Eric Kolte, Aerospace Executive and 40-Year Industry Veteran, Joins Titans Space as Chief Development Officer
Neal Lachman
???? | ???? | CEO & Chief of Spacecraft Design | TitansSpace.com | Investor | Selene Mission | Crewed Mars Mission:2032 | Nuclear Propulsion | Normalizing Space Tourism | Spaceplanes | Space Stations
August 19, 2024 – Oklahoma City, OK – Titans Space Development Corporation (TSDC) and Titans Space Industries are proud to announce the appointment of Eric Kolte as Chief Development Officer (CDO). With nearly four decades of experience in the aerospace industry, Eric brings a wealth of knowledge and leadership to Titans Space, bolstering the company’s mission to push the boundaries of space technology and travel.?
Eric’s illustrious career spans key roles in aerospace, satellite, spacecraft, and launch vehicle projects. He has been instrumental in managing large-scale operations, driving innovation, and achieving significant milestones in both commercial and government programs. His expertise in manufacturing, product development, and quality assurance, combined with his strategic vision, positions him perfectly to lead TSI’s development initiatives as the company continues to expand its influence in the space sector.?
As Chief Development Officer (CDO) at Titans Space Industries and affiliated companies, Eric will be crucial in driving growth and innovation. His responsibilities would include leading strategic technology initiatives, securing new business and international collaboration opportunities, overseeing product and technology development, and managing large-scale projects.
Eric will also focus on building high-performing teams across all affiliated projects and companies, ensuring quality and compliance, managing financial aspects of development projects, expanding into new markets, engaging with stakeholders, and spearheading research and development efforts. Overall, Eric would be responsible for advancing the company’s vision while maintaining excellence in quality, compliance, and financial performance. Eric will work in close relationships with other C-levels and report directly to CEO Neal Lachman.
A Legacy of Leadership and Innovation?
Eric Kolte’s journey in the aerospace industry is marked by numerous achievements. Most recently, he served as a Senior Manufacturing Production and Quality Engineer at Blue Origin, where he was also the Chairperson of the Executive Committee for the Space Coast Consortium Apprenticeship Program (SCCAP), a White House STEM initiative under Vice President Kamala Harris. His leadership in this role, particularly on the Space Coast in Florida, demonstrated his commitment to advancing STEM education and workforce development in the aerospace sector. ?
Before joining Blue Origin, Eric held several high-impact positions, including Consulting Senior Program Manager at Collins Aerospace and Interim President & CEO of Mynaric’s U.S. division. At Mynaric, he was instrumental in establishing the company’s laser communication terminal manufacturing facility, securing contracts with the U.S. Air Force, and achieving a 40% profit margin.?
At Alliance Spacesystems, Eric successfully implemented a new ERP/MRP software planning package, enhancing production efficiency and on-time performance. His tenure at ACP saw him leading a team that grew product lines by 300% and gross profits by 400% within two years, working on projects like SpaceX Falcon-9 and Google Loon.?
Eric’s career also includes pivotal roles at ATK Space Systems and SSL, where he managed complex manufacturing operations, including propulsion systems, antenna towers, and satellite integration. His expertise in Six Sigma, Lean Manufacturing, and Quality Management has consistently resulted in operational excellence and financial performance improvements.?
Leadership Statements?
Neal Lachman, CEO and Chief of Spacecraft Design: “Eric’s appointment as CDO is a significant milestone for our companies and projects. His vast experience in managing complex aerospace projects and his track record of innovation will be invaluable as we enter our next phase of growth. Eric’s leadership will help us continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible in space technologies.”?
Dr. Christopher Shove, Chief Strategy Officer: “Eric’s strategic technological insights and deep understanding of the aerospace industry will play a crucial role in guiding Titans Space’s long-term vision. His ability to navigate both the technical and business aspects of development makes him an ideal fit for our team.”?
Doug Kohl, Chief Operating Officer: “We are thrilled to have Eric join our executive team. His experience in scaling operations and improving efficiency aligns perfectly with our goals at Titans Space. I've known Eric for many years and look forward to working closely with him to drive operational excellence across our projects.”?
Franklin Ratliff, Chief Technology Officer: “Eric’s technical acumen and leadership in product development are second to none. His experience in cutting-edge aerospace technologies will be a tremendous asset as we continue to innovate and expand our technological capabilities.”?
Gregory Nemitz, Chief Projects Officer: “Eric’s extensive background and leadership in the aerospace industry are impressive. I’m confident that his contributions will greatly enhance our efforts to achieve TSI’s ambitious goals. We’re excited to have him on board as we continue to work on innovative and groundbreaking technologies.”?
Eric Kolte, Chief Development Officer: “I am excited to join Titans Space at such a pivotal time in the company’s journey. The team’s passion for innovation and excellence is truly inspiring, and I look forward to contributing to our shared vision of advancing space transport, travel, tourism, and technology. Together, we will achieve great things.”?
For inquiries, please contact Marcus Beaufort , Director of Communications and Business Strategy.
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About Titans Space Industries
TSI is dedicated to making space tourism a reality for a wider audience. With its commitment to safety, affordability, and accessibility, TSI is leading the charge in democratizing access to the wonders of space.
To learn more about TSI and its groundbreaking space tourism program, visit https://titansspace.com/titans-space-tourism/.
About the Founding Team
TSI was founded by a group of partners with a combined 550 years of business experience, representing investor interests in Titans Universe/TSI. They worked together on numerous projects for a combined 200+ years.
The founding team includes a 28-year-veteran space entrepreneur and satellite broadband pioneer, a PE fund manager who raised more than $6 billion in capital, a 40+ year rocketry and aerodynamics veteran, a 40+ year Space entrepreneur and activist, a Hall-of-Fame NBA basketball legend, a former Head of Business Development at Apple, a multi-billion-dollar business strategist, a former MD of KPMG NYC who advised on 100+ PE and M&A transactions, and the former CFO of a Formula One racing team and public listed companies.
Our Founding CEO, Neal S. Lachman is a serial entrepreneur with 35 years of investment, business, space, technology, and telecom experience. In 1992, he picked up the phone and started communicating with companies like PanAmSat. He has been a space entrepreneur since 1994/1995 when he and two of his brothers applied for and received three international digital satellite broadcast licenses.
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3 个月One more feather ??
Sr. Mechanical Engineer at MAXAR Technologies (formerly Space Systems Loral)
3 个月Congratulations Eric!!! Wishing you Goodluck.
Dir. Mission Management at MOMENTUS
3 个月Congratulations Eric! Experience matters!!
Artist - StarMuralist - SEAEO - Nature Cinematographer & Photographer - Stars4Sleep - Art That Puts You To Sleep Naturally
3 个月Congratulations to Eric, and the entire Titans Exec. Team!