Founder, Electric Air Mobility, LLC
AAM Strategy Consultant | Vertiport Infrastructure Expert | Industry Commentator

Nicolas Zart is one of the most visible voices in Advanced Air Mobility (AAM), with over 20 years in electric mobility and a decade focused on eVTOLs and urban air integration. As founder of Electric Air Mobility, LLC, he works with leading OEMs, airports, city planners, and startups to build scalable, sustainable vertiport infrastructure and develop actionable strategies for the future of aerial mobility.

His consultancy merges hands-on technical experience with thought leadership across communications, regulatory navigation, and ecosystem integration. Nicolas is also co-founder and curator of the Airport AAM MasterClass, a premier forum aligning real-world airport professionals with scalable AAM implementation strategies.

A respected voice in the industry, Nicolas is a frequent keynote speaker, panelist, and author, contributing to Vertiflite, CleanTechnica, and other industry platforms. With his global perspective, multicultural background, and sharp insight into the intersection of infrastructure, technology, and policy, Nicolas helps the AAM sector turn vision into execution.

At eVTOL SHOW USA, he will speak on vertiport scalability, multi-modal mobility integration, and how the AAM ecosystem can mature into a safe, profitable, and equitable transport network.

Head of Infrastructure,
Joby Aviation

Andy Krebs is Head of Infrastructure at Joby Aviation, a pioneer in electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft and advanced air mobility solutions. A results-driven engineering leader, Andy is passionate about building the systems and facilities that will enable the next generation of sustainable aviation.

With a deep commitment to engineering excellence and design rigor, he has led complex, interdisciplinary projects from concept to completion—delivering high-quality outcomes on aggressive schedules and budgets. His background spans infrastructure development, systems integration, and large-scale project execution, always grounded in first-principles problem solving and effective cross-functional collaboration.

At Joby, Andy oversees the planning and deployment of the company’s eVTOL infrastructure network, ensuring seamless integration between aircraft, charging systems, and urban operations.

Andy’s participation in the eVTOL SHOW provides valuable insight into the infrastructure challenges and opportunities shaping the future of electric aviation.

CEO & CoFounder,
VOLTAIQ

Tal Sholklapper is the CEO and co-founder of Voltaiq, the company that pioneered the category of Battery Intelligence and continues to lead the field in battery performance and quality analytics. A visionary technologist and entrepreneur, Tal has played a foundational role in transforming how companies across automotive, consumer electronics, and energy storage sectors design, validate, and manage batteries throughout their lifecycle.

Under Tal’s leadership, Voltaiq has developed a robust, data-driven software platform that empowers engineering, quality, and operations teams with real-time insights into battery performance, accelerating development timelines and ensuring system reliability. Today, Voltaiq’s solutions are trusted by many of the world’s leading battery manufacturers and OEMs, delivering measurable impact across global supply chains and next-generation energy systems.

With a background in advanced energy systems and a deep understanding of both technical and business challenges in battery development, Tal brings a unique blend of domain expertise and strategic foresight. Prior to founding Voltaiq, he held technical leadership roles at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory and in the cleantech startup ecosystem, where he worked on cutting-edge battery research and commercialization.

Tal’s participation in the eVTOL Show brings critical insight into the future of electrification, offering a compelling perspective on battery data infrastructure, quality assurance at scale, and the technologies enabling a more reliable, efficient, and sustainable energy future.

CTO and Co-Founder,
VOLTAIQ

Eli Leland is the Chief Technology Officer and co-founder of Voltaiq, the industry leader in Battery Intelligence software, where he oversees the company’s technical vision and product strategy. A seasoned technologist with deep roots in energy systems and software development, Eli has been instrumental in shaping the tools that enable the world’s top battery developers to accelerate innovation, ensure quality, and scale energy storage technologies with confidence.

At Voltaiq, Eli leads multidisciplinary teams building robust data infrastructure and advanced analytics platforms tailored specifically for the battery lifecycle—from R&D and validation through manufacturing and field deployment. His work bridges the complex technical demands of electrochemical systems with intuitive, enterprise-grade software solutions that deliver actionable insights to engineers, executives, and stakeholders alike.

Prior to Voltaiq, Eli held key roles in energy R&D and commercialization at ARPA-E, the City University of New York (CUNY), and the University of California, Berkeley. His background spans advanced battery research, grid-scale energy storage, and software-enabled cleantech innovation, making him a rare hybrid of hands-on engineer and strategic product thinker. He is also known for his ability to communicate complex technical concepts across disciplines—an essential skill in the fast-moving world of electrification and energy innovation.

Eli’s participation in the eVTOL Show brings deep insight into the data-driven transformation of the battery industry, offering perspectives on scalable software architecture, cross-functional product development, and the evolving role of digital tools in enabling the global energy transition.

Senior Director, PhD Manager of Product Development, Henkel

Rob Murano is a seasoned photonics and semiconductor leader advancing the role of precision laser technology in electric aviation as Senior Director of Product Development and Commercialization at Coherent. With over two decades of experience spanning R&D, manufacturing, and go-to-market strategy, Rob drives innovation at the intersection of materials processing, advanced manufacturing, and aerospace applications.

At Coherent, Rob leads the development and commercialization of high-performance laser systems and photonic solutions that enable the fabrication of lightweight structures, battery components, and power electronics critical to eVTOL platforms. His work supports manufacturers in achieving higher precision, greater efficiency, and improved scalability in the production of next-generation electric aircraft.

Rob’s background includes leadership roles across photonics startups and global technology firms, where he has guided new technologies from lab to full-scale industrial deployment. He brings deep technical and strategic insight into how advanced laser processing can transform manufacturing in sectors demanding high reliability and performance.

Through close collaboration with aerospace and energy innovators, Rob is helping accelerate the adoption of photonics as a foundational enabler of advanced air mobility.

Founder & Co-Chairman,
TPC

Dan Brumlik is Co-Founder and Co-Chairman of The Partners Companies (TPC), a strategic network of specialty manufacturers serving innovators across aerospace, defense, clean energy, medical, technology, and telecom industries.

TPC has evolved from a single business into a strategic network of 10 specialty manufactures across the United States, China, Mexico and Wales. As we embark on our long-term strategic growth plan, we aim to identify and acquire advanced manufacturing companies that will continue to expand our capabilities and capacity to serve our customers. We at TPC are known for successfully manufacturing mission-critical precision parts, components, and assemblies for leaders across industries we serve, and are pursuing aggressive strategies to continue our growth.

Aerospace & Defense Industry Solution Experience Director, Dassault Systèmes

Roberto Licata is a digital engineering leader shaping the future of aerospace innovation as Aerospace & Defense Industry Solution Experience Director at Dassault Systèmes. With over two decades of experience in aircraft systems, digital transformation, and virtual twin technology, Roberto plays a pivotal role in enabling eVTOL and AAM developers to accelerate certification, reduce complexity, and bring breakthrough aircraft to market faster.

At Dassault Systèmes, Roberto guides aerospace organizations in leveraging the 3DEXPERIENCE® platform to integrate multidisciplinary engineering, simulation, manufacturing, and compliance processes in a unified digital environment. His work empowers OEMs and startups alike to manage complexity, enhance collaboration, and ensure traceability from concept through certification.

Roberto’s background includes leadership in systems engineering, model-based development, and enterprise digital strategy across commercial aviation, defense, and emerging aerospace segments. He is a recognized advocate for virtual twin experiences as a transformative approach to developing safe, sustainable, and certifiable eVTOL systems.

Through close collaboration with regulators, airframers, and suppliers, Roberto is helping define the digital standards and tools that will support the future of autonomous and electric aviation.

President & Founder,
Bloomy

With over three decades of experience in automated test systems, Peter Blume is a renowned leader in real-time simulation and validation technologies for aerospace and electric aviation. As President and Founder of Bloomy, Peter has led the company’s transformation into a pioneer of Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) testing for avionics, batteries, and flight control systems, specifically supporting eVTOL system integration labs (SILs) and certification efforts.

A recognized authority on software best practices, Peter authored the industry-standard reference The LabVIEW Style Book, setting the benchmark for structured software development in test and automation. Under his leadership, Bloomy has become an NI Platinum Partner, developing cutting-edge tools such as the eVTOL Integrated HIL Test System—a first-of-its-kind solution that provides closed-loop, real-time testing for electric aircraft propulsion, battery management, and control surfaces.

Peter’s deep technical and strategic insights are instrumental to organizations seeking to reduce time-to-certification, increase test repeatability, and accelerate digital transformation in aerospace R&D environments. His work bridges simulation, verification, and hardware testing—delivering high-fidelity, repeatable test environments for complex, safety-critical electric aviation systems.

At eVTOL SHOW USA, Peter will share how integrated simulation platforms are redefining system development and validation—from tip to battery to tail—for next-generation air mobility.

CEO,
Theion

Dr. Ulrich Ehmes is the Chief Executive Officer of theion GmbH, a Berlin-based lithium-sulfur battery start-up, since 2022. Targeting 3x energy density at 1/3 of the cost and 1/3 of the CO 2 footprint of today’s lithium-ion batteries.

He also serves on the management boards of three German governmental battery research clusters, each with €30m funding, helping shape national battery innovation strategy.

As Managing Director of SETA Consulting (since 2016), he has led international projects in battery technology across multiple industries.

In parallel, he has been a board member of the German Lithium-Ion Battery Association (KLIB), representing the full battery value chain.

From 2010 to 2014, he was CEO and COO of Leclanché SA (Switzerland), a publicly listed lithium-ion cell manufacturer. Under his leadership, Leclanché built a production site for lithium ion batteries in Germany and expanded its position in the European energy storage sector.

Before entering the battery industry, he spent over 15 years with Leica Camera AG,including as Managing Director in of Leica’s main production site in Portugal and as Head of the Sportopics Business Unit in Germany.

This provided him with extensive operational and industrial leadership experience in high-tech manufacturing.

He holds a Ph.D. and Diplom-Ingenieur in Electronics from the Technical University of Darmstadt, as well as an MBA from IEDE Business School in Madrid.

With more than 16 years in batteries and broad industry expertise, Dr. Ehmes combines deep technical insight with proven executive leadership to advance next-generation energy storage.

Director Advanced Research,
VAC Magnetics, LLC

Niklas Volbers is a materials science and magnetics expert driving innovation in electric propulsion as Director of Advanced Research at VAC Magnetics. With a strong background in advanced magnetic materials and their applications in high-performance motors, Niklas plays a key role in enabling the next generation of efficient, compact, and powerful eVTOL propulsion systems.

At VAC Magnetics, Niklas leads research and development efforts focused on cutting-edge magnetic alloys and technologies that meet the demanding requirements of electric aviation. His work supports the design of lighter, more efficient electric motors and generators—critical components in achieving the performance, range, and sustainability targets of advanced air mobility platforms.

Niklas brings deep technical expertise in soft magnetic composites, rare-earth magnets, and system-level electromagnetic optimization. His research bridges the gap between materials science and real-world aerospace applications, helping manufacturers push the limits of energy density, thermal performance, and durability in electric aircraft systems.

A frequent collaborator with aerospace OEMs and motor designers, Niklas is shaping the material innovations that will define the future of electrified flight.

Chief Growth Officer, Machines,
MTorres

Manu Motilva is Chief Growth Officer, Machines at MTorres, a global leader in advanced manufacturing systems and automation for the aerospace and industrial sectors. With a strong background in technical business development and automated composite fabrication, Manu has spent his career bridging engineering excellence with strategic growth initiatives that drive innovation and competitiveness.

An expert in manufacturing engineering, aeronautics, and R&D, Manu has played a key role in developing and deploying advanced automation solutions for composite structures used in next-generation aircraft and industrial applications. His experience spans concept design through production integration, combining technical depth with a commercial mindset to help global customers achieve higher efficiency and precision.

A graduate of Private Fachhochschule Göttingen, Manu brings over two decades of experience in machinery and composite technologies.

His participation in the eVTOL SHOW highlights the critical role of advanced manufacturing and automation in enabling scalable, high-performance electric aircraft production.

Head of Electrification Section,
Oak Ridge National Laboratory

Dr. Ilias Belharouak is a globally recognized authority in energy storage systems and electrification technologies, currently serving as Corporate Fellow and Head of the Electrification Section at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). With nearly eight years at ORNL and over two decades of battery research experience, Dr. Belharouak leads the laboratory’s cutting-edge initiatives focused on developing high-performance batteries tailored to the unique demands of electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft.

His work addresses critical performance challenges across the eVTOL flight envelope—including rapid power draw during takeoff and hover, thermal stress, cycle life degradation, and the need for lightweight, high-energy-density chemistries. Under his leadership, ORNL’s battery research programs are pioneering both next-generation lithium-ion technologies and alternative chemistries to deliver safe, durable, and efficient energy solutions for urban air mobility.

Dr. Belharouak’s team conducts advanced battery testing under simulated flight conditions, enabling deep insights into material behavior, degradation mechanisms, and system-level integration. His contributions are helping to define the future of battery performance, safety, and certification readiness for electric aviation.

At the eVTOL SHOW, Dr. Belharouak will share the latest findings from ORNL’s battery R&D, offering invaluable technical perspectives on how to optimize energy storage for flight-critical applications.

Battery Applications Manager,
Lyten 

Dennis Wang is a veteran battery systems engineer with a deep track record of advancing next-generation battery technology from concept to commercial launch across the mobility spectrum. As Battery Applications Manager at Lyten, he plays a pivotal role in scaling lithium-sulfur battery systems built on the company’s proprietary 3D graphene platform—an innovation poised to transform eVTOL propulsion through significantly higher energy density, reduced weight, and enhanced endurance.

With more than a decade of hands-on experience in system design, validation, and launch across consumer electronics, electric vehicles, and commercial transportation, Dennis has held key roles at Our Next Energy (ONE), Nikola Corporation, and Romeo Power. At Nikola, he led the battery development for the Tre BEV and FCEV platforms, shepherding them from alpha prototypes to production, and driving architecture decisions critical to high-power, safety-compliant electrification.

Now at Lyten, Dennis is shaping how advanced lithium-sulfur chemistry can meet the extreme demands of eVTOL missions, including peak power draw for vertical takeoff, fast-charging readiness, and thermal management under rapid cycling. He’s at the forefront of aligning battery innovation with aerospace certification requirements and national supply chain security mandates.

Dennis brings a rare combination of technical rigor and commercialization experience, making him an authoritative voice on what it will take to deliver safe, scalable, and flight-worthy battery systems for the next era of electric aviation.

President & CEO,
Piasecki Aircraft Corp

John W. Piasecki, President & CEO of Piasecki Aircraft Corp., has over 35 years of experience in rotorcraft and UAV research and development for military and commercial use.

His achievements include flight demonstration of the X-49A compound helicopter, flight demonstration of the world’s first autonomous autogyro, and the first fully autonomous man-rated helicopter.

Current projects focus on VTOL UAS, adaptive flight control, morphing aerostructures and hydrogen propulsion technologies. Piasecki, who won the Vertical Flight Society’s Paul E. Haueter Award for VTOL development, also is Vice Chair of DoD’s Vertical Lift Consortium and a Trustee of the Foreign Policy Research Institute.

He holds a B.A. in Political Science from Yale and is an FAA-certified pilot.

Staff Engineer,
SimuTech Group

Jeff Collins holds a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from Washington State University and has over 7 years of experience in engineering and simulation. As a Staff Engineer at SimuTech Group, he focuses on computational fluid dynamics projects across various industries, including eVTOL and the broader aerospace sector. Collins specializes in overset meshing, hydrodynamics, and heat transfer and has several published articles related to experimental testing and numerical modeling, hydrodynamics of air-lubricated watercraft, and all-electric commercial aviation. Jeff’s knowledge has helped numerous companies develop aircraft components, systems, and workflows more efficiently, saving engineering teams time and money in their design processes.

At the eVTOL Show, Collins will share expert insights on advanced CFD modeling of a quadcopter drone using Ansys Fluent simulation software. Attendees will walk away with a better understanding of simulation’s role for eVTOL aircraft as well as actionable insights for their own eVTOL designs and analyses.

Associate Professor, University of Michigan
Co-Founder, Aionics, Chement, And Battery Aero 

Dr. Venkat Viswanathan is a leading voice in next-generation battery innovation, with a unique focus on electrifying aviation. As an Associate Professor at the University of Michigan, he heads one of the nation’s foremost research efforts into battery technologies purpose-built for electric flight.

Venkat is also the co-founder of multiple deep-tech startups, including And Battery Aero, which is pioneering battery chemistries tailored specifically for electric aircraft, and Aionics, a company applying AI to accelerate materials discovery for decarbonization. His work combines cutting-edge academic research with commercial application, giving him a dual perspective on what’s technically possible—and what’s viable at scale.

A recipient of prestigious honors including the NSF CAREER Award, ONR Young Investigator Award, and recognition as an MIT Technology Review Innovator Under 35, Venkat has also served as a technical advisor to QuantumScape, contributing to the advancement of solid-state battery technologies.

At the eVTOL SHOW, Venkat will share expert insights on aviation-specific battery requirements, the role of AI in accelerating battery development, and the path to creating lightweight, energy-dense, certifiable power systems for eVTOL aircraft.

SVP Business Development,
AirGo

Arash Jahangir is a strategic business leader and aviation innovator accelerating sustainable air mobility as Senior Vice President of Business Development at AirGo Design. With a career spanning advanced aerospace technologies, cabin innovation, and market strategy, Arash is driving the adoption of lightweight, modular seating and interior solutions tailored for the unique demands of eVTOL and urban air mobility platforms.

At AirGo, Arash leads global partnerships and business development efforts focused on transforming aircraft interiors to support higher efficiency, greater passenger comfort, and reduced environmental impact. His work enables eVTOL manufacturers and operators to optimize payload, performance, and scalability through cutting-edge lightweight cabin solutions.

Arash brings deep experience in international aerospace markets, having held leadership roles across both established OEMs and disruptive startups. His expertise spans product strategy, certification pathways, and customer engagement in the evolving landscape of advanced air mobility.

A passionate advocate for sustainable aviation, Arash works closely with industry stakeholders to align innovative cabin technologies with the operational and regulatory needs of next-generation electric aircraft.

Vice President,
EHang

Zhang Hong is a senior aviation executive and urban air mobility pioneer helping to redefine the future of transportation as Vice President at EHang. With extensive experience in aerospace systems, autonomous aviation, and international business development, Zhang plays a key leadership role in advancing EHang’s mission to make autonomous aerial vehicles (AAVs) a scalable and sustainable reality.

At EHang, Zhang oversees strategic initiatives and global partnerships that support the deployment of the company’s all-electric, fully autonomous air taxis. His work spans regulatory engagement, market expansion, and cross-border collaboration—critical to bringing certified eVTOL operations to urban centers worldwide.

Zhang has been instrumental in shaping EHang’s approach to safe, smart, and eco-friendly urban air mobility, supporting both passenger-carrying AAVs and aerial logistics platforms. His leadership contributes to the integration of UAM technologies into real-world transportation ecosystems, with a focus on autonomous operations, airspace coordination, and infrastructure readiness.

Founder & CTO,
AIR

Chen Rosen is a visionary aerospace technologist and electric aviation leader driving the future of personal air mobility as Chief Technology Officer at AIR. With a robust background in UAV systems, aeronautical engineering, and autonomous flight, Chen leads the development of AIR’s groundbreaking eVTOL aircraft designed for private ownership and everyday use.

At AIR, Chen spearheads the design, engineering, and testing of the AIR ONE—an all-electric, winged eVTOL aircraft that blends automotive-grade simplicity with aviation-grade safety. His work focuses on creating a highly accessible flying experience through intuitive controls, lightweight structures, and robust flight automation systems.

Chen brings over 20 years of experience in multidisciplinary aerospace projects, with deep expertise in propulsion integration, flight dynamics, and vehicle autonomy. His leadership is central to AIR’s mission of democratizing flight and enabling a new era of personal transportation powered by clean, electric vertical lift.

Director of Engineering,
Glenair

Mike Ghara is Director of Engineering at Glenair, where he leads the development of advanced interconnect technologies and mission-critical solutions for aerospace and defense applications. With more than two decades of engineering and leadership experience, Mike has built his career at the intersection of high-performance design, system integration, and customer-focused innovation.

At Glenair, Mike oversees a diverse portfolio of engineering programs that support both legacy and next-generation aircraft platforms. His work emphasizes reliability, scalability, and manufacturability—ensuring that Glenair’s solutions meet the demanding requirements of commercial aviation, military systems, and emerging electric and hybrid flight technologies.

A trusted partner to OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers, Mike has guided cross-functional teams through the challenges of product design, certification, and deployment in highly regulated environments. His leadership reflects a commitment to technical excellence and collaborative problem-solving, helping shape the future of interconnect systems in aerospace.

Mike’s participation in the eVTOL SHOW provides valuable perspective on how robust engineering practices and innovative interconnect solutions enable safe, efficient, and sustainable aircraft operations.

Battery R&D,
BETA Technologies

Yesaswi Chilamkurti is a leading battery systems engineer advancing the future of electric aviation through cutting-edge energy storage research at BETA Technologies. With deep expertise in electrochemical engineering, battery design, and cell development, Yesaswi plays a key role in creating high-performance battery systems tailored to the unique demands of eVTOL aircraft.

At BETA Technologies, Yesaswi focuses on the research and development of next-generation lithium-based batteries that meet the stringent requirements for safety, energy density, thermal management, and lifecycle durability in aviation environments. His work supports the company’s mission to deliver fully electric, sustainable aircraft powered by reliable and certifiable energy solutions.

Yesaswi’s background spans advanced cell architecture, materials science, and performance modeling—enabling data-driven innovation that bridges lab-scale breakthroughs and real-world flight applications. His contributions are instrumental in pushing the boundaries of what electric propulsion can achieve in terms of range, safety, and operational efficiency.

President NA and CSO,
LG Energy Solution

Robert H. Lee is a global energy leader and battery industry veteran shaping the future of electric mobility as President of North America and Chief Sales Officer at LG Energy Solution. With decades of experience across global markets, advanced energy storage, and strategic partnerships, Robert leads LG’s efforts to power the next generation of electric vehicles—including eVTOL aircraft—with high-performance, scalable battery technologies.

At LG Energy Solution, Robert oversees North American operations and global sales strategy, driving collaboration with key players in the automotive, aerospace, and mobility sectors. His leadership supports the development and deployment of advanced lithium-ion battery systems that meet the rigorous demands of electric aviation, from high energy density and safety to supply chain reliability and long-term sustainability.

Robert’s career spans senior roles in business development, engineering, and executive leadership within LG Group and the broader battery ecosystem. He is instrumental in expanding LG’s footprint in energy innovation—building partnerships that accelerate electrification across transportation verticals, including emerging eVTOL and AAM platforms.

Application Engineering Manager,
NEOGRAF Solutions

With over 15 years at NeoGraf Solutions and more than a decade of experience in thermal management for battery systems, Bret Trimmer is a recognized authority in solving one of the eVTOL industry’s most critical challenges: thermal runaway prevention. His work focuses on developing and applying advanced graphite-based heat spreaders and gaskets for batteries in eVTOL, eSTOL, electric airplanes, drones, and maritime vessels.

Bret’s current role as Applications Engineering Manager builds on a career spanning semiconductors, microelectronics, and EV battery innovation, including the launch of eight product lines, development of 100+ products, and five patents. His engineering solutions—such as eGraf® SpreaderShield™ and GraFoil® GTB gaskets—are designed to maximize battery performance while minimizing weight, space, and risk.

Bret brings a uniquely cross-sector perspective with hands-on experience navigating stringent safety standards across industries. His expertise enables him to speak with authority on how passive thermal solutions, like flexible graphite, can extend battery life, improve charging times, and mitigate the risk of thermal propagation in compact aerospace battery architectures.

As a speaker at eVTOL SHOW USA, Bret offers valuable insight into the practical implementation of lightweight, scalable, and proven thermal protection technologies—essential knowledge for designers, engineers, and integrators in the next wave of electric aviation.

Sr. Manager of Product Management,
TE Connectivity

Eric Weingartner is Senior Manager of Product Management at TE Connectivity, bringing over 22 years of aerospace industry experience in the design, development, and deployment of advanced power distribution technologies. His career spans hands-on engineering, global customer engagement, and product leadership, with a consistent focus on delivering reliable, high-performance solutions for both fixed- and rotary-wing aircraft.

Eric began his career designing AC and DC electromechanical contactors that remain in service across a wide range of aircraft platforms worldwide. He later advanced into technical sales and marketing, traveling extensively throughout North America, Europe, and Asia to support leading aerospace OEMs and operators. Today, he manages TE Connectivity’s portfolio of solid-state power controllers and high-voltage distribution assemblies for 270VDC+ applications, driving innovation in next-generation electrical power systems.

In his current role, Eric leads a global team of product managers united by the belief that “every connection counts.” His leadership and expertise help ensure that TE Connectivity solutions play a critical role in connecting the world to the electrical power that enables safe, efficient, and transformative flight experiences.

Eric’s participation in the eVTOL SHOW brings deep insight into the future of aircraft power distribution—where reliability, scalability, and advanced system integration are key enablers of the next generation of aviation.

Founder & CEO, MightyFly
Aerospace Engineer | Flight Controls Expert | Autonomous Logistics Pioneer

Manal Habib is a trailblazer in the future of autonomous aerial logistics. As Founder and CEO of MightyFly, she is leading the development of large-scale, autonomous eVTOL cargo aircraft capable of carrying up to 500 pounds over 600 miles, radically transforming middle-mile logistics for industries and governments alike.

With degrees from MIT and Stanford, and a background in flight control systems engineering, Manal previously led flight controls at Zipline, where she developed robust autonomous control systems that are now deployed across critical delivery networks in Africa. Her innovations enabled safe and reliable drone deliveries under challenging weather and terrain conditions.

A private pilot and aircraft builder, Manal is deeply embedded in aviation culture, coupling her passion with a systems-level engineering mindset. At MightyFly, she is pioneering high-endurance, high-payload eVTOLs that combine vertical takeoff capabilities with the range and speed of fixed-wing aircraft—setting new standards for scalable, autonomous logistics.

At eVTOL SHOW USA, Manal will share insights on commercializing autonomous cargo aircraft, addressing key design tradeoffs, certification strategies, and the critical role of autonomy in the future of regional and last-mile aerial supply chains.

CEO and Founder,
Skyportz

Strategy & Development,
UC Berkeley ITS

Justin Wiley is a forward-thinking transportation strategist shaping the integration of advanced air mobility into future cities through his work in Strategy & Development at the University of California, Berkeley’s Institute of Transportation Studies (ITS). With a multidisciplinary background in public policy, mobility innovation, and infrastructure planning, Justin is helping to bridge the gap between cutting-edge aviation technologies and real-world urban deployment.

At UC Berkeley ITS, Justin focuses on the strategic alignment of emerging transportation modes—such as eVTOLs and autonomous systems—with sustainable mobility goals, regulatory frameworks, and community needs. His work involves cross-sector collaboration with government agencies, research institutions, and private industry to explore how advanced air mobility (AAM) can be safely and equitably integrated into multimodal transportation networks.

Justin brings a wealth of experience in stakeholder engagement, policy analysis, and project development for next-generation infrastructure. His expertise lies in creating forward-looking strategies that connect technological innovation with planning, funding, and public trust—key elements in the successful rollout of eVTOL systems.

Business Development Manager – eVTOL & Hybrid-Electric Aviation, Amphenol

With a mission to shape the future of air mobility, David Amet blends deep operational expertise with a forward-thinking approach to urban and regional eVTOL integration. As Business Development Manager at Amphenol, David focuses on enabling next-generation hybrid and electric aircraft by advancing the electrical interconnect technologies and EMI protection critical to battery, propulsion, and control systems.

David’s leadership at Amphenol supports the acceleration of Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) infrastructure through smart, scalable solutions that meet the energy density, safety, and certification challenges of eVTOL aircraft. His work has emphasized the importance of electromagnetic compatibility (EMC), lightweight design, and resilience across high-voltage networks, ensuring performance and passenger safety in compact aerial systems.

With a 23-year career in the U.S. Navy as a Special Operator, David brings a unique perspective on mission-critical reliability, systems integration, and interoperability in complex environments. He applies these experiences to help drive cross-sector collaboration between aerospace OEMs, smart city planners, and component suppliers.

At eVTOL SHOW USA, David will share insights into commercializing high-performance eVTOL platforms—highlighting innovations in connectivity, SWaP optimization, and EMI shielding that are key to building a safe, sustainable air mobility ecosystem.

Chief Executive Officer,
Jaunt Air Mobility

Martin Peryea is a veteran aerospace engineer and executive with over 25 years of experience in aircraft design, certification, and engineering leadership, now serving as CEO of Jaunt Air Mobility, one of the sector’s most innovative eVTOL developers. A recognized industry Technical Fellow and accomplished VP of Engineering, Martin brings deep expertise in vertical flight technologies, systems integration, and lean production methods.

At Jaunt, Martin has led the development of the company’s Slowed Rotor Compound (SRC) technology, which blends the best of rotary and fixed-wing performance to deliver unmatched safety, efficiency, and ultra-low acoustic profiles—key enablers for public acceptance and urban deployment of eVTOL aircraft. Under his leadership, Jaunt is progressing toward certification of the Journey eVTOL, building strong partnerships across Tier 1 aerospace suppliers, regulatory bodies, and global operators.

Prior to Jaunt, Martin held leadership roles at Triumph Aerospace Structures, overseeing complex aerostructure programs for major commercial and military aircraft OEMs. His career reflects a rare combination of hands-on technical expertise and executive oversight, making him uniquely qualified to speak on topics such as airworthiness, scalable manufacturing, urban air mobility operations, and system-level safety design.

Martin’s participation in the eVTOL SHOW brings authoritative insight into what it takes to transition advanced aircraft concepts into certified, manufacturable, and market-ready platforms.

Director, Government and Community Relations,
Tampa International Airport

Gina Dew is a key public sector leader driving the future of advanced air mobility (AAM) at one of the nation’s most forward-thinking airports—Tampa International Airport (TPA). As Director of Government and Community Relations at the Hillsborough County Aviation Authority (HCAA), Gina plays a vital role in aligning city, state, and federal stakeholders to support eVTOL integration, airspace planning, and community engagement.

With more than a decade of leadership at TPA, Gina was instrumental in organizing Florida’s first crewed eVTOL test flight in partnership with Volocopter—also the first demonstration of its kind at a major U.S. airport. Under her guidance, Tampa International has launched strategic initiatives to explore UAM infrastructure, form regulatory partnerships, and plan for eVTOL service implementation as part of its Master Plan.

Her background in government affairs and transportation policy, including her prior role at Brewton-Plante, has made her an effective bridge between innovators, regulators, and local communities working to embrace sustainable urban aviation.

At the eVTOL SHOW, Gina brings practical insights on what it takes to prepare public airports for next-generation flight—offering a case study in infrastructure readiness, policy collaboration, and public acceptance.

Manager of Guidance, Navigation & Controls,
Pivotal Aero

Vivek Chugh is a highly experienced engineer specializing in guidance, navigation, and control (GNC) systems for next-generation electric aircraft. As Manager of GNC at Pivotal, he leads the development of flight control architectures that ensure stability, safety, and user-friendly operability for the company’s Helix eVTOL platform—a personal electric aircraft designed for recreational and future mobility applications.

With over nine years at Pivotal, Vivek has played a foundational role in advancing control system design, simulation modeling, and vehicle dynamics integration, supporting the company’s transition from early prototypes to scalable production aircraft. His work bridges the gap between aerospace-grade reliability and simplified user interaction, enabling new paradigms in single-pilot or autonomous urban flight.

Earlier in his career, Vivek supported structural and fatigue analysis for the Boeing 787 landing gear program at Safran (Messier-Bugatti-Dowty), further grounding his systems expertise in commercial aviation standards and mechanical integrity.

At the eVTOL SHOW, Vivek brings deep insight into the real-world implementation of GNC systems for personal and light-category eVTOLs, offering a critical perspective on flight performance, autonomy, and certification challenges.

Senior Director, Product Development and Commercialization, Coherent

Rob Murano is a seasoned photonics and semiconductor leader advancing the role of precision laser technology in electric aviation as Senior Director of Product Development and Commercialization at Coherent. With over two decades of experience spanning R&D, manufacturing, and go-to-market strategy, Rob drives innovation at the intersection of materials processing, advanced manufacturing, and aerospace applications.

At Coherent, Rob leads the development and commercialization of high-performance laser systems and photonic solutions that enable the fabrication of lightweight structures, battery components, and power electronics critical to eVTOL platforms. His work supports manufacturers in achieving higher precision, greater efficiency, and improved scalability in the production of next-generation electric aircraft.

Rob’s background includes leadership roles across photonics startups and global technology firms, where he has guided new technologies from lab to full-scale industrial deployment. He brings deep technical and strategic insight into how advanced laser processing can transform manufacturing in sectors demanding high reliability and performance.

Through close collaboration with aerospace and energy innovators, Rob is helping accelerate the adoption of photonics as a foundational enabler of advanced air mobility.

Vice President of Marketing,
Alakai Technologies

Hugh Kelly is the Vice President of Marketing at Alaka’i Technologies, a pioneer in hydrogen-powered electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. With over 20 years of experience in leading marketing strategy for cutting-edge technology companies, Hugh brings deep expertise in SaaS, enterprise software, and advanced mobility solutions, now applied to the rapidly evolving air transportation sector.

At Alaka’i, Hugh is helping shape the go-to-market strategy for Skai, the company’s hydrogen fuel cell-powered eVTOL platform that offers significantly greater range, faster turnaround times, and lower environmental impact than battery-powered alternatives. His leadership is helping position hydrogen propulsion as a viable and scalable path in the $115 billion advanced air mobility market.

Known for his strengths in market differentiation, demand generation, and data-driven storytelling, Hugh is helping to define how the benefits of hydrogen eVTOL systems are communicated to regulators, investors, operators, and the flying public.

Hugh will contribute his strategic insights to the Hydrogen Propulsion panel, focusing on the commercialization challenges, infrastructure needs, and market opportunities for fuel-cell-powered eVTOL platforms.

CTO and Technical Advisory Board Member,
LuftCar

Tiffany Nesbit is a seasoned aerospace and urban air mobility executive, currently serving as Chief Technology Officer and Technical Advisory Board Member at LuftCar, where she is advancing the development of hydrogen-powered autonomous eVTOL systems for urban and inter-city mobility.

With over two decades of leadership spanning Elbit Systems of America, Honeywell Aerospace, and key international roles in China, Tiffany brings an exceptional blend of technical depth, regulatory fluency, and strategic vision. She has led engineering transformations that more than doubled company revenues, scaled cross-functional teams from 150 to over 400 engineers, and built cutting-edge capabilities in AI, autonomy, and cybersecurity.

At LuftCar, Tiffany is guiding product development, investor engagement, and strategic technology roadmaps. Her work is instrumental in shaping the integration of hydrogen propulsion into next-generation eVTOL platforms, focusing on sustainability, operational range, and system-level efficiency.

Tiffany is a passionate advocate for innovation, diversity, and responsible aerospace growth. She will contribute deep insight on hydrogen-powered eVTOL systems to this year’s Hydrogen Propulsion Panel, sharing lessons from leading-edge system design and global engineering leadership.

Senior Consultant and Director of Operations,
Collinear Group

With over 35 years of aerospace experience, Aaron Koopman is a distinguished expert in certification, systems engineering, and compliance strategy, playing pivotal roles in some of aviation’s most innovative programs. As Senior Consultant and Director of Operations at Collinear Group, Aaron leads advanced advisory efforts supporting certification for next-generation aircraft—including emerging eVTOL platforms.

Aaron’s career includes a 12-year tenure at Boeing, where he contributed to groundbreaking projects such as ETOPS certification for the Boeing 777, and alternative means of compliance on high-security aircraft including Air Force One. He later served as Chief Operating Officer of Ramgen Power Systems, overseeing a $100M R&D program in aerospace-derived clean energy solutions and leading a multidisciplinary team of engineers and scientists.

Today, Aaron helps eVTOL developers navigate the evolving certification landscape, leveraging his expertise in requirements compliance, systems integration, risk mitigation, and FAA engagement. His unique combination of technical depth, program leadership, and real-world certification success makes him a key voice in accelerating safe and scalable urban air mobility.

Aaron holds a B.S. in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Washington and is known for bridging deep technical detail with regulatory execution at the highest level.

Aircraft Noise Abatement Manager,
San Francisco International Airport

Bert Ganoung brings over 25 years of experience in aircraft noise mitigation and airport-community relations, currently serving as Aircraft Noise Abatement Manager at San Francisco International Airport (SFO)—one of the first major U.S. airports preparing for commercial eVTOL operations.

A recognized expert in aviation environmental management, Bert leads SFO’s long-standing efforts to monitor, model, and reduce aircraft noise impacts through both technical and community-driven strategies. As the Bay Area moves toward launching eVTOL air taxi services by 2026, Bert plays a key role in helping align SFO’s infrastructure and airspace approach with the acoustic and operational characteristics of these new aircraft.

With deep experience in airport operations, policy compliance, and advanced noise abatement systems, Bert has become a critical voice in conversations around how eVTOLs can be integrated into major commercial aviation hubs while maintaining community acceptance and environmental performance.

At the eVTOL SHOW, Bert will provide valuable insight into real-world acoustic planning, stakeholder engagement, and infrastructure readiness from the perspective of one of the most forward-looking airports in North America.

Chief Strategy Officer, ANRA Technologies
Global Leader in Airspace Management, UAS & AAM Integration

Brent Klavon is Chief Strategy Officer at ANRA Technologies, a global leader in UAS Traffic Management (UTM), Urban Air Mobility (UAM), and vertiport operations software. Under his strategic leadership, ANRA has achieved several historic milestones, including being the first and only company to receive dual certifications from both EASA (USSP) and the FAA for UTM services—positioning it at the forefront of global airspace digitization for autonomous aircraft.

A former U.S. Navy pilot and seasoned aviation leader, Brent brings over three decades of military and commercial aviation experience. His career spans roles with the FAA UAS Test Site at Virginia Tech, the Florida State Emergency Response Team, and high-level command and strategy positions in the Department of Defense. At ANRA, he leads efforts to enable safe, scalable drone and eVTOL operations across complex global markets.

Brent’s deep understanding of air traffic systems, policy, and autonomous operations makes him an invaluable contributor to the evolution of Advanced Air Mobility infrastructure, from vertiport integration to dynamic airspace management. He is also a current board member of AgEagle Aerial Systems and serves on the Dock to Door Coalition, shaping policy and operational frameworks for the future of unmanned systems.

At The EVTOL SHOW USA, Brent will contribute expertise on integrating eVTOLs into shared airspace, regulatory harmonization, and how digital UTM services are the backbone of safe, efficient AAM deployment worldwide.

President, Ramco Systems Corporation
Global Head, Aviation, Aerospace & Defense

Manoj K. Singh is a dynamic aviation software leader and the driving force behind Ramco Systems Corporation’s transformation in the Americas, where he serves as President and Global Business Head for Aviation, Aerospace & Defense (AAD). With over two decades of innovation and execution across aerospace, aviation, automotive, and manufacturing, Manoj brings a bold vision to revolutionize Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) in the digital age—particularly for the rapidly evolving eVTOL and Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) sectors.

At Ramco, Manoj has led the charge in redefining aviation backend systems, integrating next-generation technologies like full mobility, real-time optimization, and connected MRO ecosystems. His mission: to replace legacy infrastructure with modern, intelligent, and scalable platforms that match the speed of innovation in the skies.

With a proven track record that includes doubling revenue and achieving 10x stock growth, Manoj is recognized for his thought leadership in supply chain optimization, advanced forecasting, and multi-echelon inventory strategies—all critical to ensuring safety, uptime, and profitability in eVTOL operations. He has played a key role in launching unified digital solutions that span engineering, maintenance, flight operations, quality, compliance, and finance.

Having previously held leadership roles at Infosys and i2 Technologies, Manoj brings not just technical insight but business transformation acumen, making him a sought-after speaker and advisor on scaling digital MRO for the next generation of electric aviation.

Head of Engineering,
Pivotal Aero

Soummya Datta is a seasoned engineering leader driving the advancement of personal and scalable electric aviation. As Head of Engineering at Pivotal, he leads the development of the company’s Helix eVTOL—one of the first consumer-available electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft, engineered for simplicity, safety, and everyday use.

With a diverse background across engineering and executive leadership, Soummya brings extensive hands-on experience in aerospace systems integration, program management, and scalable product development. Prior to Pivotal, he held engineering and technical leadership roles at Archer Aviation, where he managed early program execution for electric aircraft platforms, and served as Chief Technology Officer and COO at multiple mobility and robotics startups including Milano Technical Group and Future Acres.

Soummya is deeply engaged in the future of accessible, clean aviation and has guided teams through the challenges of prototyping, flight testing, and preparing aircraft for broader market deployment. His cross-functional expertise in both engineering execution and organizational scaling makes him a compelling voice in the evolving eVTOL ecosystem.

Technical Fellow & Global Engineering Leader, Aerospace, Defense & Marine,
TE Connectivity

Matthew McAlonis is one of the most recognized technical voices in advanced interconnect solutions for aerospace and defense applications. With more than 30 years of engineering leadership, he serves as Technical Fellow and Global Engineering Leader for TE Connectivity’s Aerospace, Defense & Marine business unit—where he has helped define rugged, high-reliability systems essential to electric aviation, including next-generation eVTOL platforms.

A named inventor on over 50 U.S. patents, Matthew is a Lean Design for Six Sigma Black Belt and a prolific technical contributor, having authored more than 10 published papers and industry presentations on topics such as high-speed embedded computing, VPX systems, ruggedized connectors, and signal integrity in flight-critical environments.

At TE Connectivity, Matthew leads innovation in high-voltage power distribution, avionics integration, and SWaP-optimized (Size, Weight, and Power) connectivity, with a special focus on enabling the unique electrical and environmental demands of urban air mobility and eVTOL aircraft. His team’s work supports everything from energy-efficient powertrains to flight control systems and cabin networks, delivering scalable electrical wiring interconnect systems (EWIS) solutions that enhance performance, reduce weight, and improve serviceability.

Matthew’s insights are instrumental in aligning next-gen aircraft design with military-grade reliability and commercial scalability, making him a key contributor to the future of electric flight.

Founder & CEO, VARON
Visionary in Virtual Air Mobility Infrastructure and Urban eVTOL Deployment

Felipe Varon is a trailblazer in the Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) space and the founder and CEO of VARON, a pioneering company delivering virtual mobility infrastructure for eVTOL transportation. Under his leadership, VARON is reimagining how cities and regions deploy eVTOL services—eliminating the need for costly infrastructure-per-mile by introducing point-to-point air mobility systems for logistics, tourism, medical services, and passenger transport.

With a bold vision to transform mobility through clean, fast, and efficient air services, Felipe’s approach offers a practical solution for urban congestion and infrastructure limitations in both developed and emerging markets. His work focuses on creating integrated AAM ecosystems that are ready to scale—without the burdens of traditional ground-based infrastructure development.

A frequent speaker and thought leader in the AAM field, Felipe is recognized for shaping the dialogue around decentralized vertiport networks, regulatory engagement, and real-world deployment strategies. His multidisciplinary background, entrepreneurial drive, and commitment to sustainability make him a key voice in the future of air mobility.

At The EVTOL SHOW USA, Felipe will share insights into scalable AAM business models, public-private collaboration, and how Latin America and other fast-growing regions can leapfrog transportation bottlenecks through eVTOL infrastructure innovation.

Deputy Vice President, Mission Support, FAA
Leader in Advanced Air Mobility Integration and National Airspace Modernization

Shawn Kozica is a veteran aviation executive with over 24 years of experience leading air traffic operations, strategy development, and innovation across the FAA, U.S. Air Force, and private sector. Currently serving as Deputy Vice President (A), Mission Support at the Federal Aviation Administration, Shawn plays a central role in guiding the modernization of the U.S. National Airspace System (NAS) and integrating emerging technologies—including Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) and Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS).

A key architect of the FAA’s AAM strategy, he leads coordination across 22 federal agencies via the AAM Interagency Working Group, ensuring safety, scalability, and alignment with national transportation goals. Shawn is also responsible for managing multi-hundred-million-dollar aviation portfolios, directing next-generation air traffic systems R&D, and shaping the capital investment roadmap for the future of flight.

His deep operational expertise, combined with his ability to bridge policy, innovation, and cross-agency collaboration, make him one of the most influential voices on how airspace modernization, regulatory readiness, and AAM deployment will unfold in the U.S.

At The EVTOL SHOW USA, Shawn will provide critical updates from the FAA, discuss how the agency is enabling safe and equitable access for eVTOL aircraft, and outline what manufacturers, operators, and infrastructure providers must align with to meet certification and integration timelines.

Chief Commercial Officer, Skyway
Expert in Vertiport Strategy, UATM Systems & Advanced Air Mobility Commercialization

Patrick Gould is a seasoned leader in airspace management, vertiport infrastructure, and commercial strategy for the rapidly evolving eVTOL and UAM sectors. As Chief Commercial Officer at Skyway, he plays a pivotal role in advancing Urban Air Traffic Management (UATM) and enabling scalable, automated airspace solutions for eVTOL operations.

With more than 25 years of experience in technical sales, systems marketing, and business development across startups and global corporations, Patrick brings a powerful mix of technology fluency, customer-centric strategy, and ground-level execution to the future of AAM.

At Skyway, he has been instrumental in leading vertiport traffic management initiatives, working with infrastructure stakeholders to ensure that next-generation vertiports are equipped with the navigation, simulation, and mission-planning capabilities necessary for safe, efficient eVTOL integration.

Patrick’s insights bridge regulatory, operational, and commercial realities—making him a critical voice in helping cities, airports, and OEMs navigate the emerging UATM and vertiport ecosystem.

At The EVTOL SHOW USA, Patrick will share actionable guidance on how vertiport networks, automated airspace services, and commercial strategy alignment can accelerate the viability of eVTOL operations at scale.

Vertiport & Infrastructure Partnerships Manager,
Wisk Aero
Expert in AAM Vertiport Design, Strategy & Community Integration

Torrie Meliska is a leading voice in Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) infrastructure, specializing in the end-to-end design, development, and deployment of vertiport systems. With a robust background spanning city planning, standards development, and regulatory engagement, she serves as the Vertiport & Infrastructure Partnerships Manager at Wisk Aero, where she shapes global AAM infrastructure strategies for one of the industry’s most prominent autonomous eVTOL developers.

Torrie brings over a decade of multidisciplinary experience across transportation engineering, product management, and business development. She has authored key sections of emerging vertiport standards, including those related to electric fast charging, lighting systems, and aircraft turnaround operations, while also consulting with airports, governments, and regulators on land-use planning for AAM.

Her analytical expertise is grounded in her academic research at Northwestern University, where she modeled urban vertiport placement using machine learning and travel behavior models. Torrie is a certified SAFe Agile Product Owner and known for driving cross-functional collaboration between engineering, policy, and urban development stakeholders.

At The EVTOL SHOW USA, Torrie will bring a community-focused, technically-grounded perspective on the integration of vertiports into cities and existing aviation systems—bridging strategy with practical execution for a new era of flight.

Sales Engineer,
Speedgoat

Joe Orlando is a seasoned engineer and control systems specialist helping to accelerate innovation in the eVTOL space as a Sales Engineer at Speedgoat. With deep expertise in real-time simulation, hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing, and model-based design, Joe enables aerospace developers to rapidly prototype and validate flight control systems with high-fidelity, real-time solutions.

At Speedgoat, Joe supports engineering teams working at the cutting edge of eVTOL and autonomous aviation—helping them integrate MATLAB® and Simulink® workflows with powerful real-time test hardware. His work empowers engineers to streamline development, reduce risk, and bring next-generation aircraft systems to life faster and more efficiently.

Prior to joining Speedgoat, Joe built his career at MathWorks, where he specialized in control system design and real-time testing workflows. He has collaborated with a wide range of aerospace and robotics teams to accelerate model-based development using Simulink and Speedgoat platforms.

Joe brings a unique blend of technical depth and hands-on experience in system modeling, embedded controls, and real-time verification. His work helps bridge the gap between simulation and flight—supporting the safe, scalable development of autonomous and electric aircraft.

Head of Autonomy & Airspace Integration, Wisk Aero
Pioneer in Autonomous Flight Systems for eVTOL

Jonathan Lovegren is a distinguished engineer and autonomy expert shaping the future of electric aviation as the Head of Autonomy & Airspace Integration at Wisk Aero. With more than a decade of hands-on experience across aerospace software, flight control systems, and dynamic simulations, Jonathan has led the design and testing of critical flight software for some of the most ambitious autonomous eVTOL programs in the world.

At Wisk, Jonathan is advancing autonomous flight and airspace management systems for the world’s first fully autonomous, all-electric air taxi. His leadership is helping to drive Wisk’s approach to safe, scalable autonomous operations in urban environments, with a focus on integration into national airspace systems.

Previously, Jonathan led flight software and simulation teams at A³ by Airbus, where he helped bring the Vahana eVTOL demonstrator to life, and at Airware, where he scaled drone autonomy platforms from prototype to enterprise applications. His technical roots span from Boeing’s A160T Hummingbird rotorcraft to early conceptual VTOL designs at Lockheed Martin’s Skunk Works.

A licensed pilot in airplanes, helicopters, and paragliders, Jonathan combines engineering depth with real-world aviation insight—delivering a unique perspective on what it takes to achieve safe, certified autonomous eVTOL operations.

He joins The EVTOL SHOW USA to share critical lessons in autonomy, airspace integration, and certification pathways for next-generation aircraft systems.

CEO & Founder, Doroni Aerospace
eVTOL Innovator | Urban Mobility Visionary | H1-X Architect

Doron Merdinger is the visionary founder and CEO of Doroni Aerospace, a trailblazing company reshaping personal and urban air mobility through sleek, accessible electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) vehicles. Since founding the company in 2017, Doron has led a bold engineering and design effort to bring multiple prototypes to life—culminating in the 2024 unveiling of the H1-X, Doroni’s flagship personal eVTOL.

With a clear vision to democratize flight by 2027, Doroni’s mission centers on creating safe, sustainable, and intuitive vehicles for everyday use. Under Doron’s leadership, the company is targeting a new era of personal aviation—combining form, function, and future-forward design to open the skies to the public.

At eVTOL SHOW USA, Doron will discuss scaling personal eVTOLs, addressing certification pathways, user-centric design, and how Doroni aims to define the next frontier of commuter freedom through air.

Enterprise Account Executive,
PTC

Max Schamel is a digital transformation leader enabling the future of aerospace innovation as an Enterprise Account Executive at PTC. With a strong background in industrial software solutions and a deep understanding of the unique challenges in the aerospace and defense sectors, Max helps eVTOL developers harness cutting-edge technologies to streamline design, engineering, and certification processes.

At PTC, Max works closely with leading electric aviation companies to implement advanced product lifecycle management (PLM), digital thread, and model-based systems engineering (MBSE) strategies. His focus is on empowering engineering teams to connect data, reduce complexity, and accelerate development cycles for next-generation aircraft systems.

Prior to joining PTC, Max held roles at Salesforce and Diligent Corporation, where he supported enterprise clients through complex digital initiatives. His cross-industry perspective and strategic mindset make him a trusted advisor to aerospace innovators navigating the shift toward digital-first development environments.

Max brings a unique ability to align enterprise software capabilities with the technical and regulatory demands of emerging aviation. His work is helping to lay the digital foundation for safer, faster, and more collaborative eVTOL development.

Senior Acoustical Engineer & Lab Manager,
Soundcoat

Tom Burns is a leading expert in acoustical engineering, helping to shape the future of quiet, community-friendly electric aviation as Senior Acoustical Engineer and Lab Manager at Soundcoat. With over a decade of hands-on experience in noise and vibration control, Tom specializes in developing advanced materials and testing methodologies that support the unique acoustic challenges of eVTOL aircraft.

At Soundcoat, Tom leads the design and validation of custom noise-reduction solutions for aerospace and defense applications, working closely with engineering teams to optimize cabin comfort, reduce environmental noise, and meet stringent regulatory requirements. His deep expertise in acoustical material science and lab-based testing ensures that emerging aircraft platforms can achieve both technical performance and public acceptance.

Tom’s work spans the full product lifecycle—from early-stage design consultation to prototyping and final product testing—helping OEMs integrate effective noise and vibration mitigation strategies from day one. His insights are vital to addressing one of the key barriers to urban air mobility: noise impact in densely populated environments.

CEO,
Vertiport Infrastructure Systems Corp 

Mike Di Cosola is a visionary entrepreneur and infrastructure pioneer driving the future of advanced air mobility as CEO of Vertiport Infrastructure Systems Corp. With a career spanning over 25 years in aviation, transportation, and smart infrastructure, Mike is at the forefront of developing the physical and digital backbone needed to support eVTOL operations at scale.

At Vertiport Infrastructure Systems Corp., Mike leads the design and deployment of next-generation vertiport solutions—integrating airside, landside, and digital systems to create safe, efficient, and scalable takeoff and landing hubs for electric aircraft. His work focuses on enabling seamless multimodal transportation by aligning vertiport development with urban planning, regulatory compliance, and advanced technologies.

Mike’s expertise is rooted in both public and private sector experience, having led aviation and infrastructure initiatives across airports, government agencies, and private enterprises. He brings a deep understanding of permitting, construction, public-private partnerships, and regulatory strategy—key factors in accelerating vertiport readiness across the U.S. and beyond.

A recognized thought leader in AAM infrastructure, Mike is helping shape policy and standards through active collaboration with government bodies, industry working groups, and international stakeholders.

Technical Simulation Specialist,
AVL

Michael Bambula is a simulation and modeling expert advancing the performance and safety of next-generation electric aircraft as a Technical Simulation Specialist at AVL. With deep expertise in multiphysics simulation, energy systems, and model-based development, Michael supports the eVTOL industry in designing, validating, and optimizing critical systems through high-fidelity virtual testing.

At AVL, Michael works with aerospace innovators to simulate complex interactions across propulsion, thermal management, battery systems, and overall aircraft performance—accelerating development while reducing physical prototyping costs. His work empowers engineering teams to make data-driven design decisions and meet demanding performance, efficiency, and safety targets.

Michael’s background includes hands-on experience in system simulation and controls for electrified powertrains, with a focus on integrating AVL’s cutting-edge toolchains into agile development workflows. His expertise spans both component- and system-level modeling, enabling holistic insight into how eVTOL aircraft behave under real-world conditions.

Through his work, Michael is helping bridge the gap between conceptual design and certification-ready performance, supporting the development of reliable, efficient, and sustainable electric aviation platforms.

Principal,
Barich

Samuel Ingalls is a respected aviation infrastructure expert advancing the integration of next-generation aircraft as a Principal at Barich, Inc. With decades of leadership in airport operations, innovation, and technology planning, Samuel plays a key role in helping stakeholders prepare the ground systems and policy frameworks required for eVTOL deployment.

At Barich, Samuel advises airports, agencies, and industry partners on how to align infrastructure, regulatory, and operational strategies to support the safe and scalable integration of advanced air mobility (AAM). His work focuses on bridging gaps between emerging aircraft technologies and the real-world complexities of airport environments.

Previously, Samuel served as Assistant Director of Aviation at Harry Reid International Airport (LAS), where he led transformative IT initiatives and collaborative efforts across federal, state, and industry partners. He has chaired key aviation committees, including the ACI-NA Business Information Technology Committee, and has been instrumental in shaping policy and standards for airport innovation.

With a career rooted in both strategic vision and operational execution, Samuel brings invaluable insights into the intersection of infrastructure readiness, stakeholder coordination, and the evolving needs of urban air mobility.

He joins The EVTOL SHOW USA to share guidance on airport modernization, vertiport planning, and the infrastructure policies essential for integrating eVTOLs into the national airspace and transportation ecosystem.

Senior Applications Engineer, Toray Advanced Composites
President, Peak Composites Inc.

With more than 35 years of experience in the design, development, and analysis of advanced composite structures, DeWayne Howell is one of the industry’s leading authorities on the application of thermoset and thermoplastic composites in aerospace and eVTOL engineering. At Toray Advanced Composites, he plays a central role in supporting OEMs like Overair with materials such as Toray’s T1100/3960 prepreg system, critical to achieving the stiffness, strength, and weight targets for next-generation eVTOL platforms like the Butterfly aircraft.

DeWayne is also the founder of Peak Composites Inc., where he pioneered CompositePro—a software platform now commercialized by Autodesk as Helius Composite, used globally for composite analysis and simulation. His extensive resume includes work with NASA Langley, Fiberforge, and ATK, as well as leadership in materials development and product engineering for both commercial and defense applications.

A long-standing contributor to industry education and best practice dissemination, DeWayne has authored over a dozen technical papers, led multiple SAMPE tutorials, and chaired technical symposia at CAMX and SAMPE. He is widely recognized for his ability to bridge theory and manufacturing, particularly in stamp forming, chopped fiber molding, and lightweight structural applications vital to electric aviation.

At the eVTOL SHOW USA, DeWayne brings unparalleled insights into composite material selection, manufacturing trade-offs, and airworthiness considerations, positioning him as a key voice in realizing scalable and certifiable airframe solutions for the eVTOL era.