Jason
O’Neill 
Chief Operating Officer, Horizon Aircraft
Jason is Chief Operating Officer at Horizon Aircraft and brings extensive experience leading mission-critical systems and complex technology programs that enable secure, reliable, and scalable operations. He has managed multi-million-dollar initiatives across the healthcare, smart city, and air transportation sectors, delivering solutions in highly regulated environments. With expertise spanning corporate strategy, fundraising, cross-border mergers and acquisitions, and operational growth, Jason plays a key role in driving organizational performance and navigating the strategic and regulatory challenges associated with scaling advanced aerospace technologies.
Dave
Amet
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.
George
Karayannis
Segment Leader, Public Sector,
Schneider Electric
George Karayannis is a strategic energy and infrastructure leader driving the electrification of public systems as Segment Leader, Public Sector at Schneider Electric. With extensive experience in energy management, smart infrastructure, and large-scale public projects, George works at the intersection of policy, technology, and implementation—helping prepare cities and government agencies for the demands of next-generation mobility, including eVTOL and advanced air mobility (AAM).
At Schneider Electric, George leads initiatives that modernize public infrastructure through resilient power systems, grid integration, microgrids, and digital energy management platforms. His work is critical to enabling vertiport electrification, high-capacity charging networks, and sustainable energy strategies that support safe and scalable electric aviation operations.
George brings a strong background in stakeholder collaboration, public-private partnerships, and infrastructure funding strategies. He works closely with municipalities, transportation authorities, and energy providers to align sustainability goals with deployable, future-ready solutions—ensuring that emerging mobility systems can integrate seamlessly into existing urban ecosystems.
Dave
Evans
CEO,
Fictiv Inc.
Dave Evans is a manufacturing technology entrepreneur transforming how aerospace hardware is built as CEO and Co-Founder of Fictiv Inc. With a background in engineering, product development, and digital supply chain innovation, Dave leads Fictiv’s mission to streamline sourcing and production for complex mechanical components—supporting the rapid evolution of the eVTOL and advanced air mobility industry.
At Fictiv, Dave has built a global digital manufacturing platform that connects aerospace innovators with vetted production partners for precision machining, injection molding, and advanced manufacturing services. His work enables eVTOL developers to accelerate prototyping, scale production, and manage supply chain risk through data-driven visibility and agile sourcing strategies.
Prior to founding Fictiv, Dave held engineering and leadership roles at Ford Motor Company and Zoox, where he gained firsthand experience in vehicle development and the challenges of scaling next-generation mobility technologies. His cross-sector expertise bridges automotive-grade production principles with aerospace-level quality and traceability requirements.
David
Bushi
Senior Vice President of Manufacturing, USA Rare Earth
David Bushi leads USAR’s manufacturing operations at the Stillwater, Oklahoma sintered magnet production facility. He has more than 25 years of large-scale manufacturing experience and previously served as Vice President of Manufacturing for CoorsTek, a ceramics manufacturer in Golden, Colorado — experience directly applicable to the sintering, pressing, and thermal processing involved in permanent magnet production.
Bushi has a strong record of success heading high-volume manufacturing operations across the automotive, defense, and aerospace industries. He holds an MBA from Wayne State University and a BS in Electrical Engineering from Kettering University.
Jared
W. Perdue
P.E., State Secretary, Florida Department of Transportation
Jared W. Perdue, P.E. is a transportation leader and licensed professional engineer guiding one of the nation’s most forward-looking mobility agencies as Secretary of the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT). With extensive experience in transportation planning, infrastructure delivery, and public policy, Jared is leading Florida’s efforts to integrate emerging mobility technologies—including advanced air mobility (AAM) and eVTOL operations—into the state’s transportation network.
As Secretary of FDOT, Jared oversees one of the largest transportation systems in the United States, directing strategic investments across highways, aviation, rail, ports, and intelligent transportation infrastructure. Under his leadership, FDOT is advancing initiatives that support the development of vertiports, multimodal connectivity, and the policies needed to safely integrate electric aircraft into Florida’s rapidly growing mobility ecosystem.
Throughout his career at FDOT, Jared has held numerous engineering and executive leadership roles, building expertise in infrastructure planning, project delivery, and interagency collaboration. His practical understanding of both engineering and public administration has positioned Florida as a national leader in preparing for the commercial deployment of advanced air mobility.
Will
N. Watts, Jr.
P.E., COO/Assistant Secretary, Florida Department of Transportation
Will N. Watts, Jr., P.E. is a transportation infrastructure leader helping to shape the future of mobility as Chief Operating Officer and Assistant Secretary at the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT). With decades of experience in engineering, operations, and large-scale transportation program delivery, Will oversees the execution of statewide initiatives that enhance connectivity, safety, and readiness for emerging technologies such as advanced air mobility (AAM).
As COO and Assistant Secretary, Will is responsible for coordinating FDOT’s operational strategy across Florida’s extensive multimodal transportation network, including highways, aviation, rail, ports, and transit systems. His leadership supports the integration of innovative infrastructure, intelligent transportation systems, and planning initiatives that will enable the safe and scalable deployment of eVTOL aircraft and vertiport networks.
A licensed Professional Engineer, Will has built his career within FDOT, holding senior leadership positions across engineering, construction, and transportation operations. His expertise in infrastructure delivery, stakeholder collaboration, and strategic planning has helped position Florida as a national leader in embracing next-generation transportation solutions.
Stephan
Krause
New Business Development Director, Q5D Technologies Limited
Stephan Krause is an advanced manufacturing specialist helping to accelerate the industrialization of electric aviation as New Business Development Director at Q5D Technologies. With extensive experience in aerospace manufacturing, automation, and strategic business development, Stephan works with OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers to introduce innovative production technologies that improve efficiency, quality, and scalability.
At Q5D Technologies, Stephan leads business development initiatives focused on the company’s robotic wire integration and additive manufacturing solutions. By enabling electrical wiring to be printed and embedded directly onto complex three-dimensional components, his work helps eVTOL manufacturers reduce aircraft weight, simplify assembly, improve production consistency, and accelerate the transition from prototype development to high-rate manufacturing.
Stephan brings decades of experience supporting advanced manufacturing across the aerospace, automotive, and industrial sectors. His expertise lies in connecting emerging production technologies with real-world manufacturing challenges, helping engineering teams adopt more efficient and flexible processes while maintaining the high standards required for aerospace certification.
Jeremy
Livingstone
VP of Sales, Samsung SDI
Jeremy Livingstone is a global energy storage executive helping to accelerate the future of electric aviation as Vice President of Sales at Samsung SDI. With extensive experience in advanced battery technologies, strategic partnerships, and business development, JJ works with leading OEMs to deliver high-performance energy storage solutions that support the demanding requirements of next-generation eVTOL aircraft.
At Samsung SDI, JJ leads sales and customer engagement initiatives across emerging mobility sectors, supporting the adoption of advanced lithium-ion battery technologies that deliver the energy density, reliability, and safety essential for electric flight. His work focuses on building long-term partnerships that enable aerospace manufacturers to scale production while meeting rigorous performance and certification standards.
Throughout his career, JJ has built deep expertise in battery commercialization, electrification strategies, and global supply chain collaboration. By working closely with innovators across transportation and advanced manufacturing, he helps bridge the gap between cutting-edge battery technology and real-world deployment, supporting the continued evolution of sustainable aviation.
Brett
Oakleaf
Strategic Partnership Manager, National Laboratory of the Rockies
Brett Oakleaf is a clean energy and strategic partnerships leader advancing the future of sustainable transportation as Strategic Partnership Manager at the National Laboratory of the Rockies. With extensive experience in technology commercialization, cross-sector collaboration, and innovation ecosystems, Brett works to connect industry, government, and research organizations in accelerating the adoption of next-generation energy solutions for advanced air mobility.
In his role, Brett develops strategic partnerships that bring together aerospace manufacturers, utilities, infrastructure providers, and public agencies to address the energy challenges associated with eVTOL operations. His work focuses on enabling collaboration around charging infrastructure, grid integration, renewable energy, and resilient power systems that will support the commercialization of electric aviation.
Drawing on a strong background in clean technology deployment and partnership development, Brett helps translate emerging research into practical, scalable solutions. His expertise spans public-private collaboration, technology demonstration programs, and the strategic initiatives required to accelerate innovation across the mobility sector.
Peter
Blume
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.
Bret
Trimmer
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.
Aaron
Koopman
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.
Steven
Ohanesian
Director of Business Development,
Infineon Technologies
Steven Ohanesian is a semiconductor industry expert and strategic growth leader accelerating the future of electric aviation as Director of Business Development at Infineon Technologies. With a strong background in power electronics, system integration, and automotive-grade technologies, Steven helps eVTOL manufacturers harness cutting-edge semiconductor solutions to drive performance, efficiency, and safety in next-generation aircraft.
At Infineon, Steven leads business development initiatives across the advanced air mobility sector, supporting the adoption of high-reliability power modules, wide-bandgap semiconductors, and embedded control systems tailored for the demanding requirements of electric flight. His work enables OEMs and system integrators to meet key challenges in power density, thermal management, and system safety.
Steven brings deep expertise in aligning technical innovation with market needs, having worked across electric vehicles, aerospace, and industrial applications. His role at Infineon bridges engineering and commercial strategy—helping partners implement scalable, certifiable solutions based on proven semiconductor technologies.
If you would like to join the 2025 speaker faculty, we’d love to hear for you contact us