OUR WORK

Uplift Aerospace delivers world-class astronaut training and space research programs that support technology commercialization and human spaceflight innovation.

Through our commercial astronaut and research missions, we work closely with K–12 education programs to provide immersive workforce development and career-connected learning opportunities for students.

Our recent initiatives include:

Training our first class of commercial astronauts, with our first astronaut scheduled to fly on an upcoming Blue Origin mission
Advancing human adaptation studies through VR-based astronaut training
Supporting university-led research in space science, materials, and human performance
Expanding access to space education through Starborn Academy — the largest VR-based STEM program in Utah

Uplift partners with NASA, Blue Origin, Orbital Reef, the University of Arizona, the University of Wisconsin, the University of Central Florida, and other leading organizations to connect education, research, and commercialization across Earth and space.

We recently trained our first commercial astronaut class, and have contracted to send our first astronaut on an upcoming Blue Origin mission.

Collaborate With Us

Management

Josh Hanes
President & CEO

CEO Josh Hanes is an accomplished executive with experience managing multimillion-dollar equity funds and large-scale real estate investments. As former COO of Reef Life Foundation, he oversaw major reef restoration projects in the Caribbean. A graduate in Physics from the University of Utah, Hanes began his career developing advanced propulsion concepts with Dr. Steve Howe. His combined expertise in finance, operations, and space technology positions Uplift Aerospace as a leader in the industry’s next frontier.

Meet The Team

Mark McLaughlin
Board Member & Advisor to the CEO

Mark McLaughlin is a veteran executive with extensive experience leading companies in the health and biotech sectors. He is currently CEO of Immudyne Nutritional and previously served as President and CEO of Immudyne, Inc. (now LifeMD, Inc.). Since 2021, he has advised Uplift Aerospace’s CEO and Board, bringing strategic insight and executive leadership to support the company’s growth and commercialization efforts.

Matt Sharpe
Director of AI Development

Matt Sharp is a seasoned AI and data engineering leader, and brings deep expertise in deploying, managing, and scaling machine learning and generative AI systems in production. Known as a “Data Pioneer,” Sharp has led successful AI initiatives across startups and large technology companies, building robust ecosystems that drive innovation and adoption across organizations.

Emily Higgins
Director of Communications & Special Projects

Emily Higgins is the Director of Communications and Special Projects for Uplift Aerospace, and is currently leading program development for Starborn Academy. With a background in STEM education and a Masters degree in Visual Communications, Higgins specializes specifically in immersive storytelling through impactful visual media (film, photography, graphics). She is passionate about combining art and information to create deeper connections with subject matter, spark curiosity, and foster the next generation of explorers and innovators.

Shane Smit
Senior VR/AI Developer

Shane Smit is a veteran software engineer with over 33 years of experience, including contributions to 20+ commercial games across console, PC, mobile, and VR. He has worked with major studios such as Disney Interactive and specializes in AI, physics, multiplayer systems, and custom tools. Shane co-founded the Entertainment Arts & Engineering master’s program at the University of Utah and later led data engineering and machine learning efforts at MX Technologies. His deep passion for game technology and culture fuels his work at Uplift Aerospace.

Siem Sium
VR Developer

Siem Sium is a software engineer with expertise in Unity, AI-driven tools, and immersive VR/AR experiences. As Chief Product Officer at Solace Vision, he led the development of a no-code AI assistant for Unity that generates 3D environments from natural language input. His work bridges technology and storytelling, with published research recognized by IEEE and JAMA Network. Siem is also active in transmedia and eSports, supporting STEM education and creator-focused initiatives.

Kerri Hanes
Program Manager

Kerri Hanes is an experienced program manager with a background in recreational therapy, specializing in group dynamics and experiential program design. She is passionate about creating impactful learning environments that foster connection, personal growth, and a strong sense of community. At Uplift Aerospace, Kerri leads the development and coordination of educational programs, applying a hands-on, people-centered approach to ensure every initiative supports workforce development and student engagement. Her creativity and commitment to meaningful experiences help bring Uplift’s mission to life.

Jeffrey Johnson
Board Member

Jeffrey Johnson is a seasoned executive with over 15 years of experience in operations, government relations, and contract negotiation. He holds a Master’s in Public Administration from the University of Utah and has led procurement and performance oversight for major government agencies. At Uplift Aerospace, he helps guide the company’s strategic growth and cross-sector collaboration, including partnerships with NASA, Blue Origin, and others.

Eric Willeitner
Board Member & Research Director

Director of Engineering Eric Willeitner is a mechanical engineer with experience developing aerospace systems for military, commercial, and space applications. He earned his BS in Mechanical Engineering from Utah State University and led test systems engineering at RAM Company, improving project success through coordinated testing and manufacturing. At Uplift Aerospace, Eric applies his expertise to advance initiatives like the Constellation Vault, Suborbital Triptych, and Moon Cast.

Dr. Sian Proctor
SpaceX Inspiration4 Astronaut & Artist

Dr. Proctor is a geoscientist, explorer, space artist, and astronaut. She is the mission pilot for the Inspiration4 all-civilian orbital mission to space. She is also one of The Explorer’s Club 50: Fifty People Changing the World. Her motto is called Space2inspire where she encourages people to use their unique, one-of-a-kind strengths, and passion to inspire those within their reach and beyond. She believes that we need to actively strive for a J.E.D.I. space: a just, equitable, diverse, and inclusive space as we advance human spaceflight. She uses her afrofuturism space art to encourage conversations about women of color in the space industry. She believes that when we solve for space, we also solve issues on Earth.

Advisors

Dr. José Hernández
Retired NASA Astronaut

Hernández is a distinguished former NASA astronaut and engineer who participated in the STS-128 Space Shuttle mission. As part of the crew, Hernández spent an extended period in space, contributing to our knowledge of the universe and broadening our understanding of space travel. His passion for education is evident in his dedication to fostering academic excellence and shaping future leaders. On his post-NASA journey, Hernández is recognized for his dedication to using his experiences to inspire young minds, reinforcing the notion that the sky is not the limit. A seasoned astronaut and a profound educator, Hernández continues to contribute to our understanding of space and our role within it, while enriching the academic landscape here on Earth.

Nicole Stott
Retired NASA Astronaut

Stott is a retired NASA astronaut and engineer who flew with missions STS-128, Expedition 20, Expedition 21, STS-129, and STS-133. Stott lived and worked as a crewmember on both the International Space Station and the Space Shuttle for 104 days - where a personal highlight was painting the first watercolor in space. Stott is now author of her first book “Back to Earth: What Life In Space Taught Me About Our Home Planet – And Our Mission To Protect It”. On her post-NASA mission, she is a co-founder of the Space for Art Foundation — uniting a planetary community of children through the awe and wonder of space exploration and the healing power of art. Stott creatively combines her spaceflight experience with her artwork to inspire everyone’s appreciation of our role as crewmates here on Spaceship Earth.

Shiva Lynn Burgos
Advisor: Space+ Art Program

Shiva Lynn Burgos is a contemporary artist and photographer from New York, USA currently living and working between Paris, London and Papua New Guinea. Compelled by remote landscapes and communities Burgos creates interventions often collaborating with the local population (traditional peoples of Papua New Guinea, Saharan Berbers, Bali Hindus, USA subcultures). Her diverse contemporary, conceptual and collaborative practice positions itself within the unifying concepts of evolution, competition, natural and social selection. Her practice encompasses photography, film, installation, 360 VR, sculpture, painting, drawing, and performance.

Ruben Salinas
Advisor: Business

A serial entrepreneur, philanthropist, and executive adviser who has turned personal trials into opportunities that have benefited people worldwide. Ruben is not just a successful entrepreneur; he’s a seasoned leader who knows how to guide businesses toward spectacular growth and success. In 2014, he founded Parsagen Diagnostics, which was acquired by Qiagen (QGEN) in 2018. Prior to that, he was a driving force behind AmniSure International’s success, another company acquired by Qiagen (QGEN) in 2012.

Mike Mongo
Advisor: Astronaut Teacher

Mike Mongo, fondly referred to as the Neil Armstrong of our generation by The Atlantic, is an engaging author, educator, and astronaut teacher with an enduring passion for space exploration. His work in space education and advocacy has earned him features in prestigious publications like Forbes and Scientific American, as well as on the TEDx stage.