSCN). Dr. Gopal earned a Doctor of Philosophy Degree in Computer Science from Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tennessee, and a Bachelor of Engineering Degree in Electrical Engineering from the Birla Institute of Technology & Science (BITS) in Pilani, India.
Daniel Gizinski was named President of Comtech Satellite Networks Technologies, Inc. (a U.S. Corporation) on January 3, 2022. Previously he held various senior management positions at Comtech, including Vice President of Product and Strategy for Comtech Systems Inc. Prior to joining Comtech in 2019, Daniel held program management and leadership roles at General Electric, Sierra Nevada Corporation, and L3Harris Technologies. Daniel holds a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Virginia and a Master’s degree from Duke University.
Tim Kopra is the President of OneWeb Technologies, which provides managed satellite communications and professional services with access to OneWeb’s global satellite network.
Previously, Tim was the Vice President for Robotics and Space Operations at MDA, a Canadian space company. Tim was also Partner and Co-founder of Blue Bear Capital, a venture capital firm investing in companies providing digital technology solutions for the energy supply chain.
Tim has served in various leadership and operational roles at NASA as an engineer and astronaut. While at NASA, Tim lived and worked on board the ISS during two spaceflights, completing three spacewalks and logging 244 days in space. In 2016, Tim was the ISS Commander for Expedition 47.
Tim served in the U.S. Army for 25 years as an Army aviator. He was deployed to Operations Desert Shield and Storm and then commanded an AH-64 Attack Helicopter Company.
Tim earned his Bachelor of Science from the United States Military Academy, a Master of Strategic Studies from the U.S. Army War College, a Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering from Georgia Tech, and MBAs from Columbia Business School and London Business School.
Richard Mortellaro is President and CEO of Eutelsat America Corp. (EAC).
Richard has enjoyed an extensive career spanning 30 years in the satellite industry, leading global sales, marketing and business development activities of companies; first as a Broadcast Sales Director at Intelsat, and subsequently within Loral Skynet Group which merged with Telesat in 2007 in the positions of Global Sales VP and latterly International Sales VP. Prior to joining Eutelsat, Richard was Senior Vice President of Sales, Marketing and Fixed Satellite Services Business Development Activities at EchoStar Satellite Services, LLC. He has an MA in Communications from the University of New Orleans and a BA in Communications from Loyola University (New Orleans).