Michael VanWoerkom

Michael VanWoerkom is the founder and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of ExoTerra Resource, a company he established in 2011.12 Here are some key details about his background and career:

Professional Experience

ExoTerra Resource:

• Founded the company in February 2011 with the goal of reducing the cost of space exploration through innovative space infrastructure systems.12
• Grew the company from 8 engineers to over 40 specialists in various fields such as system design, mechanical design, stress analysis, electrical propulsion, mission analysis, and thermal protection systems.12

Lockheed Martin Space Systems Company:

• Worked for 14 years (July 1997 - February 2011) in various engineering roles.2
• Started as a structural designer on the Atlas V and progressed to more senior positions.2
• Served as the Crew Module Structures, Mechanisms, and Ordnance manager for the Orion project, leading a team of up to 170 individuals.2

Education

• Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Calvin College (1991-1995)2
• Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Michigan (1995-1997)2
• MBA in Entrepreneurship from the University of Colorado at Denver (1998-2002)2

Achievements and Recognition

• Received numerous performance awards at Lockheed Martin, including 4 team excellence awards and the Nova award for team excellence.2
• Finalist for an individual National Stellar award and part of the Stellar Award-winning Pad Abort Team.2

ExoTerra Resource Focus

Under VanWoerkom's leadership, ExoTerra Resource specializes in:

• Developing and optimizing solar electric propulsion systems4
• Creating the Courier system and Halo thruster4
• Working on various NASA, Air Force, and commercial contracts related to solar electric propulsion and in-situ resource utilization4

VanWoerkom's expertise and vision have driven ExoTerra Resource to become a significant player in the aerospace industry, focusing on reducing the cost of gravity and enabling space exploration and commercialization.35