SPACE IN 60

Podcast: SPACE IN 60 Episode: AWAIS AHMED | Pixxel - Hyperspectral Leadership in Earth Observation Tune in to this episode of the SPACE IN 60 podcast, hosted by Clint Graumann and Chad Baker! who invite guests to discuss all things space-related. Today’s special guest is Awais Ahmed, CEO of Pixxel and a young leader in the space industry today. His company, Pixxel, is on a mission to build a health monitor for the planet through a constellation of cutting edge hyperspectral small satellites. Like many other kids, Awais loved learning about space growing up. Growing up in a small town, his dream was to have access to telescopes and other tools to explore space. In college, he was given an outlet for his fascination and worked on the engineering aspects of what it takes to build software used in space exploration. Previously, Awais was a founding member of Hyperloop India, a finalist at the SpaceX Hyperloop Pod Competition in 2017. After this experience, he knew he wanted to work in space as his life’s career. Awais explains that much of Pixxel’s success has been due to the function of the times and the rising interest in space exploration thanks to companies like SpaceX. Sitting in his dorm room in India, he was able to reach out to people across the globe for advice and connections. However, it took quite a bit of time to raise the money needed to start the company. Many of the connections they have made as a company have been thanks to the work they do, rather than the other way around. Awais has found the industry to be very open to collaboration and support for a new company like his own. Then, Awais points out the two types of technologies countries will need moving forward: indiginous technologies and collaboration with other countries to reach our full potential of space exploration. Finally, he offers advice for listeners just coming out of university with ambitions similar to his own. First and foremost, he urges us to explore as many things as possible during this time to discover our true passions. Then, don’t hesitate to get started. Things may get tough, but as long as you can see the light at the end of the tunnel, it will all be worth it. Additionally, Awais’s humility and vision both say a lot in terms of his success. Please like, share with your friends, and subscribe so you don’t miss an episode! Links: Connect with Awais Ahmed and learn more about Pixxel. Connect with Clint Graumann on LinkedIn and Twitter. Connect with Chad Baker on LinkedIn Learn more about SPACE IN 60 and connect on LinkedIn or Twitter.