Awarded to Robin McNeill MNZM, founder and Chief Executive Officer – Space Operations (SpaceOps) New Zealand Ltd.

Robin has designed and built ground stations in Antarctica, Tokelau and Southland.

He has played a critical role in deepening New Zealand’s space relationship with the European Space Agency. This relationship has also included scholarships and other benefits to Southland students, one of which was the Kepler Space Camp for 70 local students.

SpaceOps New Zealand also continues to collaborate with Great South’s “Youth Futures” programme. From 2008-2013 the programme helped double the number of students completing Year 13 physics in Invercargill.

Robin supervises post-graduate students undertaking space research and SpaceOps New Zealand employs undergraduate engineering students in summer jobs.

Through SpaceOps New Zealand, Robin has been responsible for growing a pipeline of engineers and employees who have the necessary skills and experience to deliver future impact.

 

 

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