New board will guide the group’s advocacy on behalf of the NGSO satellite industry

August 6, 2026 (Washington, D.C.) – Today, the SpaceConnect Association announced the election of its inaugural Board of Directors, bringing together leaders from across the satellite communications ecosystem to help guide the organization's mission of advancing policies that enable innovation, investment, and expanded connectivity through next-generation satellite networks.

The inaugural Board consists of:

● Chair: Ashleigh de la Torre, Vice President of Public Policy at Amazon
● Secretary: Michael Schwartz, Senior Vice President, Corporate and Business at Telesat
● Treasurer: Barbee Ponder IV, General Counsel and Vice President of Regulatory Affairs at Globalstar

The Board will help guide SpaceConnect's priorities as the association engages policymakers, regulators, and international institutions on issues affecting the future of satellite communications. Executive Director David Redl and General Counsel Julie Kearney will continue to lead the association's day-to-day operations and advocacy efforts.

“The NGSO satellite industry is entering a defining period. LEO satellite systems are transforming how people connect, how businesses operate, and how governments deliver critical services,” said Board Chair Ashleigh de la Torre. “As policymakers engage with this technology, SpaceConnect will serve as a trusted, unified voice for our industry. I'm honored to chair this exceptional Board as we work together to advance policies to ensure that we realize the full potential of LEO satellite technology.”

“We launched SpaceConnect to give the NGSO satellite industry a strong, unified voice at a pivotal moment for global connectivity,” said Redl. “Our Board of Directors does just that, bringing together exceptional leaders with deep experience and a shared commitment to our industry. I look forward to working with this great group to advocate for smart policies that will deliver the benefits of satellite communications to communities around the world.”

Since launching in June this year, SpaceConnect has advocated for policies that support the growth, innovation, and responsible deployment of NGSO satellite systems. As governments around the world make critical decisions affecting satellite communications— including preparations for the 2027 World Radiocommunication Conference (WRC-27) —SpaceConnect will continue serving as a unified voice for the NGSO industry. For more information, visit spaceconnectassociation.org.

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SpaceConnect is the leading global trade association representing non-geostationarysatellite systems (NGSOs). SpaceConnect works to ensure a competitive, multi-providermarket that delivers for governments, businesses and consumers.