The Techne Connect

In this episode of TECHNE Connect to Visionaries, we are joined by Laura, CEO and Co-Founder of Audicin, to explore the journey of building a health tech company focused on nervous system regulation. Laura shares her transition from Nokia executive to entrepreneur, how music and neuroscience inspired the creation of Audicin, and the challenges of turning a personal mission into a global technology company. We discuss the future of preventative healthcare, the role of science-backed technology, building high-performance teams, and why the next generation of health tech companies will need to combine innovation with genuine impact. A conversation about entrepreneurship, neuroscience, technology and creating solutions designed to improve everyday wellbeing. The Techne Connect Podcast 🎧 Thank you for listening to Techne Connect! This podcast takes you inside the companies and conversations shaping the future of engineering. From space and defence to robotics, AI, clean energy, advanced manufacturing and…

In the latest episode of TECHNE Connect to Venture Capital, Joe Reed is joined by Philip Veber, Principal at Gaingels, for a deep dive into the world of venture capital, investing and building relationships with founders. Philip shares his journey from joining Gaingels as a teenager to becoming a Principal, alongside insights from working with founders and investors across the technology ecosystem. They discuss: • What founders often misunderstand about venture capital • How to approach investors and build meaningful relationships • Why the right investor matters more than the highest valuation • The future of AI, robotics and space technology • Why physical AI could become the next major technology shift • The importance of storytelling, networks and founder mindset Philip also shares advice for early-stage founders, including why understanding the problem you are solving matters more than falling in love with the product. A great conversation for founders, investors and anyone interested in the future of…

Six years of development. Starting with zero customers. One clear mission to make space more sustainable. In our latest episode of TECHNE Connect to Visionaries, we're joined by Sara Correyero Plaza, Co-CEO and Co-Founder of IENAI Space, to explore the journey of developing next-generation propulsion technology for satellites. From an initial university research project to seeing their technology reach orbit, Sara shares the challenges, milestones and lessons behind building IENAI Space. In this episode, we discuss: How IENAI Space evolved from a research idea into a growing space technology company. Why propulsion technology is becoming increasingly important for sustainable satellite operations. The challenges of developing new technology and bringing it to market. The engineering expertise needed to support the next generation of space missions. As more satellites enter orbit, the need for better mobility, manoeuvrability and responsible end-of-life management continues to grow. A great conversation about…

In this episode of Connect Live, Tom Sloan sits down with Saleem Miyan, Co-founder & CEO of Max Space, inside the company’s facility in Florida to explore the technology and ambition behind the next generation of space habitats. Saleem shares his journey from semiconductors and satellite technology to entrepreneurship and ultimately founding Max Space, discussing the lessons he’s learned from building technology businesses and why solving the customer’s problem should always come before over-engineering a solution. The conversation explores Max Space’s expandable habitat technology, designed to provide significantly more usable volume while reducing mass compared with traditional space structures. Saleem explains how this approach could support a range of applications, from lunar bases and manufacturing facilities to deeper space exploration. Tom and Saleem also discuss startup culture, building mission-driven teams, the importance of collaboration across the space industry and the different skills needed to…

In this episode of TECHNE Connect to Visionaries, we are joined by James Murphy, CEO and Founder of Setanta Space, to discuss the future of onboard AI and satellite computing. James shares his journey from working on spacecraft systems and AI-enabled satellite projects to founding a company focused on bringing scalable computing platforms to space. They explore how reduced launch costs, growing satellite constellations and advances in hardware are creating new opportunities for autonomous space missions. The conversation covers the challenges of running AI onboard satellites, the engineering skills shaping the future of space technology, and why modular, scalable electronics will be critical as the industry continues to evolve. The Techne Connect Podcast 🎧 Thank you for listening to Techne Connect! This podcast takes you inside the companies and conversations shaping the future of engineering. From space and defence to robotics, AI, clean energy, advanced manufacturing and next-generation mobility, each…

The future of aviation is changing, and the next generation of aircraft is being built today. In the latest episode of TECHNE Connect to Flight, we sit down with Marina Hutter, Head of People at VÆRIDION, to discuss the journey of building a fully electric regional aircraft and scaling a deep tech company from the ground up. Marina shares: How VÆRIDION is developing a fully electric nine-seater passenger aircraft for regional aviation Why the transition from software-led health tech into deep tech hardware created a completely different experience What it takes to build teams and culture inside an ambitious aerospace startup Why electric aviation is moving from a question of “if” to “when” The challenges and opportunities of bringing a new aircraft through testing, industrialisation and certification Why joining an early-stage aerospace company offers a rare opportunity to help build an aircraft programme from day one A fascinating conversation about electric aviation, company building and the people behind…

What does it take to build and scale teams capable of solving the world’s hardest problems? In the latest episode of TECHNE Connect to Visionaries, we sit down with Matt Gjertsen, Founder of Built, to discuss his journey from US Air Force pilot to SpaceX training leader and now helping hard tech companies build the leadership capability needed to scale. Matt shares insights from his time at SpaceX, including the culture, mindset and operating principles that helped the company achieve some of its biggest milestones, from landing rockets to building a reusable launch system. We discuss: What it was like joining SpaceX during its early growth phase The importance of staying focused on the right problems, not just solutions Why many technical companies struggle when scaling from engineering-led teams into larger organisations The leadership gap that appears when great engineers become managers How founders can build teams capable of executing at scale Where Matt sees the space industry heading over the next 3–5…

In this episode of TECHNE Connect to Health Tech, we speak with Abhi, VP of Engineering at Bunker Hill Health. Abhi shares his journey from studying computer vision and robotics at Stanford to building AI-powered healthcare technology. With a background shaped by both engineering and healthcare, Abhi discusses how his experiences led him to Bunker Hill Health and the mission of helping healthcare organisations bring ideas from concept to clinical impact. Bunker Hill Health is building CareBricks, a platform designed to help health systems use their data, workflows and AI capabilities to turn ideas into practical solutions that improve patient care. In this episode, we explore: Abhi’s journey from computer vision research to healthcare technology Why healthcare needs to move beyond a scarcity mindset How AI is changing what is possible within healthcare delivery Why fundamentals and adaptability are critical skills for engineers The challenges of bringing healthcare ideas from research into real-world use How…

In this episode of TECHNE Connect To Visionaries, we speak with Sanjay Vijendran, Co-Founder & CTO of TerraSpark, about his journey from Mars exploration to building the future of space-based energy. Sanjay shares his career journey, from working on NASA’s Phoenix Mars Mission, helping develop technology that explored the Martian surface, to spending over a decade at the European Space Agency developing future Mars exploration concepts. After recognising the potential of space-based solar power, Sanjay moved from ESA into entrepreneurship and founded TerraSpark, a company focused on delivering clean and reliable energy from space to Earth. In this episode, we discuss: Sanjay’s journey from NASA Mars missions to founding a space energy company Why space-based solar power could become a future source of clean energy How advances in reusable rockets, satellite manufacturing and commercial space have changed what is possible TerraSpark’s approach to proving the technology at smaller scale before building larger…

In this episode of TECHNE Connect to HealthTech, we speak with Jeffrey Durmer Chief Medical Officer at Happy Health. Jeffrey discusses the importance of sleep health, the scale of sleep disorders, and why improving our understanding of sleep is critical for the future of healthcare. With a background in sleep medicine and neuroscience, Jeffrey shares his perspective on why sleep problems are so widespread and how technology is creating new opportunities to detect, understand and address these challenges. We explore: Why sleep disorders are more common than many people realise The impact sleep health has on overall human health and wellbeing Why sleep apnea remains an under-recognised healthcare challenge How technology is helping create better insights into sleep patterns The opportunity to make sleep health more accessible and personalised What the future of digital health could look like as we better understand the role of sleep A conversation about healthcare innovation, sleep science and building…

In this episode of Connect to Visionaries, Harrison is joined by Sophia Hummelman, Co-Founder and CCO of Remedium Energy, to explore her journey from investment banking into climate tech entrepreneurship. Sophia shares how an early interest in entrepreneurship led her to co-found a direct air capture company before turning her attention to the energy sector. Sophia discusses Remedium Energy’s approach to decarbonising heavy industry through a heat battery that can deliver high-temperature heat while also capturing CO₂. She explores the challenges of bringing deep-tech innovations to market, the importance of validating ideas with customers early, and why AI fluency, technical expertise and strong human skills will be critical to the future of climate tech. The Techne Connect Podcast 🎧 Thank you for listening to Techne Connect! This podcast takes you inside the companies and conversations shaping the future of engineering. From space and defence to robotics, AI, clean energy, advanced manufacturing and…

In this episode of Connective Visionaries, Tom is joined by Brett Velicovich, Co-Founder and President of Powerus, to explore his journey from the military into entrepreneurship and defence technology. Brett shares how his experiences working with drone technology and humanitarian efforts in Ukraine exposed significant gaps in the US defence industry and ultimately inspired him to build PowerUs. Brett discusses PowerUs’ mission to rebuild American drone manufacturing and develop low-cost, scalable drone systems for modern warfare. He explores the rapid evolution of drone technology, the growing role of AI and automation in defence, and why manufacturing, engineering and supply chain expertise will be critical to the industry’s future. Brett also shares insights into building a high-performance company culture, raising investment, scaling a defence technology business and the mindset required to succeed as an entrepreneur. The Techne Connect Podcast 🎧 Thank you for listening to Techne Connect! This podcast…

In this episode of TECHNE Connect, Joe Reed sits down with Mel Torrie, CEO and Founder of Autonomous Solutions Inc. (ASI), to discuss his journey through robotics, entrepreneurship and building autonomous systems for real-world industries. Mel shares how growing up on a farm in Canada inspired his interest in automation, eventually leading him from electrical engineering into robotics and founding ASI over 25 years ago. The conversation covers: The evolution of robotics from early concepts to today’s AI-driven systems Building a robotics company through the challenges of hardware, software and adoption Why trust, humility and culture are central to building successful teams The importance of hands-on engineering experience for the next generation How AI and labour shortages are accelerating robotics adoption The future of autonomous systems across agriculture, construction, mining and logistics Mel also shares lessons from his entrepreneurial journey, including why founders need resilience, how setbacks…

In this episode of Connect to Orbit: Visionaries, we speak with Mark Keremedjiev, CEO & Co-Founder of Orbital Sentry. Mark shares his journey from studying astrophysics at Cornell and building infrared cameras for black hole research, to working within the US intelligence community on advanced satellite programmes, before moving into the commercial space sector with Planet. Now, as the founder of Orbital Sentry, Mark is building a new approach to Earth observation, focused on delivering persistent, real-time data from geosynchronous orbit. We explore: Why current Earth observation systems struggle to provide timely data The challenges of monitoring rapidly changing events from space How Orbital Sentry plans to support defence, wildfire detection and commercial applications Why successful space companies need to solve customer problems, not only build impressive technology The lessons Mark has taken from government, startups and building a company from the ground up What the next 3–5 years could look like for…

The next generation of space infrastructure could be built much closer to Earth. In the latest episode of TECHNE Connect to Visionaries, we sit down with Steven P. Shepard, Co-Founder and CEO of Vaxon Space, to discuss the future of very low Earth orbit (VLEO) and why this emerging orbital regime could transform satellite technology. Steven shares his journey from working on advanced space programmes at Lockheed Martin to founding Vaxon Space and building satellites designed to operate in one of the most challenging environments in orbit. We discuss: - Why very low Earth orbit has remained largely unexplored - How Vaxon Space is overcoming the challenges of atmospheric drag and atomic oxygen - Why air-breathing propulsion could change the future of satellite operations -The applications VLEO could unlock across defence, imaging, AI and telecommunications - Steven’s journey from aerospace engineer to founder This is a conversation about pushing the boundaries of aerospace technology and building the next…

Gerry Vannuffelen left a global head of robotics role at one of the world's largest automation OEMs to found Mantis Robotics, betting that robots could work alongside people without cages, fences, or dedicated specialists to deploy them. In this episode, he unpacks the technology behind that bet: a "nervous system" for robotics that gives any robot the reflexes to operate safely in the real world, not just the lab.Gerry talks candidly about the jump from corporate comfort back into startup uncertainty, why most robotics ventures fail by chasing technology instead of a real problem, and why the humanoid hype cycle matters less than people think. It's a conversation about physical AI, safety certification, and what it actually takes to keep choosing entrepreneurship. The Techne Connect Podcast 🎧 Thank you for listening to Techne Connect! This podcast takes you inside the companies and conversations shaping the future of engineering. From space and defence to robotics, AI, clean energy, advanced manufacturing…

In this episode of Connect to Visionaries, we speak with Mitchell Fogelson, Co-Founder and CEO of Beyond Reach Labs, about the future of large-scale infrastructure in space. Mitchell shares his journey from mechanical engineering and robotics research through iRobot, robotics innovation in Japan, and a NASA-funded PhD at Carnegie Mellon University, which led to the creation of Beyond Reach Labs. The company is developing deployable solar arrays designed to scale from the size of a dining table to the size of a football field in orbit, helping power the growing space services industry. We explore: • Why scalable space infrastructure is becoming critical as commercial space expands • The engineering challenges behind building large deployable structures in orbit • How Beyond Reach Labs is moving from research concepts into real-world space applications • Mitchell’s experience building a deep-tech startup through Y Combinator • The lessons learned from entrepreneurship, failure and finding the right team • Why…

In this episode of TECHNE Connect to Flight, Tom Sloan sits down with Phillip Gomez, VP of Product and Defense Systems at MagLev Aero, to explore his journey through aerospace and defence. Phillip shares how early experience at startup AVX Aircraft, followed by seven years at Bell, shaped his technical expertise, leadership approach and understanding of the full aircraft development lifecycle. The conversation also explores the changing aerospace landscape, from the rise of new defence players and the challenges facing the eVTOL market to the role of hybrid propulsion and emerging technologies. Phillip discusses MagLev Aero’s mission to develop breakthrough propulsion systems using magnetic levitation and electromagnetic control, the company’s plans for the next 12–24 months, and the skills it is looking for as it scales. The Techne Connect Podcast 🎧 Thank you for listening to Techne Connect! This podcast takes you inside the companies and conversations shaping the future of engineering. From space and…

In this episode of TECHNE Connect, Joe Reed sits down with Leo Pauly, CEO & Co-Founder of Plasma Orbital, to discuss building the next generation of intelligent satellite systems. Leo shares his journey from electronics engineering and AI & robotics research into entrepreneurship, including the experiences that led him to create Plasma Orbital. Plasma Orbital is developing smart satellite networks with onboard AI capabilities designed to provide real-time satellite surveillance, beginning with maritime domain awareness. The conversation covers: Why current satellite imagery solutions struggle with real-time intelligence How AI-enabled satellites could transform maritime surveillance Building a new category within the space industry The challenges of founding a deep-tech company Lessons learned from previous startup attempts The future of the space economy and orbital infrastructure The skills engineers need to help shape the next era of space technology Leo also shares his perspective on why the future of…

In this episode of TECHNE Connect to Health Tech, we speak with Abhi, VP of Engineering at Bunker Hill Health. Abhi shares his journey from studying computer vision and robotics at Stanford to building AI-powered healthcare technology. With a background shaped by both engineering and healthcare, Abhi discusses how his experiences led him to Bunker Hill Health and the mission of helping healthcare organisations bring ideas from concept to clinical impact. Bunker Hill Health is building CareBricks, a platform designed to help health systems use their data, workflows and AI capabilities to turn ideas into practical solutions that improve patient care. In this episode, we explore: Abhi’s journey from computer vision research to healthcare technology Why healthcare needs to move beyond a scarcity mindset How AI is changing what is possible within healthcare delivery Why fundamentals and adaptability are critical skills for engineers The challenges of bringing healthcare ideas from research into real-world use How…

In this episode of TECHNE Connect to Visionaries, Joe Reed speaks with Brent Klavon, Chief Strategy Officer at ANRA Technologies, about the evolution of autonomous systems, the future of airspace and what it takes to scale drone and robotics technology safely. The Techne Connect Podcast 🎧 Thank you for listening to Techne Connect! This podcast takes you inside the companies and conversations shaping the future of engineering. From space and defence to robotics, AI, clean energy, advanced manufacturing and next-generation mobility, each episode features the founders, engineers and technology leaders building tomorrow's world. Through candid discussions on innovation, leadership, product development and career journeys, the podcast uncovers the ideas, challenges and breakthroughs driving the world's fastest-moving industries. Whether you're an engineer, founder, investor or simply fascinated by emerging technology. Techne Connect offers a front-row seat to the people creating what's next. Hosted on Acast. See…

Building the Infrastructure for the Next Era of Space with Symphony Space In this episode of Connect to Visionaries, Joe Reed speaks with Merry Walker, Co-Founder of Symphony Space. Merry discusses her journey from engineering and energy systems, through a career in diplomacy focused on emerging technologies, to founding a company focused on simplifying access to space. Symphony Space is building solutions designed to make space more accessible by reducing the complexity, cost and barriers involved in deploying technologies into orbit. The conversation explores how the space industry is evolving from exploration into a broader operating environment, with new opportunities across orbital infrastructure, in-space services, research, manufacturing and commercial applications. Merry shares the lessons behind taking a deep tech idea from concept to company, including understanding customer pain points, building around real market needs and creating scalable solutions for a growing space economy. They also discuss…

In this episode of Techne Connect: Connect To Orbit, Joe Reed sits down with Abdelfattah Mostafa, Head of Global Manufacturing Infrastructure at ICEYE, to discuss the evolution of the space industry, from bespoke satellite missions to scalable, industrialised manufacturing. Abdelfattah shares his career journey from mechanical engineering and oil & gas into commercial space, explaining why solving meaningful problems should always come before building impressive technology. The conversation explores Europe's growing space capabilities, the future of satellite manufacturing, AI-powered Earth observation, leadership, hiring high-performing teams, and the skills that will define the next generation of space professionals. Whether you're an engineer, graduate or industry leader, this episode offers practical insights into building a career and an industry that creates lasting impact. The Techne Connect Podcast 🎧 Thank you for listening to Techne Connect! This podcast takes you inside the companies and…

Mike Safyan, VP of Launch and Strategic Initiatives at Planet, joins Joe Reed to explore his journey from NASA Ames to becoming one of Planet’s earliest employees, and the decision to leave a secure career path to help build a company that would transform how we observe Earth. From Planet’s first satellites and its mission to image the entire planet every day, to its evolution into a publicly traded company, Mike reflects on the milestones, risks and decisions that shaped its journey. The conversation also looks ahead to the future of the space industry, from AI-powered geospatial analytics and the growing diversity of remote sensing technologies to the potential of orbital data centres. Mike shares his advice for early-career talent looking to enter the space sector, why smaller startups can accelerate professional growth, and Planet’s ambition to become a household name by demonstrating how space-based data can directly improve life on Earth. The Techne Connect Podcast 🎧 Thank you for listening to Techne…

In this episode of Connect to Orbit, Joe Reed speaks with Alicia Kavelaars, Senior Technology Officer at Spacedock. Alicia shares her journey from studying theoretical physics and astrophysics, to building space systems, founding OffWorld, and now helping shape the future of persistent space infrastructure. The conversation explores: • Why the future of space depends on rapid prototyping and solving real customer problems early • How robotics, AI and hardware will drive the next wave of aerospace innovation • The importance of systems thinking for engineers entering the industry • Why adjacent industries are becoming a key source of aerospace talent • The future of commercial space infrastructure and in-orbit servicing A great conversation for engineers, founders and leaders interested in robotics, AI and the next generation of space technology. The Techne Connect Podcast 🎧 Thank you for listening to Techne Connect! This podcast takes you inside the companies and conversations shaping the future of…

In this episode of Techne Connects, Joe Reed speaks with Tim Solms, CEO of Slingshot Aerospace. Tim shares his journey from joining the US Army at 17 to becoming an Apache pilot, working across Dell, VMware and Microsoft, and later stepping into the space sector as a CEO. The conversation covers leadership, risk, culture, hiring and career development. Tim explains why culture matters more than compensation, what he looks for in strong employees and why self-awareness plays such an important role in professional growth. They also explore the future of the space industry, including AI, autonomous operations, orbital infrastructure, commercial growth and the increasing demand for talent from outside the traditional aerospace sector. This episode offers practical insight for engineers, founders and business leaders interested in leadership, technology and the future of space. The Techne Connect Podcast 🎧 Thank you for listening to Techne Connect! This podcast takes you inside the companies and conversations…

In this episode of Behind the Vision, Luke Campbell speaks with Albert Maas, CEO of Avular, about his journey from mechanical engineering and motorsport into entrepreneurship and robotics. Albert shares how his early passion for building and solving complex problems led him towards creating deep-tech companies focused on mobile robotic systems. The conversation explores: • The challenges of building hardware companies in Europe • Why robotics requires a different approach to scaling compared with software • The importance of vertical integration in creating reliable products • How AI and autonomy will influence the next generation of robotic systems • The future of mobile robotics across industries including construction, logistics, healthcare and everyday life Albert also discusses Europe’s position in the global technology race, the importance of access to capital, and why the next generation of engineers will play a key role in shaping the future. From entrepreneurship and engineering education to the…

Building a career in aerospace and complex hardware does not always mean staying on a traditional engineering path. In this episode of Behind the Vision, Lucy Hoag, founder and CEO of Violet Labs, shares how her experience across aerospace, government programmes and autonomous vehicles led her to build a company focused on improving hardware development. Lucy offers a clear view of what it takes to turn industry frustration into a business. From customer discovery and product-market fit to AI, orbital data centres and connected engineering systems, she explains why experience, technical foundations and strong judgement matter. Whether you are an engineer, founder or business leader, this episode offers practical insight into building better products, stronger teams and more effective engineering processes. The Techne Connect Podcast 🎧 Thank you for listening to Techne Connect! This podcast takes you inside the companies and conversations shaping the future of engineering. From space and defence to robotics,…

Scott Philips, Chief Innovation Officer at Forterra, joins Carlos Regini-Moran to explore a career shaped by engineering, AI and a drive to solve real-world problems. From developing early AI systems for the US Navy and working on radar technology at MIT Lincoln Laboratory, to deploying technology alongside soldiers in Afghanistan, Scott shares how getting closer to the end user transformed his approach to innovation. The conversation explores the growing role of autonomy in defence, Forterra's mission to take soldiers out of harm's way, and the importance of building technology that works where it matters most — on the battlefield. Scott also shares lessons on leadership, mentoring and career development, including why the goal should be to "optimise for learning" and why being surrounded by people smarter than you can be one of the most valuable choices you make. The Techne Connect Podcast 🎧 Thank you for listening to Techne Connect! This podcast takes you inside the companies and conversations shaping the…

From contributing to the Orion program to helping build Europe's next generation of space capsules at The Exploration Company, Jon Reinveld has spent his career turning ambitious ideas into engineering reality. In this episode of Connect To Orbit, he shares the journey from choosing aerospace over biology to leading the development of technology designed to shape the future of human spaceflight. Jon explores why mastering technical expertise is only part of becoming a great engineer. He discusses the importance of curiosity, hands-on experience, leadership, and cross-disciplinary collaboration, while offering valuable advice for graduates looking to build meaningful careers in the space industry. The conversation also examines Europe's rapidly evolving commercial space ecosystem, reusable launch technology, and how iterative engineering is creating new opportunities for innovation. Whether you're an engineer, industry leader or simply fascinated by the future of space, this episode offers practical insights…

In this episode of Connect to Visionaries, Guilhem de Marliave, CEO and Co-Founder of Elistair, shares the journey behind building a European drone technology company focused on protecting those who protect us. From identifying the limitations of battery-powered drones to developing tethered systems capable of persistent aerial intelligence, Guilhem explains how Elistair found its market by listening closely to the needs of end users. Guilhem also explores the rapid evolution of defence technology, the impact of the war in Ukraine on drone innovation, the growing role of AI and autonomous systems, and why Europe must strengthen its domestic defence supply chains. He shares lessons from a decade of entrepreneurship, the importance of challenging ideas against reality, finding the right co-founder and building a team with a hands-on mindset. The Techne Connect Podcast 🎧 Thank you for listening to Techne Connect! This podcast takes you inside the companies and conversations shaping the future of engineering.…

Marco Agnan, Co-Founder and CTO of Odysseus Space, joins Joe Reed to discuss the future of laser communication and high-speed satellite data delivery. Marco explains how Odysseus Space is developing Cyclops, an end-to-end space-to-ground laser communication service. The model gives satellite operators access to optical communication terminals and ground infrastructure through a subscription, reducing upfront costs and technical barriers. The conversation covers the growing data demands of Earth observation satellites, the limits of traditional radio-frequency systems and the role of laser links in agriculture, wildfire detection, urban planning, maritime monitoring and defence. Marco also shares his journey from astrophysics and a NASA solar wind mission to building a space company in Taiwan and Luxembourg. He discusses European funding, prototype development, hiring, company culture, artificial intelligence and the skills future engineers need. The episode also explores Odysseus Space’s next milestones,…

In this episode of Connect to Orbit, Joe Reed speaks with Robert Sproles, CEO of Exolaunch, about the future of launch services and the infrastructure needed to support a rapidly growing space economy. Robert shares his journey into the industry and explains how Exolaunch supports satellite missions from the manufacturing floor through to orbit. He also discusses rising launch demand, the need for greater flexibility across launch providers, and why access to space is becoming a critical part of global infrastructure. The conversation also explores Exolaunch’s growth, its global operations, and the skills and mindsets that will be important for the next generation entering the space industry. The Techne Connect Podcast 🎧 Thank you for listening to Techne Connect! This podcast takes you inside the companies and conversations shaping the future of engineering. From space and defence to robotics, AI, clean energy, advanced manufacturing and next-generation mobility, each episode features the founders, engineers…

In this episode of Connect to Tech, Luke Campbell speaks with Per Björklund, co-founder of Further Than Capital, about what investors look for in early-stage technology companies. Per shares his journey from engineering and entrepreneurship into venture capital and angel investing. He explains why the founding team matters more than the original idea, the importance of customer validation and domain knowledge, and the common mistakes founders make when approaching investors. They also discuss the future of AI, deep tech, healthcare and hardware, as well as the skills young professionals should develop to build long-term careers in technology. The Techne Connect Podcast 🎧 Thank you for listening to Techne Connect! This podcast takes you inside the companies and conversations shaping the future of engineering. From space and defence to robotics, AI, clean energy, advanced manufacturing and next-generation mobility, each episode features the founders, engineers and technology leaders building tomorrow's world.…

What does it take to go from engineer to co-founder in one of defence technology's fastest-moving sectors? In this episode of Connect To Visionaries, Suresh Kumar, Co-Founder & CTO of Vermeer, shares how curiosity, calculated risk and a willingness to embrace failure shaped his entrepreneurial journey. From aerospace engineering and autonomous drones to leading cutting-edge autonomy programmes, Suresh explains why ownership, adaptability and continuous learning matter more than waiting for the perfect solution. The conversation explores how software, AI, computer vision and autonomous systems are reshaping modern defence, why startups are driving innovation faster than traditional approaches, and what tomorrow's engineers need to succeed. Suresh also discusses building high-performing engineering teams, fostering a culture where experimentation is encouraged, and why the future belongs to those willing to iterate quickly and solve complex real-world problems. The Techne Connect Podcast 🎧 Thank you for…

In this episode of Connect to Orbit, Robert Lamontagne, Vice President of Strategic Partnerships at Katalyst Space Technologies, reflects on his 25-year Air Force career, from flying B-52s and working with the B-2 to shaping future force design at the Pentagon. He shares how curiosity, adaptability and embracing unconventional opportunities shaped his journey from military service into the space industry. Rob also explores why Katalyst Space Technologies is working to transform the space economy from a "throwaway economy" into a dynamic ecosystem built around mobility, logistics, assembly and life extension. He discusses the future of space operations, the skills startups need, building high-performing teams and why the next generation should focus on finding careers that fit who they are. The Techne Connect Podcast 🎧 Thank you for listening to Techne Connect! This podcast takes you inside the companies and conversations shaping the future of engineering. From space and defence to robotics, AI, clean energy,…

In this episode of Connect to Robotics, Raumi Sidki, Director of Robotic Systems at Robust AI, shares his journey from watching the 2004 DARPA Grand Challenge as a child, where his father competed, to developing cutting-edge robotics at Apple, Amazon, and now Robust AI. He discusses what it feels like to come full circle by competing in the same challenges that first inspired him, why safety and human-first design are central to Robust AI's philosophy, and the engineering talent they're looking to hire, from motion control specialists to fleet simulation experts. The Techne Connect Podcast 🎧 Thank you for listening to Techne Connect! This podcast takes you inside the companies and conversations shaping the future of engineering. From space and defence to robotics, AI, clean energy, advanced manufacturing and next-generation mobility, each episode features the founders, engineers and technology leaders building tomorrow's world. Through candid discussions on innovation, leadership, product development and…

Building a career in robotics does not always mean following a fixed path. In this episode of Behind the Robot, Carlos Fernandez, Chief Solutions Officer at AutoStore, shares how he progressed from an engineering role in a small 20-person company to executive leadership in a global robotics business. Carlos explains how AutoStore scaled from an early-stage company into a publicly listed organisation, and what he learned across technical, commercial, product and leadership roles. He also discusses hardware development, customer-led innovation, physical AI, warehouse automation and the skills needed for the future of robotics. Whether you are an engineer, graduate or business leader, this episode offers practical insight into building a long-term career and developing technology that solves real operational problems. The Techne Connect Podcast 🎧 Thank you for listening to Techne Connect! This podcast takes you inside the companies and conversations shaping the future of engineering. From space and defence to…

In this episode of Connect to Venture Capital, Joe Reed speaks with Justyna Redelkiewicz, Venture Partner at Depot Ventures, about Europe's evolving space investment ecosystem. Drawing on 16 years of experience shaping programmes including Galileo, Copernicus and the €1 billion Cassini initiative, Justyna explains how public funding helped transform venture capital's appetite for space startups and why collaboration between governments, investors and founders remains essential to the industry's growth. The conversation also explores what investors look for in early-stage space companies, why founders should start selling long before their technology is finished, and the opportunities emerging in AI, Earth observation, in-orbit servicing and dual-use technologies. Justyna shares practical fundraising advice, common mistakes technical founders make, and the commercial mindset needed to build scalable businesses in the European space sector The Techne Connect Podcast 🎧 Thank you for listening to Techne Connect!…

Marek Plavcan, Chief Business Officer and co-founder of Airvolute, shares his journey from studying international business and working in government to helping build a technology company at the forefront of unmanned systems. He explores the unexpected evolution of Airvolute, from developing autonomous warehouse inventory drones to creating an autopilot platform now used by more than 100 customers across 30 countries. Marek also discusses why open architecture and modularity could shape the future of unmanned systems, the importance of building a strong engineering community, and the lessons he's learned about perseverance, founder alignment and delegation. He shares his perspective on the skills needed to build meaningful technology companies and why creating solutions that have a real-world impact is at the heart of Airvolute's mission. The Techne Connect Podcast 🎧 Thank you for listening to Techne Connect! This podcast takes you inside the companies and conversations shaping the future of engineering. From…

Paul Ziade shares his remarkable journey from tenured professor of mechanical engineering to CEO of one of Canada's fastest-growing defence technology companies. He explains why he left the security of academia to build North Vector Dynamics, the importance of hiring exceptional engineers, and the sacrifices required to create a business capable of protecting nations in an increasingly uncertain world. The conversation explores the future of defence innovation, from AI and autonomous systems to manufacturing at scale and hypersonic technologies. Paul also offers practical advice for engineers considering entrepreneurship, explaining why purpose, ownership and meaningful work matter more than prestige, and why the next generation of engineers should focus on solving problems that truly make a difference. The Techne Connect Podcast 🎧 Thank you for listening to Techne Connect! This podcast takes you inside the companies and conversations shaping the future of engineering. From space and defence to robotics, AI,…

Building a career in the space industry isn't always about following a linear path. In this episode of Connect To Orbit, Amy Miller, Head of Talent & People Operations at Portal Space Systems, shares how a career spanning global technology companies, including Amazon's satellite division, led her to one of the most exciting startups in commercial space. Amy offers a unique perspective on what it takes to attract, develop and retain world-class engineering talent in a rapidly growing industry. From hiring strategies and company culture to the technical skills shaping the future of space, she explains why curiosity, values alignment and solving real-world problems are becoming the foundations of successful space businesses. Whether you're an engineer, graduate or business leader, this episode provides practical advice for building a meaningful career in one of the world's fastest-moving industries. The Techne Connect Podcast 🎧 Thank you for listening to Techne Connect! This podcast takes you inside the…

In this episode of Connect To Visionaries, we speak with Kris Moell, Founder & CEO of Frost Unmanned, to explore an entrepreneurial journey that spans aviation, international operations and defence technology. From flying aircraft parts across the US and working in Indonesia to building a next-generation defence company in Sweden, Kris shares how his career evolved through curiosity, resilience and a willingness to embrace new challenges. The conversation explores how first-hand experiences in Ukraine reshaped his mission, why simplicity and automation will define the future of defence technology, and the leadership lessons he's learned while scaling a fast-growing startup. This episode offers valuable insights for engineers, founders and defence professionals interested in innovation, autonomous systems, military technology and building companies with purpose. The Techne Connect Podcast 🎧 Thank you for listening to Techne Connect! This podcast takes you inside the companies and conversations shaping the…

Ethan Barajas, Co-Founder and CEO of Icarus Robotics, shares how an internship at NASA transformed his career ambitions and inspired him to tackle one of space's biggest challenges: labour. Rather than sending more astronauts to perform repetitive maintenance tasks, Ethan is building robotic systems capable of operating autonomously in orbit, unlocking the future of commercial space infrastructure. From securing customer validation before writing a single line of code to preparing for a NASA deployment, he explains how listening to customers has shaped every stage of Icarus Robotics' journey. The conversation also explores the entrepreneurial mindset required to build a deep-tech company, why commercial space is entering a new era of infrastructure investment, and how robotics will become the workforce that enables humanity's expansion beyond Earth. Ethan shares lessons on resilience, purpose, leadership and why solving meaningful problems, not chasing technology for technology's sake, is what ultimately…

Jackson Moses, Founder and Managing Partner of Silent Ventures, joins Connect to Venture Capital to discuss why defence technology is entering a new era of investment. Drawing on his experience as both a founder and investor, he explains how Silent Ventures identifies exceptional operators building the next generation of defence, aerospace and national security companies, and why manufacturing, hardware and industrial capability will define the future of innovation. The conversation also provides practical advice for founders preparing to raise capital. Jackson shares what venture capital firms truly look for beyond technical expertise, why founders must obsess over solving real problems before seeking investment, and how confidence, preparation and resilience separate the companies that secure funding from those that don't. The Techne Connect Podcast 🎧 Thank you for listening to Techne Connect! This podcast takes you inside the companies and conversations shaping the future of engineering. From space and…

In this episode of Connect to Visionaries, we speak with Joakim Sjöblom, Co-Founder & CEO of SWEBAL, about the urgent need to strengthen Europe's defence manufacturing capabilities. Drawing on his experience building and exiting a successful fintech business, Joakim explains why he turned his focus to defence and the importance of creating resilient, sovereign supply chains. Together, they explore the manufacturing bottlenecks facing the European defence sector, the impact of NATO expansion, and why collaboration with established defence primes is essential to increasing production capacity. It's an insightful conversation on entrepreneurship, innovation, and the strategic thinking required to build the future of European defence. The Techne Connect Podcast 🎧 Thank you for listening to Techne Connect! This podcast takes you inside the companies and conversations shaping the future of engineering. From space and defence to robotics, AI, clean energy, advanced manufacturing and next-generation mobility, each…

In this episode of Connect to Orbit, Joe Reed is joined by Jackie Teran, VP of Engineering at Forerunner, to explore the leadership principles shaping the future of GovTech. Jackie shares her unconventional journey into engineering, the importance of adaptability in a rapidly evolving industry, and why maintaining a growth mindset is essential for both individuals and organisations. The conversation also dives into geospatial intelligence, AI, customer-focused product development, and the technology helping governments build more resilient communities. From engineering culture to the future of digital infrastructure, Jackie offers valuable insights for anyone passionate about innovation, leadership, and creating meaningful impact through technology. The Techne Connect Podcast 🎧 Thank you for listening to Techne Connect! This podcast takes you inside the companies and conversations shaping the future of engineering. From space and defence to robotics, AI, clean energy, advanced manufacturing and…

In this episode of Connect to Defence Innovation, we sit down with Kenneth Skorpen, Co-Founder & CEO of BlinkTroll Robotics, to discuss how robotics and emerging technologies are transforming the future of defence. Together, they explore the challenges of developing innovative solutions for a rapidly evolving operational landscape and what it takes to deliver technology that makes a tangible impact. From the realities of building a defence technology company to the role of autonomy, innovation, and collaboration in strengthening military capability, Kenneth shares valuable insights into the future of defence robotics and the opportunities shaping the next generation of defence solutions. The Techne Connect Podcast 🎧 Thank you for listening to Techne Connect! This podcast takes you inside the companies and conversations shaping the future of engineering. From space and defence to robotics, AI, clean energy, advanced manufacturing and next-generation mobility, each episode features the founders, engineers and…

In this episode of Connect to Visionaries, Joe Reed sits down with Josh Hiebner, Co-Founder and Head of Growth at Bandelier Technologies, to explore the intersection of quantum technology, defence innovation, and entrepreneurship. Josh shares his journey from serving in Special Forces to building a defence-native quantum company, discussing the urgency behind emerging technologies, the challenges of commercialising frontier innovation, and why mission-driven teams are essential to shaping the future of modern warfare. The Techne Connect Podcast 🎧 Thank you for listening to Techne Connect! This podcast takes you inside the companies and conversations shaping the future of engineering. From space and defence to robotics, AI, clean energy, advanced manufacturing and next-generation mobility, each episode features the founders, engineers and technology leaders building tomorrow's world. Through candid discussions on innovation, leadership, product development and career journeys, the podcast uncovers the ideas,…

In this episode of Behind the Orbit, Joe Reed sits down with Felix Motzki, CTO of Reflex Aerospace, to discuss his unconventional journey into the space industry, from biomedical engineering and ultrasound imaging to leading one of Europe’s fastest-growing satellite companies. Felix shares the lessons learned from scaling teams through IPOs, navigating challenging leadership decisions, and helping build spacecraft designed for missions that standard satellite platforms cannot support. The conversation explores the evolution of Europe’s space sector, the rise of NewSpace companies, the importance of technical expertise and ownership in engineering careers, and how Reflex Aerospace is redefining satellite development through highly customised, payload-centric spacecraft. Felix also shares his outlook on the future of the industry, upcoming missions, and what it takes to build a world-class engineering culture. The Techne Connect Podcast 🎧 Thank you for listening to Techne Connect! This podcast takes you inside…