John Conafay: CEO and Co-Founder of Integrate, Innovating Space Systems and Managing the Future

In this episode, Ben sits down with John Conafay, a US Air Force Veteran and the CEO & Co-Founder of Integrate, a company that’s revolutionising space mission management through cutting-edge software solutions. With a wealth of experience from his time at Spire, Astranis, SpaceFlight, and ABL Space Systems, John shares insights into the challenges and opportunities of the new space economy. They delve into the innovations driving the industry forward, including transforming space mission planning from 2D to 3D logistics, and how software can solve critical issues like launch capacity management. They also discuss the broader implications of these advancements for the future of space exploration and the ethical considerations involved. Tune in for a deep dive into the world of space tech and the exciting future it holds.

OUTLINE:

Here’s approximate timestamps for the episode.

00:00 Intro to episode

01:18 Integrate

06:51 Optimising systems

08:57 2D to 3D - what does it mean?

10:12 Previous pain points at previous companies

13:26 Growth into other sectors

15:45 Spaceforce & Firefly

17:45 “Nice to have” digital tools

20:40 Adoption of software

22:34 Other tech in space industry

22:52 Future of Integrate

25:30 Pain of entrepreneurship

28:00 Advice to aspiring space being a space tech entrepreneur 

30:13 What sparked your interest in space?

32:04 Wrap up and socials

Connect with John Conafay:

Website: https://integrate.space/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/conafay/

X: https://twitter.com/jconafay

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