| 2025 Speakers


Chief Growth and Infrastructure Officer,
Archer Aviation
As Chief Growth and Infrastructure Officer at Archer Aviation, Bryan Bernhard plays a pivotal role in shaping the real-world deployment of electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. With over three years leading growth strategy and infrastructure planning at one of the industry’s most advanced eVTOL developers, Bryan brings deep insight into the commercial, operational, and regulatory pathways necessary to scale urban air mobility.
At Archer, Bryan oversees critical initiatives that connect aircraft development with infrastructure readiness—from vertiport partnerships and city integration to ecosystem alliances and route planning. His work ensures that Archer’s eVTOL aircraft are not just technologically viable, but supported by a scalable, service-ready framework.
Bryan’s leadership is essential to navigating the intersection of aviation innovation and urban transportation networks, making him uniquely positioned to speak on topics such as eVTOL commercialization, airspace integration, public-private partnerships, and infrastructure investment strategies.
With a background in high-growth ventures and a focus on turning breakthrough technology into deployable systems, Bryan brings both strategic foresight and practical execution experience to the eVTOL SHOW.


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.


Head of U.S. State & Local Policy,
Joby Aviation
George Kivork brings over two decades of experience at the intersection of law, government affairs, and strategic communications, making him a leading voice in shaping public policy for emerging transportation technologies. As Head of U.S. State & Local Policy at Joby Aviation, George plays a pivotal role in defining how electric air taxi services integrate into urban and regional transportation ecosystems.
Prior to joining Joby, George held senior public policy roles at Lyft and served in key legal and advisory positions for the City of Los Angeles, including Associate Counsel and Press Secretary to Mayor Eric Garcetti. His leadership in advancing legislative strategies for major transportation hubs—such as LAX, the LA Port, and LA Metro—provides deep insight into how public-private partnerships can enable safe and scalable eVTOL operations.
George also served as an attorney in the Office of the General Counsel at the U.S. Department of Commerce, advising on trade and regulatory issues impacting U.S. industries. His unique combination of legal expertise and real-world policy implementation makes him particularly suited to address regulatory pathways, municipal integration, and public acceptance of advanced air mobility.
At the eVTOL SHOW, George brings a strategic and legal perspective on what it will take to turn innovative aircraft into accepted infrastructure, and how cities and states are preparing to regulate, enable, and adopt eVTOL services.


Chief Product Officer,
Joby Aviation
Dr. Eric Allison is one of the most influential figures in the advanced air mobility sector, currently serving as Chief Product Officer at Joby Aviation, where he leads the strategic development and commercialization of Joby’s all-electric, vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. With a career spanning more than 15 years at the forefront of urban air mobility, Eric brings deep expertise in product development, aerospace systems engineering, and real-world flight application strategy.
Before joining Joby, Eric led Uber Elevate, where he helped define the global vision for urban air transportation and forged foundational partnerships across the ecosystem. Prior to that, he served as CEO of Zee.Aero, a pioneering electric aviation startup, where he directed the development of early eVTOL prototypes.
Eric’s background includes years of experience in engineering leadership, having served on the NASA Advisory Council Aeronautics Committee, and contributing to cutting-edge aircraft design and optimization at companies like Desktop Aeronautics. His unique blend of technical insight, commercial vision, and regulatory awareness makes him a critical voice in shaping the path to scalable, certified, and integrated eVTOL operations.
At the eVTOL SHOW, Eric will offer a systems-level perspective on what it takes to deliver everyday electric flight—from engineering and certification to infrastructure and public acceptance.


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.


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.


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.


Program Manager,
Piasecki Aircraft Corp
With over three decades of experience in aerospace program leadership, currently serves as Program Manager at Piasecki Aircraft Corporation (PiAC)—a legacy innovator in advanced rotorcraft technologies and a growing force in the development of next-generation manned and unmanned vertical flight systems, including eVTOL platforms.
At Piasecki, John leads cutting-edge projects focused on the rapid prototyping, testing, and integration of novel VTOL configurations for both defense and civilian markets. His/her expertise lies in managing complex, multi-phase programs from early conceptualization through manufacturing and testing, aligning technical execution with evolving mission requirements and customer expectations.
Previously, John served as Vice President of Programs at Applied Concepts Group and spent over 25 years at Boeing, where he/she held senior program management roles across multiple aerospace platforms—gaining deep knowledge of aircraft lifecycles, certification pathways, and product delivery under strict regulatory and time-to-market constraints.
John brings to the eVTOL SHOW an unparalleled perspective on system integration, program execution, and flight readiness in VTOL technologies—offering lessons from both the traditional aerospace world and today’s fast-moving eVTOL landscape.


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.


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.


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.


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.


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.


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.


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.


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.


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.


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.


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.


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.


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.


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.


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.


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.


Michael
Bambula 

Technical Simulation Specialist,
AVL


Niklas
Volbers 

Director Advanced Research,
VAC Magnetics, LLC
If you would like to join the 2024 speaker faculty, we’d love to hear for you contact us