The 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 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 acast.com/privacy for more information.

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, 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 acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 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 acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 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 acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 drives lasting innovation. 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 acast.com/privacy for more information.

From DARPA Grand Challenge spectator to robotics director: Rami's journey at Robust AIRami, Director of Robotic Systems at Robust AI, traces his path from watching the 2004 DARPA Grand Challenge as a kid where his father competed, to building robots at Apple, Amazon, and now Robust AI.In this episode, he shares what it's like coming full circle to compete in the very challenges that first inspired him, why safety and "human-first" design are core to Robust AI's approach and what roles the team is hiring for right now, from motion controls to fleet simulation.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 acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 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 acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 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 acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 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 acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 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 acast.com/privacy for more information.

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, 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 acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 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 acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Behind the Vision, Tom Sloan speaks with Sanal Kamal, Founder & CEO of Photon-IV, about the future of global connectivity and the growing convergence between satellite and terrestrial networks. Sanal shares how his journey from engineering roles in defence and photonics led him to uncover a critical gap in how modern systems stay connected.The conversation explores how space is rapidly becoming core infrastructure for industries like telecoms, defence, and autonomous systems. Sanal explains why the next generation of networks will rely on seamless handovers between satellites and cell towers, and how Photon-IV is building the orchestration layer to make that possible in an increasingly complex, contested, and connected world.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 acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this inspiring episode of Behind the Influence, Molly-May Brissett sits down with Madison Feehan, Founder and CEO of Space Copy, to explore her remarkable journey from a teenage NASA intern to leading a pioneering space technology company. Madison shares how Space Copy is transforming additive manufacturing by developing rugged 3D printing systems capable of operating in extreme environments, from disaster zones and remote Arctic communities to future missions on the Moon and Mars. She also reflects on the challenges of building a company in the highly competitive space and defence sectors and the perseverance required to turn ambitious ideas into reality.The conversation also highlights the importance of female representation in STEM, with Madison offering candid insights into navigating a male-dominated industry and the responsibility she feels to mentor the next generation of women entering the field. From discussing emerging trends like AI-powered space infrastructure and orbital data centres to sharing practical career advice on developing both technical and business skills, Madison provides a powerful perspective on innovation, leadership, and creating opportunities for future pioneers in 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 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 acast.com/privacy for more information.

What happens when space stops being a distant frontier and becomes part of everyday life? In this episode of Behind the Orbit, Pratish Shah, General Manager of Classified Programs at AI Tech Systems, shares how advances in satellite technology, AI, and space infrastructure are accelerating a future where space plays a far greater role in industries here on Earth. From building palm-sized satellites that deliver powerful capabilities to enabling new applications in communications, manufacturing, and environmental monitoring, Pratish explains why the next wave of innovation will extend well beyond our planet.Drawing on decades of experience across technology, aerospace, and defence, Pratish also discusses the importance of continuous learning in a world changing faster than ever before. He reflects on lessons from helping build a startup through IPO, the growing impact of AI across industries, and why the most valuable professionals are those who can continually adapt and evolve. For anyone interested in space, technology, innovation, or the future of work, this conversation offers a fascinating glimpse into what's coming next.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 acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bryan Mabry, Partner at New North Ventures, joins Behind the Capital to discuss his journey from the U.S. intelligence community and government service into venture capital. Drawing on experience as both an operator and investor, Bryan explains how New North backs early-stage dual-use technologies and why supporting founders goes far beyond simply writing a cheque.The conversation explores emerging opportunities across autonomy, defence technology, space infrastructure and critical enabling technologies. Bryan also shares practical fundraising advice for technical founders, covering everything from cap table management and team building to common fundraising mistakes and what investors are really looking for when evaluating early-stage companies.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 acast.com/privacy for more information.

What happens when artificial intelligence moves beyond software and into the physical world?In this episode of Behind the Robot, Molly-May Brissett speaks with Brandon Coats, Director of Engineering at NoMagic AI, about the technologies driving the next generation of robotics. From Vision-Language-Action models and AI agents to autonomous systems and the future of industrial automation, Brandon explains why robotics is entering its biggest period of transformation yet.Drawing on decades of experience building engineering teams and deploying advanced robotic systems around the world, Brandon also shares practical career advice, why solving difficult problems accelerates professional growth, and the skills engineers need to thrive in an AI-driven future.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 acast.com/privacy for more information.

Alex Fink, Founder & CEO of Swarmer, joins Behind the Orbit to explore how autonomous systems are transforming modern defence. Drawing on his experience at the intersection of software, strategy, and national security, Alex explains why the future of warfare will be shaped less by hardware and more by the ability to coordinate autonomous systems at scale.The conversation covers the rise of autonomous operations, the role of software as a strategic advantage, and what it takes to build the infrastructure that enables humans and machines to work together effectively in increasingly complex environments.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 acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Behind the Orbit, we speak with Darko Filipi, VP of Space Systems at Overview Energy, a company building the next generation of space-based energy infrastructure.Darko shares his journey from astrophysics and spacecraft engineering to working on some of the most ambitious space systems ever conceived, including CubeSats, human spaceflight systems, and large-scale commercial satellite networks.We explore how space is rapidly evolving from a government-led research domain into a commercial infrastructure layer powering Earth. Darko breaks down Overview Energy’s mission to beam safe, near-infrared energy from space to the grid, and what it takes to engineer systems at kilometre scale under extreme constraints.Along the way, we dive into leadership in high-performance engineering teams, the importance of ownership and execution culture, and why the future of space is less about science fiction and more about industrial-scale systems thinking.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 acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Behind the Vision, Pietro Guerrieri, Founder & CEO of Impulso Space, shares his remarkable journey from serving as a military pilot in the Italian Air Force to leading one of the space sector's most innovative launch service providers. Pietro reflects on the experiences that shaped his entrepreneurial mindset, the importance of discipline, continuous learning, and the pivotal career decisions that ultimately led him to found Impulso Space.The conversation explores the evolution of the global space industry, the rise of New Space, and the growing need for integrated launch and logistics services. Pietro discusses the challenges of building a company in a rapidly changing market, the sacrifices required to pursue ambitious goals, and his vision for a future where access to space becomes more streamlined, reliable, and commercially driven. He also shares valuable advice for aspiring founders, insights into the skills shaping the future of the sector, and why resilience remains one of the most important qualities for success.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 acast.com/privacy for more information.

What if sending a sensor to orbit became as simple as booking a flight? In this episode of Behind the Vision, Theophile Lagraulet, Co-Founder and CEO of SpaceLocker, shares how his team is reimagining the future of space missions by building the infrastructure layer that could transform access to orbit.From launching their first mission within just two years of founding the company to operating spacecraft and creating a marketplace for orbital hosting, Theophile explains why the future of space isn't just about rockets it's about accessibility, speed, and scalable infrastructure. Packed with insights on entrepreneurship, engineering, innovation, and the evolution of the space economy, this is a must-listen for anyone fascinated by the next chapter of 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 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 acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Behind the Robot, we speak with Christian Eberhardt, CTO and Founder of ARIS Robotics, a company building intelligent systems for waste sorting and recycling infrastructure.Christian shares his unconventional journey from sailing across the Atlantic and teaching navigation on tall ships, to studying robotics and co-founding a startup straight out of university. He reflects on the role of hands-on experience, the importance of saying “yes” to opportunity, and why robotics is as much about resilience and iteration as it is about engineering.We dive deep into the future of waste management, from AI-powered sorting systems to national recycling schemes and the untapped global potential of automation in the waste industry. Christian also explores how Denmark is leading parts of the circular economy and where robotics, AI, and human decision-making intersect.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 acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Behind the Vision, we speak with Kevin Lausten, CEO of Morpheus Space, about the future of space mobility, satellite propulsion, and sustainable orbital operations.Kevin shares his journey into the space industry, discusses how agile startups are reshaping aerospace innovation, and explains why responsible satellite operations will be critical to the future of the commercial space economy.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 acast.com/privacy for more information.

<iframe data-testid="embed-iframe" style="border-radius:12px" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/2y4aovgoJAk0shYbJKKrNg/video?utm_source=generator&si=eb8ef74433aa4600" width="624" height="351" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen="" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" loading="lazy"></iframe>In this episode of Behind the Vision, Kevin Nortker, Co-Founder and CEO of Ampaire, discusses how hybrid-electric propulsion is transforming the aviation industry and why practical electrification is the key to sustainable flight. He shares his journey from working on stealth technology and space robotics to leading one of the world’s most advanced electrified aircraft companies.The conversation explores the challenges of battery technology, charging infrastructure, aircraft certification, and why Ampaire believes hybrid-electric systems are the most scalable solution for aviation today. Kevin also shares insights into entrepreneurship, start-up culture, leadership, and what it takes to build meaningful innovation in aerospace.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 acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Behind the Robot, we sit down with Tom Yeshurun, Co-Founder and CEO of Civ Robotics, to discuss how robotics is transforming the construction and renewable energy sectors.Tom shares his journey from civil engineering and construction management to building one of the leading robotics companies in infrastructure development. He discusses the challenges of scaling a startup, the importance of solving real-world problems, and how autonomous technology is helping address labour shortages while accelerating the deployment of renewable energy projects worldwide.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 acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Behind the Flight, Tom Sloan is joined by Ben Williams, Chief Operating Officer at Exyn Technologies. Ben shares his journey from serving in the US Navy to becoming a serial entrepreneur and deep tech leader, reflecting on the lessons he learned transitioning from military service into industry and building innovative technology businesses.The conversation explores the future of autonomy, robotics and AI, as well as Exyn's mission to develop autonomous navigation systems that can operate without GPS, communications infrastructure or pre-existing maps. Ben also discusses leadership, startup growth and why understanding the "how" and "why" behind complex systems is critical for long-term success.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 acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode we speak with Lukas Werling, CEO and Co-Founder of ISPTech, about building in-space propulsion systems for the next generation of spacecraft.Lukas shares his journey from the German Aerospace Center to founding ISPTech, the importance of understanding customer pain points, and why propulsion will be a key enabler for future space infrastructure, from commercial space stations to lunar missions and in-orbit servicing.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 acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode we speak with Sumant Sharma, CEO & Co-Founder of EraDrive, about his journey from aerospace research at Stanford University into building autonomous systems for the future of space operations.Sumant shares insights into launching a venture-backed space startup, the growing need for self-driving spacecraft, and how AI, autonomy, and real-time decision-making will shape the next generation of 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 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 acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Behind the Vision, we speak with John Quinn, Founder and CEO of Exos Aerospace, about his journey from nuclear submarines and power systems into reusable rocket technology.John shares how his background in high-risk engineering environments shaped his data-driven approach to building and scaling aerospace systems. The conversation explores reusable rockets, launch licensing, carbon composite structures, advanced propulsion, cislunar infrastructure, and why small, agile teams will play a major role in the future space economy.The episode also covers entrepreneurship, technical leadership, rapid prototyping, defence applications, and the skills needed to build reliable systems for space.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 acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Behind the Capital, Nicola Sinclair discusses venture capital, defence tech, and deep tech innovation across Europe. She shares insights on startup growth, founder resilience, fundraising challenges, and why clear communication and adaptability are critical for technical founders building in sectors like AI, aerospace, and 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 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 acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode we speak with Christine Matthews, Technology Programme Director at GKN Aerospace, about her journey from the Royal Air Force into sustainable aviation and aerospace innovation.Christine shares insights from her 22-year military career, the future of hydrogen and electrical propulsion systems, and why adaptability, diversity, and purpose-driven engineering will shape the future of the aerospace 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 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 acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Behind the Mission, Alec Lynn Rogers, Development Design Director at Kraken Technology group, shares how the company is transforming autonomous maritime defence.From scaling Kraken from 7 to 170+ employees to building deployable autonomous vessels at unprecedented speed, Alec discusses engineering innovation, scalable manufacturing, defence modernisation, and the future of unmanned maritime systems.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 acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Behind the Robot, we are joined by Ido Genosar, CEO and Co-Founder of Verobotics, to discuss how autonomous robotics is transforming high-rise building maintenance. Ido shares the story behind building a robotics company from scratch, scaling globally, and tackling one of the construction industry's most dangerous jobs.The conversation explores the future of physical AI, the growing demand for automation, and the lessons learned from commercialising hardware technology in real-world environments. A must-listen for anyone interested in robotics, innovation, start-ups and the future of work.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 acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode we speak with Emeline Paat-Dahlstrom, CEO and Co-Founder of SpaceBase, about her journey through the global space industry and her mission to democratize access to space.Emeline shares insights from working in space education, space tourism, and startup ecosystems, while discussing the future of the industry, the importance of diversity, and the growing opportunities emerging across the space sector.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 acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode we speak with James Cooper, Chief Operating Officer at Anatra, about his journey from the US Marine Corps into defence technology and autonomous aviation.James shares lessons from 22 years as a Marine officer and F-18 pilot, before moving into software, telecommunications, and now startup leadership.The conversation explores military transition, leadership, networking, defence innovation, autonomous cargo aircraft, and why logistics will play a critical role in the future of contested operations.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 acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode we speak with Ashton Meginnis, Head of Space Systems at AstroForge, about building the first commercially funded deep space vehicle and the future of asteroid mining.Ashton shares his journey from childhood dreams of exploring the cosmos to leading rapid spacecraft development at AstroForge, including how the team designed, built, and launched a deep space mission in just four months. We discuss the challenges of creating affordable and reliable access to deep space, the growing opportunity around asteroid resources like platinum, and why in-house engineering is critical for accelerating innovation in 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 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 acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode we speak with Nicolas Gaume, Co-Founder and CEO of Space Cargo Unlimited, about building the infrastructure for in-space manufacturing.Nicolas shares how Space Cargo Unlimited is using microgravity to create new opportunities across agriculture, pharmaceuticals, materials, electronics, and biotechnology. The conversation explores space manufacturing, commercial space infrastructure, microgravity research, reusable space systems, and the company’s upcoming flight with Atmos Space Cargo.The episode also covers Nicolas’ entrepreneurial journey, the story behind Space Cargo’s wine mission, and why Europe has a major role to play in the next phase of the space economy.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 acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode we speak with Stan Sabatier, R&D Offboard Software Director at Movu Robotics France, about building reliable robotic systems for warehouse environments.Stan shares his journey from SaaS, infrastructure, media, and entrepreneurship into robotics, and explains why modern robotics is shifting from individual robot performance to full system reliability.The conversation explores fleet orchestration, observability, explainability, simulation, production resilience, and why staying close to real-world operations is critical. Stan also shares why simplicity is a serious design choice, and why the next generation of robotics talent needs strong system-level thinking.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 acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode we speak with Jesús Manuel Muñoz Tejeda, Founder of Persei Space, about his journey from academia into building a space sustainability startup.Jesús shares his background in space propulsion, his path through leading universities across Europe and the US, and how he transitioned from research into entrepreneurship.The conversation focuses on the realities of building a deep tech startup in the space sector, from securing funding and delaying salary to testing ideas before committing full time.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 acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode we speak with Nicolas Moulin-Fournier, Chief Product Officer at Look Up, about his journey from space telecom and strategy consulting to space situational awareness.Nicolas shares how his time at Eutelsat shaped his approach to product development, customer needs, and bringing complex space services to market. The conversation explores why space is becoming more congested and contested, how Look Up is building radar infrastructure to track objects in low Earth orbit, and why space safety is critical to life on Earth. Nicolas also discusses the skills needed in the space sector, from engineering and AI to product, marketing, and commercial roles.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 acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode we speaks with Benjamin Perez, CEO of Arachnid Systems, about building robotic inspection technology for aerospace, defence, space, and infrastructure.Benjamin shares how his background in aerospace manufacturing, product distribution, and hands-on engineering shaped the creation of Arachnid Systems. The conversation explores aerospace maintenance, inspection bottlenecks, predictive analytics, robotics, sensor data, and why physical data will play a major role in reducing aircraft downtime.The episode also covers startup pivots, customer-led product development, company culture, and the skills needed to build robotics systems for highly regulated industries.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 acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode we speak with Brook Leonard, CEO at Rogue Space Systems, about his journey from the US Air Force into commercial space leadership.Brook shares how his experience as a pilot and leader shaped his approach to building teams, solving complex problems, and driving execution in high-pressure environments. The conversation explores the shift towards a new space economy, where infrastructure, logistics, and autonomy are becoming critical to scaling operations in orbit. Brook also explains how Rogue Space Systems is developing in-orbit logistics, payload containers, servicing vehicles, and autonomous software to support the next generation of space missions.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 acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode we speak with Avi Shabtai, CEO at Ramon Space, about his journey from deep tech and data centres into the space sector.Avi shares how Ramon Space is building computing infrastructure in orbit to support the next generation of data-driven space applications.The conversation explores how ideas move from concept to execution, the balance between innovation and commercialisation, and why early customer engagement plays a critical role. Avi also explains how space is shifting from an isolated sector into a connected extension of Earth’s infrastructure, and what this means for engineers and entrepreneurs.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 acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode we speak with Chip Walter, Partner at Marlinspike Partners, about his journey from the US Navy and CIA into venture capital.Chip shares how his experience across defence, intelligence, and innovation shaped his approach to investing, with a focus on technologies that deliver real impact to the warfighter.The conversation explores the rise of dual-use technology, why AI and autonomy are reshaping modern defence, and how venture capital plays a role in accelerating capability development. They also discuss common mistakes founders make when raising capital, what investors look for beyond technical strength, and why building the right team and funding strategy is critical to long-term successThe 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 acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode we speak with Ben Cipperley, Chief Strategy Officer at Havoc AI, about his transition from 26 years in the US Navy into defence technology leadership.Ben shares how his Navy career shaped his approach to strategy, autonomous systems, and decision-making in high-pressure environments.The conversation explores collaborative autonomy, command and control, multi-domain defence systems, startup culture, and how Havoc AI is helping operators control large numbers of autonomous assets at scale.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 acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode we speak with Rob Alford from Havoc about his transition from the US Navy into one of the fastest-growing defence technology startups.Rob shares his journey through mechanical engineering, nuclear propulsion systems, aircraft carrier operations, and emerging technology experimentation before moving into autonomous defence systems.The conversation explores collaborative autonomy, robotics, defence innovation, startup culture, military leadership, and the future of multi-domain autonomous operations across maritime, aerial, and land systems.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 acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode we speak with Sanjay Ralhan, VP of Airworthiness and Certification at Atropos Group, about his 30-year journey across aviation, regulation, certification, and autonomous aircraft development.Sanjay shares lessons from his time at Boeing, the FAA, Virgin Galactic, and now Atropos Group, where he is helping shape the certification pathway for a clean-sheet autonomous aircraft.The conversation explores why certification should never be treated as an afterthought, how safety and innovation must evolve together, and why certification expertise is becoming one of the most important skill sets in aviation.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 acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode we speak with Enrique Oti, Chief Strategy Officer at Second Front Systems, about his journey from the US Air Force into defence technology.Enrique shares his experience as a cyber warfare officer, China Foreign Area Officer, and founder of Kessel Run, before moving into industry to help modern software reach the warfighter faster.The conversation explores the challenge of bringing commercial technology into defence environments, why compliance and security need to move beyond manual processes, and how Second Front Systems is enabling faster, more secure deployment into government infrastructure.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 acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Behind the Influence, we speak with Kateryna Portmann, Women in Robotics, Co-Lead and lecturer in robotics and Physical AI.Kateryna shares her journey into robotics, from neurorehabilitation technology to industrial inspection robots, and explains why representation, visibility and access matter in engineering. She also discusses how robotics is evolving, why inclusive teams build better products, and what the next generation of women in tech should know as they build their careers.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 acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Behind the Mission, we speak with Derek Austin, Head of Computer Vision at ZeroMark, about building computer vision systems for counter-drone defence.Derek shares his journey from computer science and self-supervised learning to leading computer vision development at ZeroMark. The conversation explores edge deployment, startup culture, defence technology, counter-UAS systems, drone warfare, and why curiosity, ownership, and high agency matter in fast-moving technical teams.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 acast.com/privacy for more information.