Innovation Center

Rob is the Executive Director of the Inspired 24 Innovation Center. His interest in space exploration began at age 8 (and he has the journal entry to prove it). In college, he participated in research for a future Getaway Special experiment that flew on STS-95 in 1998. As a founding member of The Inspired 24, he initiated the Innovation Center to help people from all walks of life with a passion for space to contribute innovation and research to the space community.

Kent is the Operations Director in the role of creating an environment where all teams and positions in the Innovation Center can thrive. Kent is currently spearheading a software concept code-named GND with the team to identify and accelerate technology revolutions, starting with Space Settlement. Kent has been active in the Mars Society for over two decades and is their steering committee chair. He is a veteran of MDRS Mars Analog crews 32 and was commander of Crew 124. He has won three awards for space mission design - most recently a $20K grand prize from NASA for a lunar polar rover concept in late 2024. His space settlement design portfolio and a primer on being a Mars age inventor are on his web site, MacroInvent.com. He is also the designer of EVA-Link, was recently mentioned in articles from CNBC and Wired Magazine with respect to MDRS and Meshtastic, respectively.

Ethan is an Inspired 24 Innovator. A skilled tradesperson with roots in automotive craftsmanship, he bridges technical expertise and creative problem-solving through his passion for STEAM applications. Holding multiple certifications from Meridian Technology Center and a patent for infrastructure management software, he is developing the SpaceForTrades.org initiative while pursuing an associate degree in Applied Technologies. His professional experience spans web development, wireless networking, and mechanical drafting, complemented by volunteer work in scientific programs like the analog astronaut conference and Oklahoma Blue Thumb water quality monitoring. With a commitment to integrating tradespeople into space exploration, he continues to push the boundaries of technical innovation and community engagement.

 KC is an Aerospace Engineer with a wealth of technical expertise in propulsion systems, thermal analysis, and systems integration for advanced aerospace applications. She has contributed to projects involving Rocket-Based Combined Cycle (RBCC) propulsion, Rocket engines, thermal protection system design, and high-performance spacecraft materials. Jyoti's technical prowess is a testament to her dedication to developing cutting-edge aerospace systems. 

Lucas is an Inspired 24 Innovator. His fascination with space is not rooted in a single event or defining moment; instead, it arises from a profound passion for the possibilities that exist beyond our planet. He is captivated by the vision of a future where cities are thoughtfully designed, outdated concepts are left behind, and humanity embarks on journeys to distant worlds. The prospect of witnessing the dawn of a new era, one that extends beyond his own lifetime, fuels Lucas's excitement for the exploration of space.