Speakers

 Jeffrey D. Grant was sector vice president and general manager of Space Systems at Northrop Grumman Aerospace Systems, from 2011-2018, a provider of manned and unmanned aircraft, space systems and advanced technologies critical to our nation’s security.  In this role, Grant led the division which provided space solutions for civil, military and restricted customers. 

Prior to this appointment, Grant was vice president of National Systems for Space Systems. His primary responsibilities were the acquisition and execution of all space programs for restricted customers, which includes the design, build, launch and operations of major systems. He also was responsible for new business with these customers as well as the evolution of existing systems, including capabilities enhancements and technology insertion. 
Grant also served previously as the vice president of Business Development at Northrop Grumman’s former Space Technology sector. In that role, he led the business development function, overseeing Space Technology’s strategy formulation, program development, marketing and discretionary investment. 

Grant joined Northrop Grumman via the acquisition of TRW in December 2002. Prior to his joining TRW in February 2002, he held a variety of government and private sector positions. Most recently, he was vice president and chief technical officer for Astrolink International, LLC. Astrolink was an international joint venture to develop and operate a global, broadband telecommunications satellite system. 

Before joining the private sector, Grant served for 21 years at the United States Central Intelligence Agency in positions at the CIA/National Reconnaissance Office (NRO), Directorate of Science and Technology, and Directorate of Intelligence, Office of Scientific Intelligence. In his most recent assignment at the NRO, he served as director, Office of Plans and Analysis. During his 18 years at the NRO, Grant also served as a program director for a satellite, launch and ground segment development. In addition, he was the chief systems engineer on two space intelligence collection projects involving spacecraft in both geosynchronous and low earth orbits. Grant also led an advanced technology division to develop and test advanced imagery, communication and data processing technologies. 
Grant received a Bachelor of Science in ocean engineering from the Florida Institute of Technology. He is the recipient of numerous awards, including the CIA’s Distinguished Intelligence Medal, the CIA’s Intelligence Medal of Merit, the CIA’s Engineer of the Year, and recognized as an NRO Pioneer in June 2023. Grant currently serves as the Chairman of the Board of Directors for the Space Foundation, the Board of Trustees at the Aerospace Corporation and the Board of Directors at the Anser Corporation. 

Dr. Ravi Brahmbhatt is an experienced servant leader, bringing a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his role as a higher education administrator and faculty member. He is deeply committed to delivering proven entrepreneurship and innovation programs that create viable economic opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs and small business owners. With a tech, media, food, and digital entrepreneurship background, Ravi has seamlessly transitioned into education and continues to make a significant impact.

As a passionate change driver and problem solver, Ravi remains actively engaged in Texas's startup and entrepreneurial community. His dedication to fostering innovation and supporting aspiring entrepreneurs is evident in his various leadership roles. Currently serving as the Director of Student Innovation and Entrepreneurship at Houston Community College, Ravi has co-authored and led the development of workforce degree plans and certifications focused on innovation and entrepreneurship. His outstanding programs have garnered national and regional recognition, earning him prestigious awards.

Ravi's commitment to education and entrepreneurship extends beyond his role at HCC. He serves as the Education Chair for TiE Houston, a global organization that fosters entrepreneurship. Additionally, he holds a leadership position in TiE University's leadership team, further amplifying his impact on a global scale. He is a Board Advisor to the Houston Regional Veteran Chamber of Commerce and Innovation Spark - Local STEM Education non-profit. Ravi actively mentors businesses through organizations like SCORE, UH SURE and EforAll, providing valuable guidance and support to emerging entrepreneurs.

Recognized for his expertise and contributions, Ravi serves on multiple regional and international boards dedicated to fostering entrepreneurship and driving economic growth. Through these positions, he leverages his knowledge and networks to create an environment that nurtures entrepreneurial talent and promotes innovation.

Willy was born in Belgium. He has been CEO of 6 Billion dollar International Industrial Manufacturing Technology companies and 4 Technology (non IT) startups in ten different industries. He has five Masters (Master in Electronics and Semiconductors, Master in Nuclear Science Technology and Radioprotection, Master in Finances, Business and Administration, Master in International Sales, Marketing and Business Development, and a Master in Industrial Manufacturing Process Optimization). He has spoken 8.5 languages during his career, lived in five countries, and worked for twenty thousand people as a servant leader and has had manufacturing plants and service centers in over 186 countries around the world. His nickname is Mr. International.

He created more than $ 100 Million dollars of shareholder value per year for every large organization he has run as a leader. He has been the chairman of the Belgian Chamber of Commerce of Texas and the Southwest, the Chairman of the Mayor of Houston International Trade and Development Council, a founding member of the World Chamber of Commerce of Texas and the Chairman of SCORE. He has been married for 45 year, and they live in the USA for more than 30 years and in Houston for 20 years They have 3 children and 9 grandchildren. He is now a CSO or Chief Spoiling Officer.