Team
Team
BETA Directors and Advisors
Mouse over a portrait for more information.Dr. Martine Rothblatt
DirectorFounder of Sirius XM radio and United Therapeutics. Progressive technologist and green energy advocate. Helicopter, fixed wing and seaplane pilot.
Dean Kamen
DirectorFounder of DEKA research and FIRST Robotics for kids, inventor of the iBot wheelchair and numerous successful products. Helicopter, fixed wing pilot.
Chuck Davis
Chair, DirectorCEO of Stone Point Capital, Board member of Progressive Insurance.
Dr. David Churchill
CTO, DirectorMechanical Design and data integration expert. Former Boeing researcher and VP of engineering for Lord Microstrain. Private Pilot.
Kyle Clark
Founder/CEO/DirectorLead engineer and founder. Former director of engineering at Dynapower, Applied Math degree from Harvard University. Test Pilot, CPL, eVTOL, helicopter, fixed wing.
John Abele
DirectorFounder of Boston Scientific. Author and non-linear thinker focused on making the world a better place. Pilot.
Chris Timchak
AdvisorPrincipal at Stone Point Capital, Chief Investment Officer of CIT Bank, N.A., and part of the team that created, managed, and sold OneWest Bank. History of science and comparative study of religion degrees from Harvard University. Board Advisor.
Eric Hirshberg
AdvisorEric Hirshberg is a multi-industry business and creative leader. He is the former CEO of ACTIVISION where he delivered 8 years of explosive growth and innovation. Before that he was the CEO/Chief Creative Officer of Deutsch which was named Agency of the Year (Adweek/AdAge) 6 times during Eric’s tenure. He is now an early-stage investor/advisor for world-positive companies. He sits on the Boards of the XPrize Foundation and UCLA’s School of Arts and Architecture. He is also an accomplished singer/songwriter.
Will Roper
DirectorCEO of Volansi. Former Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Acquisition, Technology and Logistics. In this role, he led all research, development, procurement, and logistics for both the U.S. Air Force and Space Force: an annual budget totaling $60 billion. But he is best known for accelerating acquisition timelines and fostering disruptive innovation inside of government.
Mike Stone
DirectorMike Stone is Founder of FS Investors. He serves as CIO of Rise & Rise Climate Funds, a $14B global impact investment group and as Co-MP of TPG Growth, a $15B private equity fund manager. Mike serves on various boards at Duke University, Rady Children’s Hospital, & Scripps Institute. He is Chairman of the Board of Wilderness Safaris & Element Markets. He serves on the Library of Congress’ Madison Council & Harvard’s Cmte on University Resources.
BETA Directors and Advisors
Mouse over a portrait for more information.Dr. Martine Rothblatt
DirectorFounder of Sirius XM radio and United Therapeutics. Progressive technologist and green energy advocate. Helicopter, fixed wing and seaplane pilot.
Dean Kamen
DirectorFounder of DEKA research and FIRST Robotics for kids, inventor of the iBot wheelchair and numerous successful products. Helicopter, fixed wing pilot.
Chuck Davis
Chair, DirectorCEO of Stone Point Capital, Board member of Progressive Insurance.
Dr. David Churchill
CTO, DirectorMechanical Design and data integration expert. Former Boeing researcher and VP of engineering for Lord Microstrain. Private Pilot.
Kyle Clark
Founder/CEO/DirectorLead engineer and founder. Former director of engineering at Dynapower, Applied Math degree from Harvard University. Test Pilot, CPL, eVTOL, helicopter, fixed wing.
John Abele
DirectorFounder of Boston Scientific. Author and non-linear thinker focused on making the world a better place. Pilot.
Chris Timchak
AdvisorPrincipal at Stone Point Capital, Chief Investment Officer of CIT Bank, N.A., and part of the team that created, managed, and sold OneWest Bank. History of science and comparative study of religion degrees from Harvard University. Board Advisor.
Eric Hirshberg
AdvisorEric Hirshberg is a multi-industry business and creative leader. He is the former CEO of ACTIVISION where he delivered 8 years of explosive growth and innovation. Before that he was the CEO/Chief Creative Officer of Deutsch which was named Agency of the Year (Adweek/AdAge) 6 times during Eric’s tenure. He is now an early-stage investor/advisor for world-positive companies. He sits on the Boards of the XPrize Foundation and UCLA’s School of Arts and Architecture. He is also an accomplished singer/songwriter.
Will Roper
DirectorCEO of Volansi. Former Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Acquisition, Technology and Logistics. In this role, he led all research, development, procurement, and logistics for both the U.S. Air Force and Space Force: an annual budget totaling $60 billion. But he is best known for accelerating acquisition timelines and fostering disruptive innovation inside of government.
Mike Stone
DirectorMike Stone is Founder of FS Investors. He serves as CIO of Rise & Rise Climate Funds, a $14B global impact investment group and as Co-MP of TPG Growth, a $15B private equity fund manager. Mike serves on various boards at Duke University, Rady Children’s Hospital, & Scripps Institute. He is Chairman of the Board of Wilderness Safaris & Element Markets. He serves on the Library of Congress’ Madison Council & Harvard’s Cmte on University Resources.
Our Team
Natalie Sweeney
Nat makes films… and breakfast sandwiches and regular trips down dirt roads with her slinky dog Kota. Nat makes it a point to fish streams for brookies even though she’d rather catch big rainbows. She prefers sleeping outside and getting humbled by the stars. She believes BETA has the coolest mission under the stars right now.
Ajay Bharadwaj
I hold a bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering from Bengaluru, India. With over a decade of Aerospace experience as Manufacturing Engineer, I’m beyond stoked to begin my new journey with BETA in the pursuit to wanna make the world a better place. In my leisure time, I either jam solo with my acoustic guitar or with my 2 little kids who think their daddy is the greatest rockstar. I love going on long motorcycle rides with my lovely wife.
Jeff Tobrocke
Jeff joined BETA after 33 years as a public school teacher and administrator, bringing with him vast experience in design, technology and engineering. Jeff has four adult children whom regularly enjoy his home renovation talents. In the summer, Jeff is sailing Lake Champlain and winter finds him seeking powder in the backcountry.
Christopher Pyatak
Chris has spent most of his career in manufacturing here in Vermont. He was production manager for eight years at a specialty coffee company and more recently was head of operations at a leading high-end glass manufacturer. At a young age he became fascinated with airplanes while listening to his grandfather tell stories of flying from aircraft carriers in WWII, sparking a lifelong passion for aviation. His other interests include fly fishing, electronic music composition, reading, and having adventures with his wife and kids.
Luciano Martinez Stefanini
Mechanical Engineer with emphasis in thermo fluids. Passionate for electrification of transportation and aircrafts. Experience in icing protection, thermal management and environmental control systems
Marcela de Melo Anicezio
I am passionate about aviation and all the challenges technological advances bring us. As an experienced aircraft certification specialist, I am thrilled to contribute to Beta Technologies.
Jackie Yan
Jackie is passionate about leveraging technology to better the world and making technology accessible to all. Jackie has an MBA from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business and, prior to Beta, was a Vice President in Media and Communications Investment Banking at Morgan Stanley. Though a recent transplant to Vermont from New York City, she already feels at home in Burlington with her husband and their mini poodle.
Think you'd fit in here?
CareersParker Sexton
Parker Sexton is passionate about making things, 3D printing, and perfecting embedded systems. His computer engineering degree is from NC State, where he developed a passion for collaboration and innovation. He is thrilled to do applied work in an innovative company at the bleeding edge of a profound technology.
Thomas Thorne
I am a native North Carolinian who enjoys outdoor adventures with my wife and dogs from the mountains to the coast. I received my B.S. in Biomedical Engineering and M.S. in Mechanical Engineering from North Carolina State University and have spent 12+ years working in medical device embedded software development. I look forward to diving into my first love of aviation with Beta Technologies. During my spare time, I enjoy hiking, fly fishing, surf fishing, kayaking, whitewater rafting, outdoor cooking, gardening, camping, and volunteer firefighting/EMS.
Yassine Elmzoudi
I am originally from Morocco and moved to Iowa in 2001. Even before receiving my Electrical Engineering degree from the University of Iowa, I began my experience in the aerospace domain by securing an electrical engineer co-op position with Collins. Since then, all of my jobs have been with different aerospace companies as an embedded software engineer. I love outdoor activities and watching Premier League soccer; I am a big fan of the Liverpool team.
Zachary Heibel
Commercial Pilot- SEL/MEL, Commercial Pilot- HelicopterZach spent the last seven years flying AH-64 Apaches for the Army and after a short stint in corporate fixed wing aviation has returned to helicopters to teach others as a CFI. When he’s not flying he enjoys cooking and gardening with his wife, Daisy.
Graham Hulvey
Graham is a member of the FCC Airborne Software team. He lives in Raleigh, NC but grew up in Shelburne, VT. He graduated from NC State University with a bachelors in Biomedical Engineering and a masters in Computer Engineering. He has a passion for snowboarding, hiking, and everything outdoors.
Shauna Awad
Shauna is a New Jersey native and alumna of Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. She relocated to Cary, NC after graduating and worked on testing electric vehicle applications at Ford before joining the Beta team. With a passion for software test engineering and sustainable technology, she is dedicated to advancing both fields. Outside of work, Shauna enjoys photographing birds, spending time with her cats, reading non-fiction, and attending hot yoga classes.
David Fleissner
Before BETA I spent nine years as an Electronics Engineer working on 6-axis force/torque sensors and industrial tool changers. I have a BS degree in Electrical and Computer Engineering and an MS in Electrical Engineering from North Carolina State University. Today I work on BETA’s airborne embedded software.
Matthew Butler
Solving and creating are my core drivers. Aviation and technology are the outlets to express those drivers. My family keeps me grounded and fulfilled and my kids fill me with joy. Flying airplanes, Lego building, blacksmithing, woodworking, music, ice skating, skiing, and game modding are my hobbies.
Nicholas Pecora
Nicholas hails from Myrtle Beach and has a deep passion for golf, sports, music, and overall well-being. With extensive experience managing hotel networks for over 80 properties and running an independent IT business for 8 years, Nicholas has built a reputation for exceptional service in the local community. They are eager to bring their expertise and enthusiasm to their new role, ready to contribute effectively from day one.
Casey Irivn
ERAU (Prescott) Alumni, 20 year System Safety Engineer.
Cheyenne Phillips
With a passion and never-ending hunger for knowledge, I’m down to take on any challenge. Growing up flying Lockwood Drifters ignited my love and appreciation for aviation and has me stoked to earn my pilots license! I’ve always said I know I can do some pretty amazing things, but with the right team I know we can do extraordinary things and that’s why I’m here! When I’m not traveling for work or leisure with my Wife and Daughter, in true KC native fashion you can catch me outside smoking all sorts of food challenging my culinary thinking, and engaging in any adrenaline-producing hobbies.
Rick Florence
I have worked both military and commercial aircraft development programs including the Presidential helicopter replacement program, HondaJet, Gulfstream G500/600 and the Icon A5. I thoroughly enjoy working at startups and was last at Wisk Aero. My background in configuration management spans several decades. Having eight brothers has provided ample motivation to be an individual separate from the crowd while also being a team player. I look forward to contributing to the success of Beta. When not at work I enjoy gardening, hiking, cooking and spending time with my wife, Rosemary; my 3 daughters and 2 granddaughters as well as my 4-year-old chocolate lab, Stout.
Saahil Batra
Saahil Batra is a Battery Manufacturing Process Engineer at BETA Technologies. With seven years of diverse manufacturing experience, including roles at Rivian and Alstom, he brings a strong foundation in process optimization to the team. Holding a Master’s in Industrial Engineering from Texas A&M University, Saahil is eager to apply his skills to the challenges and opportunities of battery production. He is passionate about contributing to BETA’s mission of sustainable aviation.
Andrew Billings
Born in Vermont, grew up in NY, and eventually came back to my forever home of Vermont. Nearly 10 years in the Aerospace industry in various roles of Inspection and Test. Primary focus the last 6+ years has been Environmental/Dynamic testing. Lives with wife Jaskia, son Owen, and daughter Elsie. Currently when not working trying to keep up with the kids. Super excited to be working on the future of aviation here at Beta!
David Gelwan
Dave has worked in the aerospace industry for almost 10 years- both at a large corporation and at a small startup company. He has extensive experience in modeling & simulation, multidisciplinary design optimization, and control system development. Outside of work, he enjoys hiking, skiing, traveling, and listening to podcasts.
Molly Pepper
I am a native Vermonter who absolutely loves to be outdoors exploring the beauty of our state with my dog and loyal sidekick, Arya. After graduating from Champlain College, I began my career in the finance industry where I discovered my passion for working with numbers. I am so excited to be a part of the Beta team as an Accounts Payable Specialist and being part of the future of flight!
Ryan Verschoore
Configuration Management and Release. I am proud to join Beta with over a decade in the aeronautical manufacturing industry. Prior to coming to work on Beta’s electric aircraft, I supported various defense and proprietary projects. My education was completed at Purdue and Washington University-St Louis. I think of configuration management as a component of systems engineering that allows for the efficient synthesis of changes to all aspects of aircraft production. I am excited to bring my knowledge and drive to help the Beta team!
Ryan Spurney
Ryan is originally from Wilmington, North Carolina, and graduated from NC State University with degrees in Computer and Electrical Engineering. His background is in developing code for FDA-compliant medical devices and he’s excited to bring that experience to the world of electric aviation. When he’s not at work, you’ll find him skiing, golfing, watching F1, or at a hockey game (go Canes!).
Ryan Garrand
Vermont native tradesperson, and tech enthusiast with a deep-rooted love for the outdoors. If I’m not working you can find me on the trails or the water
Dean Corkum
I am a lifetime Vermonter. I had an idyllic childhood growing up in Woodstock where we rode bikes everywhere and played outside all day long. I went to the University of Vermont where I graduated with a degree in Physical Education. I spent 34 of my 36 years teaching at Essex High School. There are a number of Hornet alums that I am looking forward to working alongside. I live in Essex with my wife Lucy. We have two kids. Madison, a 5th grade math teacher in Williston and Grady who works here at BETA.
Keaton Osborne
Keaton is a native Vermonter and enjoys spending as much time as possbile outside. He has three years experience in metal manufacturing. His hobbies include hunting, fishing and historical reenactment.
Elliot Lipman
Elliot graduated with a BS in aerospace engineering with minors in sustainability and computer science from the University of Illinois. During this time, he conducted research with the university’s Center for Sustainable Aviation, analyzing the carbon impact of fuel selection in commercial aircraft. Though born and raised in New York City, he feels at home surrounded by the mountains and greenery of Vermont
Derek Rice
Derek is a graduate of St. Michael’s College. He has been welding and building for 14 years. From sculptures to camper conversions, motorcycles and beyond, he’s always tinkering. When not in the shop, Derek can be found on stage DJing or playing with one of several local groups.
Rodrigo Lopes Rose
Born and raised in southern Brazil, Rodrigo came to the U.S. to pursue a degree in aerospace engineering at Georgia Tech. He then obtained his master’s in aeronautics and astronautics from MIT with a focus on system safety. He is passionate about making flying safer, more efficient, and more sustainable by taking a systems approach to solving problems. Outside of work, you’ll find him out taking pictures of landscapes and wildlife, or at the nearest trivia contest.
Jared Williams
Jared was an engineer and leader on the team that took the worlds largest and most powerful rocket from initial concepts through successful orbital flight. He’s experienced in R&D, manufacturing, performance testing and operations. A 9th generation Vermonter, he takes pride in the state and it’s people. He’s happiest in the mountains and believes in human-nature symbiosis.
Cailean Sorce
I Grew up in Vermont, and have always enjoyed the simplicity of older machinery. I am passionate about improving older technology with modern advancements, while still maintaining simplicity and reliability.
Reid Randolph
Hi, I’m Reid. I’m from Westchester, New York and am currently a history major at Middlebury College with minors in architecture and computer science. I am passionate about any and all things aerospace and am excited to be a business operations intern at BETA. Some of my hobbies include watching my favorite sports teams and fly fishing.
Colin Grund
Colin is currently pursuing their masters in electrical engineering at the University of Vermont with a focus in autonomy. They are a part of their schools FSAE electric team. When not working they are passionate about the outdoors and can be found hiking or rollerblading.
Simon Flaherty
I am a student at UVM studying Business Analytics with a minor in Mandarin Chinese. I love hiking, mountain biking, snowboarding, and other outdoor adventures. I have a chocolate lab as my adventure buddy, and he loves to join me in all these activities too! I am passionate about aviation, and am excited to be a part of the team to further Beta’s mission!
Zachary Abood-Bieber
Zach is an ME Graduate from UVM who when not working with the team enjoys spending time rowing, snowboarding, or playing in his band RABBITFOOT
Isa Verna
Isa is a rising sophomore at North Carolina State University studying Industrial Design. When her nose is not stuck in a book, you can usually find her messing around with cameras and sewing. She is excited to continue working at Beta Technologies!
Ryan Richter
Ryan is an undergraduate at RIT studying software engineering. Outside of computers, Ryan loves music and plays the saxophone in the RIT jazz ensembles and his band. He also enjoys playing tennis and ultimate frisbee with friends. Ryan loves to talk about anything STEM, music, tennis, frisbee, or car/racing related.
Brendan Patience
Although born in Spain, I was mostly raised in Montreal. I majored in mechanical engineering at McGill. I alternate between bouldering and working out at the gym.
Mika Nalbandian
Mika Nalbandian is an engineering physics student at Queen’s University with a sub-plan in mechanical engineering. Mika is working with the battery team at BETA. In her free time, she enjoys skiing, hiking, traveling, and spending time with her friends and family!
Audrey Mundell
Born and raised in Vermont, Audrey is currently studying Chemistry at the University of Vermont with a minor in art. For the past two years she has interned on the Supply Team while doing the occasional creative project at BETA Technologies and will continue to do so over the summer. She enjoys making art, being on Lake Champlain, and everything to do with music (whether it’s spinning records or playing it on the drums). If you want to talk about anything from chemical science to your latest musical obsession, she’s there to share the excitement!
Gussie Guyette
I recently finished my freshman year at Boston College, majoring in communications. I am a very outgoing person and love to hang out with friends and family, especially my dogs.
Melanie Dostie
Melanie is a rising senior at Worcester Polytechnic Institute studying Mechanical Engineering and is joining the quality team at Beta. She has completed research around electric vehicles and wave energy converters and is eager to work with electric aviation. Outside of work, Melanie enjoys running, hiking, biking and crocheting.
Jack McBride
I am a manufacturing engineer who grew up on Long Island, NY. I graduated from Notre Dame with a B.S. in Aerospace Engineering, and went on to work in aerospace assembly technology before joining Beta. In my free time, I enjoy cooking, reading, and snowboarding.
Liam West
Liam studied mechanical engineering at CU Boulder where he developed an enthusiasm for systems testing and optimization while designing and building competition wind turbines. Having always considered the Champlain Valley home, he is thrilled to be back, working on instrumentation with Beta’s flight test team. When not at Beta, he is likely playing in the mountains, swimming in the lake, or trying to coax as many tomatoes as possible from his garden.
Samuel McPherson
Sam is a Mechanical Engineer with experience in sustainable fuel research and manufacturing electromechanical sensing systems. When Sam is not at work he enjoys surfing, skiing, rock climbing, all forms of biking and spending time with his partner Zoe and cat Gus.
Jennifer Brine
Jen excels in operations and efficiency, transforming dynamic challenges into streamlined processes. She believes that revolutionizing the aviation industry can create harmony on our planet, making a profound impact far beyond a single individual. An entrepreneur and mechanical engineer, Jen is driven by a passion for solving problems that impact humanity and the world. Her career spans across industries, from heavy movable structures to cutting-edge technology in the musculoskeletal space.
Ben Perry
I am a native Vermonter from a small town in orange county. I prefer to be outside and enjoy taking on new challenges. I am a father of one crazy little boy named Sawyer and an equally crazy mix breed dog named Astro.
Owen Brandriss
I recently graduated from UVM with a master’s in mechanical engineering, for which I conducted my thesis research in satellite propulsion. I have a passion for aerospace and sustainability, so I’m excited to be beginning my professional career on the motors team at BETA. Outside of engineering, I love spending time in the woods, whether searching for new swimming holes or learning to hunt. I also enjoy the guitar, brazilian jiu jitsu, and cooking elaborate meals for my friends.
Tom Grundherr
Tom caught the aviation bug at an early age, soloing in gliders at 15 and earning his Private Pilot Certificate before his driver’s license at 16. The only cure for his aviation passion was to immerse himself further. He was fortunate enough to be selected for Navy flight school, living his dream of flying F/A-18s in the United States Marine Corps. Today, Tom flies Gulfstream business jets for a living and is joining Beta as a part-time flight instructor, sharing his passion for aviation and the lessons he’s learned. When he’s not instructing, you can find him at small airports, tinkering on airplanes with his A&P certification or trying to get his hands on anything with wings. He also likes to snow ski, and ride motorcycles and mountain bikes.
Don (Russ) Russell
An avid enthusiast of things outdoors, preferably on 2 wheels and in the trees these days. Long-time hiker and seasoned Adirondack 46R. Devoted partner to an amazing woman. Father of 2 of the best young men I know and 1 English Mastiff named Oscar. Lover of food, and creative cooking time for friends and family. Designer of custom furniture when the wood shop gets lonely. So if I’m not at work CNC machining something that can hopefully change the world someday, in the kitchen or making sawdust…
Riley Livermore
Riley is a Flight Test Engineer, he spent 12 years doing flight tests for the Air Force and is a graduate of the Naval Test Pilot School. He loves being outside and enjoys biking, hiking, and making nourishing food.
Daron Hume
Native Vermonter, originally from the Northeast Kingdom. Degree from Vermont Tech. Over a decade in Aerospace, specializing in Inspection and Quality Engineering. Lives with partner Ashley, stepdaughters Lily and Willow, 2 dogs, 3 cats, 10 chickens, and a duck. Likes being outside, especially on a bike or a hike. Current passion: yard work.
Sabrina Marchand
Sabrina is originally from California but has called Vermont home for four years. She has worked in many areas from project management to operations, to procurement, and is excited to bring her skill set to BETA. Sabrina is looking forward to being a part of a team that is on the front line of innovation and sustainability in the world of aerospace. You can find her woodworking, doing an escape room, or spending time with her wife and pets.
Melaina Oak
Melaina has a BS in Integrated Natural Resources. After a short stint as an environmental consultant, she transitioned into healthcare IT software development as a technical writer, then engineering manager, and finally scrum master. She took a short break from the healthcare IT to work for The Nature Conservancy. She thrives on teamwork and collaborative problem-solving. She likes learning about how systems work and finding. When not working, she enjoys time with her husband and 3 cats, traveling, hiking, canoeing, and cooking.
Jack Nichol
Hi I’m Jack and I love aviation! Helicopters are my favorite but I do love it all. I am a former Marine that did 3 tours in Iraq during OIF. I have a lot of experience in aviation maintenance, manufacturing, as well as electronics. In my spare time I love to hang out with my family playing sports, skiing/snowboarding, or just enjoying all the greatness that is Vermont.
Colton Poulin
I graduated from Vermont Technical College with a degree in Electrical Engineering. I spent all 4 years in college interning at Beta where the experience I gained was invaluable to my labs and classroom studies. I look forward to continuing my learning as a full-time team member. I have a deep curiosity about how the world works and I enjoy building/creating things. In my spare time, you can find me preparing for my next CrossFit, Spartan, or dragon boat competition.
Maggie Bogosian
Having spent the last 15+ years in product, tech design and supply chain, Maggie is excited to be at BETA with a passion and curiosity for sustainability and innovation. She is process driven and constantly seeking the most efficient route that works for the entire team. Outside of work, her hobbies consist of gardening, natural dyes, weaving and snowboarding. You can find Maggie living in Burlington with her partner, 3 kids, dogs, chickens, bunnies and friends.
John Welch
After getting his bachelor’s degree in Natural Resources from UVM, John has been in the EHS field working with a variety of manufacturing, biotechnology, healthcare and higher education facilities. Outside of the office in the winter, you’ll find him snowboarding the Green Mountains and in the summer, exploring swimming holes.
Patrick Schlott
Patrick was born and raised in Vermont and has an educational background in Electrical Engineering. He is very motivated to work on projects that incorporate big ideas that change the world, and is eager to join the BETA team. When away from the work desk, Patrick enjoys kayaking, fishing, tinkering with electronics, hunting radio transmitters for fun, or installing payphones in rural VT.
Baxter Clements
I graduated from Champlain College with a degree in Computer Networking and Cyber Security. I enjoy skiing, scuba diving and reading. I am also setting up a home lab to segment and tinker with my home network and devices.
Trevor Larkin
In the realm of aviation I enjoy flying, embracing new technology and pursuing sustainability. It is my mission to help others to dream big and reach for the stars. I’m dedicated to building a brighter future and helping the aviation community and industry grow.
Jacob Sells
Jacob comes to Beta with a background in quality for precision motion control systems in Aerospace and Defense. A proud Hokie, and engineering graduate of Virginia Tech and William & Mary, he’s always looking for something new to learn. In his free time catch him sailing, snowboarding, backpacking and playing Uncle.
Andrew Woythal
Andrew earned a B.S. in mechanical engineering from Clarkson University. After graduating, he spent time in Colorado learning to fly in a 1946 Aeronca Champ, which sparked his passion for aviation. After working in the semiconductor industry for 5 years, he joins our team, excited to unite his passions with his skills. When not at work or out flying, Andrew can be found doing just about anything outdoors.
Brendyn Byrne
Brendyn is a multi-generational Vermonter, who has been taught to respect and protect the natural environment from a young age. Brendyn has a B.S. in Astronautical Engineering from the University of Southern California. He has previously worked with the Falcon 9 Subassembly and Mechanisms team at SpaceX in Hawthorne, California. In his spare time, he loves skipping rocks at sunset while listening to Khruangbin.
Gus Busch
I was born and raised in a small town in Northern Michigan. I attended Michigan State University, where I earned bachelor’s degrees in physiology and psychology, followed by a master’s in business management. After college, I began working at my family’s manufacturing company, where I developed a love for the industry. I’m intrigued by the manufacturing process and enjoy witnessing the creation of products. It’s remarkable how, as a collective whole, we can create and develop amazing products. One aspect I particularly appreciate about the manufacturing industry is its constant drive for improvement, a principle I try to emulate in my personal life as well.
Jake Gustafson
Jake has always lived and worked in Minnesota. During his undergraduate in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Minnesota, he found a love for software engineering thru various internships and extracurricular activities. After which he started working full time at Collins Aerospace in Burnsville MN doing various tasks around the certification of Level A Software where during his time he also completed his masters degree in Software Engineering.
Mika Nalbandian
Mika Nalbandian is an engineering physics student at Queen’s University with a sub-plan in mechanical engineering. Mika is working with the battery team at BETA. In her free time, she enjoys skiing, hiking, travelling, and spending time with her friends and family!
Calvin Wong
Calvin is a rising senior at the University of Michigan and will join the flight sciences team as an intern working on the wind tunnel model. He’s very excited to join BETA’s mission towards electrifying aviation and spend time in the Green Mountain State. Outside of work, he enjoys spending time with friends, rock climbing, and sketching in his journal.
Olivia White
I recently graduated UVM with my B.S in Health Sciences, and am currently pursuing my Masters in Public Health. I am also a member of the UVM Varsity Soccer team! I am very outgoing, love building new connections, and am passionate about climate solutions and sustainable practices. Outside of school and soccer, I enjoy golfing, playing with my dog, and trying new foods.
Sydney Weber
I am Sydney, born and raised in Vermont. I am currently in the Vermont Air National Guard as an F-35 Crew Chief as well as attending VTSU studying Electro-Mechanical Engineering. In my free time you can find me on the mountain skiing, out on Lake Champlain wake surfing, or out on the trails with my RZR.
Eli Smith
Eli just graduated from UVM with a degree in Computer Science. He is excited to be supporting the software team as a test engineer and can’t wait to return to the skies during flight training. You may find Eli hiking in the mountains or running through Burlington if there isn’t snow on the ground. Otherwise, look for his tracks in the backcountry!
Bryn Shannon
Bryn is originally from Richmond, Virginia, and is currently studying Mechanical Engineering at Georgia Tech. She enjoys spending her weekends whitewater kayaking, rock climbing, or really doing anything outside. As an outdoor enthusiast, Bryn values sustainability and is driven to support BETA’s mission.
Taylor Rowser
I’m a student at Utah State University studying marketing and computer science. While at university, I’ve worked on a team developing embedded software for a Cubesat. I’m excited to be a part of the team at Beta!
Ryan Richter
Ryan is an undergraduate at RIT studying software engineering. Outside of computers, Ryan loves music and plays the saxophone in the RIT jazz ensembles and his band. He also enjoys playing tennis and ultimate frisbee with friends. Ryan loves to talk about anything STEM, music, tennis, frisbee, or car/racing related.
Brendan Patience
Although born in Spain, I was mostly raised in Montreal. I majored in mechanical engineering at McGill. I alternate between bouldering and working out at the gym.
Shea McGregor
I am a Mechanical Engineering student at UVM and a lover of all things aviation. When I’m not in school or flying I serve part time as a crew chief in the Vermont Air National Guard.
Nick Lee
Nick was raised in the woods of Vermont and is pursuing a degree in Electrical Engineering from RIT. He is a former drone racer of over 5 years, and at school, he runs the CNC machines for his Baja SAE team. Outside school, he can be found playing hockey, driving around, biking, skiing, watching YouTube, or working on personal projects like building speakers or circuits.
Gabriel Klinger
Gabriel is an engineering student at Harvey Mudd College with experience in fluid dynamics, manufacturing, and battery storage systems. He is an aerospace enthusiast, passionate about helping make aviation greener. In his free time, you can find him belting out tunes from Phantom of the Opera, rocking out to Queen, or engaging in friendly soccer or volleyball matches with his friends.
Konstantinos Hatzidakis
My name is Konstantinos J Hatzidakis, I am currently studying General Engineering with a focus in Engineering Design at Norwich University (Military College of Vermont). I am an upcoming Senior at Norwich, just promoted to Captain, where I will be the XO of the largest company in the regiment. I have played hockey my entire life, played allover America and Canada. I moved away from home at 16 to attend boarding school in NH which I had scholarship for hockey to play. I am a dual citizen of US and Canada.
Julien Thibodeau
Julien is a recent Mechanical Engineering graduate who completed an internship at Beta Technologies and other sustainability-focused companies during his academic journey. He’s naturally curious about technology and deeply values environmental stewardship. Outside of work, he enjoys outdoor activities like camping and fishing.
Born and raised in Vermont where I graduated from UVM with a degree in business and a concentration in accounting. I love to spend time sailing with my dad in the summers and spending time with my friends on the mountain.
Marc Nasry
I’m an aerospace engineer, son of an aerospace engineer. With 10+ years of experience in aircraft structure as a liaison engineer, I love to find new and innovative ways of saving time and money by thinking outside the box and coming up with creative repairs. When I’m not saving the world by fixing planes, I enjoy long walks, playing basketball, and hanging out with friends. My faith and my family are everything to me and I always enjoy getting to know new people.
Alexandre Msellati
I’ve always wanted to become an engineer. I started my master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering in France, where I grew up, before coming to the US to continue in Electrical Engineering. Passionate about powertrains, those two specializations give me a comprehensive understanding of propulsion systems. When I’m not working or studying a textbook, I usually go for a swim or read a novel to relax.
Christian Lopez
Aeronautical engineer passionate about airplanes, I always want to learn more about new technologies and how it was done in the old days. I love spending time with family, they are my driving force.
Gabriel Bedell
Gabe brings a unique blend of experience to the BETA team, with a background in both supply chain and law. A passion for skiing led him and his wife to Vermont, where they both enjoy hitting the slopes whenever possible.
Kali Waag
With a lifelong passion for aerospace, I’ve dedicated my career to contributing to the industry’s success. As a seasoned professional specializing in managing quality systems and supplier development, I thrive in dynamic environments where autonomy and problem-solving skills are paramount. Beyond the boardroom, I cherish moments with my family, whether we’re hitting the slopes for some exhilarating skiing, casting lines into tranquil waters while fishing, or simply unwinding poolside at home. These moments rejuvenate me and provide balance to my professional endeavors.
Payton Veilleux
I’ve been involved in aviation for 14 years and have been working as an instructor for the last 5. I briefly flew with the airlines but my true passion is teaching others to fly. In my spare time you’ll find me hiking, skiing, or swimming with my pup, Piper.
Robert Turner
Robert hails from the Eastern Shore of Maryland and studied civil engineering at NC State. Robert has a background in airport design and construction and has a passion for all things aviation. He enjoys being on the water, hiking, cooking, and exploring with his dog, Beau.
Lyra Turner
As a Mechanical Engineer and curious individual, I’m always wondering why or how something is designed the way it is. I look forward to working with the BETA Team to revolutionize the aviation industry. Outside of work, you can find me hiking, backcountry skiing, or knitting with friends.
Craig Pearson
Born and raised in Essex Junction VT. Spent 4 years in the Army. Co-owner of leather and sheepskin business for 25 years. Master Craftsman. Builder, fabricator, and fixer of all things. Love my weekends at the cabin with family.
Amela Nurkanovic
Originally from Bosnia and Herzegovina, last 21 years I have called Vermont my home. For most of my life I have been working in the food industry. I’m a mother of twins, Norah and Adam. I like to sing, but nobody like to listen. Enjoying the nature, traveling, cooking, and baking.
Nicolas McCrae
Born and raised in Montreal, I started my career in composites manufacturing within the cycling industry. After a few years living in the US and developing equipment for World Cup and Tour de France winning cycling teams, I am back in Montreal ready to put my expertise to use in a new industry with far greater reach and impact. An avid mountain biker, rock climber, and home-brewer, I am looking forward to contributing to the cleaning up of the aviation industry.
Andrew Mann
Andrew is a materials engineer born and raised in Montreal. He has worked in materials & processes in the gas turbines and electric automotive industry, and is excited to take the leap into aerospace. Outside of work, he enjoys running, cooking, chess or playing with his dog, Baxter.
Justin Harris
Justin is a born leader who believes that collaboration breeds success. He brings a positive attitude and creative energy to BETA’s quality team. A self-proclaimed gear aficionado, he prides himself on being prepared for any and all outdoor adventures, but only if his pup Basil Girl can come.
Fisher
Husband to the most wonderful and beautiful woman ever. Father to two amazing daughters who inspire me daily. When not at work you’re most likely to find me ripping singletrack all Summer and chasing powder all Winter. Wife and both daughters are all astounding athletes, so you’re actually most likely to find me at a track or a cross country meet…but when not at those I’m out on singletrack and pow ha! Obsessed with airplanes and aeronautics since as far back as I can remember. Cannot even find the words to express how excited and honored I am to be a part of defining the future of this space.
Keith Castonguay
I come from a very diverse automotive background, including an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Automotive and Alternate Fuels Automotive with several brand master certifications. My two life passions since childhood have always been air planes and cars. When I’m not at work you can often find me with my family out in the woods exploring nature.
Adam Campbell
My name is Adam Campbell, I was born and raised in Vermont I have 2 children 14 & 2 with my wife of 4 years. I attempt to play golf during the summers and travel frequently for my son’s hockey in the winter.
Andrea Brien
I grew up outside of Philadelphia and attended the University of the Arts where I received my BFA and fine art photography. Shortly after college, I moved to Columbia South Carolina, and worked in the food, beverage, and hospitality industry while also working as a professional photographer. 19 years ago, I came to Vermont for the summer and never left. I enjoy entertaining, gardening, and outdoor activities with my partner, and our two Rhodesian Ridgeback pups.
Andrew Zachar
Andrew Zachar is a Flight Test Pilot and DER with 19 years of experience in Experimental/Engineering Flight Test. He has over 1100 Flight Test Pilot hours spread over 9 different aircraft certification projects and is excited to be part of a team certifying an industry-changing aircraft.
Nicholas Mazzoleni
Nick is joining the Beta team in the Raleigh office to support with FCC verification. He recently completed his PhD in mechanical engineering at North Carolina State University. During his time at N.C. State, he has worked on several different projects ranging from small-scale aeroelastic energy harvesting to soft robotics. He enjoys working in real-time MATLAB and Simulink environments and hardware-in-the-loop testing. In his free time, Nick likes to play tennis and the piano.
Jake Tomlinson
7 years of experience in Manufacturing, mainly in Quality and Inspection. Outside of work I really enjoy music.
Jonathan Laramee
Born and raised in Vermont living all over the state, and with 19 years experience making prototype and limited edition snowboards. In my off time enjoy spending time with family, in the mountains, on a skateboard, playing guitar, and tinkering on the house (and various VW’s).
Gabriella Bernardoni
After graduating from the University of Colorado with a degree in Chemical & Biological Engineering, I moved to VT to explore the East Coast and enjoy the perks of living near water and mountains. I am passionate about contributing to a sustainable future and very excited to collaborate with BETA on this mission! Outside of work, you can find me traveling and spending time with friends and family.
Thomas Beeson
I was born and raised in Montreal, Canada. I majored in aerospace engineering and have a master’s degree in electrical engineering from Polytechnique Montreal engineering school. I am passionate about aeronautics and robotics. My career goal is to bring the two together, and help build a sustainable, competitive and world-renowned aerospace industry in North-America.
Pere Arau Mussons
I was born in Barcelona/ Spain and moved to Germany at a young age. I studied Mechanical Engineering in Darmstadt/ Germany. I worked in Germany and Spain as an Automotive Design Engineer in various OEMs programs for BMW, Mercedes, and Seat in design and development of Body in white, Closures, Exterior and Interior trims. Eight years ago I moved to California and worked as a Design Engineer and DRE for several EV startups like Karma, Nio, Lucid and Canoo working on the development of BIW and closures. And now I am very excited to start working for Beta Technologies which aims to revolutionize urban air mobility by developing eVTOL aircrafts.
Will Feltus
I come from an automotive repair background focused mostly on the collision repair industry. When not working I enjoy spending time with my family and dogs. I like to spend my spare time on the lake exploring in our boat. I’m always looking for a better spot to fish or a quiet cove to paddleboard.
Jack Carnahan
Born and raised in Vermont. Jack graduated with a BA in criminal justice from Norwich University. Coming to Beta as a SkillBridge intern at the end of his active duty service with the US Navy.
Vivek Prabhakar
Originally from India, I moved to the US in 2021. I graduated from NC State University, Raleigh with master’s in manufacturing engineering and have worked with autonomous vehicles and energy storage companies in the past. At BETA, I am part of the product quality team, working to ensure the impeccable quality of our aircraft. After work, you can find me painting, trekking, or watching a UFC match at the local dive bar.
Kunal Bavikar
Kunal, a dedicated system safety engineer, holds a Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering from Georgia Tech. Fueled by a fervent drive to discover and implement sustainable transportation solutions, he eagerly seeks to contribute to BETA’s ongoing success. Beyond his professional pursuits, Kunal’s zest for life extends to his passions for travel, scuba diving, and exploring culinary delights as an enthusiastic foodie.
Harris LaRock
Harris graduated from UVM with a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering in 2022. He loves finding ways to have a positive impact on people and communities. Harris is excited about the opportunity at BETA to impact the world! In his free time, he enjoys going for long bike rides, morning runs, and anything else that involves sweating outdoors.
Addison LaRock
Addison is moving back home to Vermont after spending over a decade living in Washington and New Hampshire. Along with his passions for technical communication and teamwork, Addison is joining the Beta team, excited to collaborate with unique individuals to implement new technologies. Outside of the office, Addison enjoys spending time on mountain bike trails, skinning up mountains in the backcountry, and hooting-and-hollering down whitewater.
Adam Raymond
Vermont native, self-driven, and ambitious thrill seeker. I come from a background holding many roles within production, and supply chain management for the injection molding industry. I spend my days enjoying gardening and the challenging world of Beekeeping. If I am not on my deck enjoying the evening with my wife (Amanda) I am typically found at the track dragging knees, or in Vegas flying through the Red Rock canyons.
Frankciano Cabral
As an Avionics Technician since the age of 14, I’ve been immersed in the world of technology and innovation. With a passion for aviation and a love for all things tech, I strive to contribute to building a better future through my work. Whether it’s ensuring the safety and efficiency of aircraft systems or exploring new advancements in technology, I’m dedicated to making a positive impact in the world.
Shandra Jackson
Shandra started her aviation journey through the Navy as an aviation electrician. Growing a passion for quality, safety, and efficiency she found her role in continuous improvement. Focusing on alignment with supply chains and schedules, she strives to help the team have what they need to ensure minimal impacts to the build processes. When she is not at work you can find her spending time with her partner and pets, making improvements around her house, garden, or maybe paddling around a lake.
Jenn Moore
Jenn is a former attorney who pivoted mid-career and has spent the last 12 years in inventory and merchandise planning for some of Vermont’s most iconic companies. Her planning experience ranges from fly fishing gear to flowers to pajamas to teddy bears. She is excited to put her planning chops to use in pursuit of Beta’s mission of sustainable flight. Jenn shares a home in Burlington with her husband, two amazing teenagers, and their four rescued pets. In her free time, you will find Jenn planning her next international trip, practicing yoga, or dancing in the front row at a Phish concert.
Gerlie Cruz
Moving freight across the world in different modes for more than 15 years. Competence, compliance, continuous improvement, dedication, and hard work are my fundamentals. But bonding with the family is priceless; Spending time with my children and traveling or going on a road trip with my husband creates balance and harmony. It’s always relaxing to cook for them, preparing savory ramen in wintertime or crispy egg rolls during the summer.
Daniel Pearce
Daniel Pearce is Quality Systems professional with experience in Semiconductors, Appliances, and the Automotive Industry. Having lived in nine states and four countries, Daniel brings a variety of unique and unusual perspectives to BETA. A consummate problem solver with a keen eye for detail and experienced in leading multi-disciplinary teams to a common goal.
Thomas Williams
Born and raised in Vermont (STJ), 15 years in Boston for college and my early career, 2+ years in Denver, and now back in the Green Mountains. The best job of my life was a start-up in Cambridge that was working on cutting-edge technology with the long-term goal of increased sustainability so I couldn’t be more thrilled to start a similar journey here at BETA.
Ben Wasser
Ben is an engineer with degrees in mechanical engineering and materials science. He has a lifelong passion for aerospace and aviation and has worked on projects ranging from scientific space probes to air-launched rockets.
Jen Walker
After 12 years of teaching high school English, Jen transitioned into the world of technical writing. In the past 8 years, she has created technical content for an array of industries including educational software, bicycle manufacturing, and autonomous vehicles. She is delighted to add aviation to that list. When not at work, you can find Jen running, biking, gardening, reading, writing, snacking, and/or spending time with her husband and fur family.
Bryan Timm
Bryan is an engineer with over a decade of experience, both domestically and internationally. His professional background includes electrical engineering, software development, and data science. Originally from Wisconsin, Bryan loves all things beer and cheese. In the wild, Bryan can be found creating software, writing music, traveling, or tinkering on assorted DIY projects.
Hans Runge
Hans brings 12+ years of rotorcraft flight test and certification experience to BETA. His focus is on performance and flight characteristics including fly-by-wire applications. He loves spending time outdoors hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing with his family and friends.
Micah Ranallo
Micah has a passion for making things that go fast. he kicked off his career in Manufacturing Engineering with Zero motorcycles and is very excited to continue working with larger electric motors. In his free time, you can find him under a car, in the mountains, or in the water.
Tyler Prather
Originally from Florida, with a Master’s degree in Aviation Human Factors from the Florida Institute of Technology. Before Beta, I worked for Boeing working in Flight Deck Human Factors on the 737MAX and 777X. I am excited to be back on the East Coast, where you can find me paddle boarding, running, or snowboarding outside of work!
Nate Palmer
Nate is a mechanical engineer with experience in both start-ups and aerospace/defense. He has a knack for cleaning up mechanical designs and enjoys tinkering with hardware and building things at work and home. Nate unplugs in the mountains with his dog Maple, or somewhere outside with his superhero wife and 2 kids. He can’t wait to work on a mission he’s passionate about – progressing green energy and moving towards a sustainable future!
Gavin Murphy
I am Gavin Murphy, I am an outgoing active person who isn’t afraid to talk to anybody new. I work hard so I can play harder. When I’m not working you can find me on Lake Champlain either riding my jet ski or wake surfing.
Pete Emerson
I am a software engineer who loves automating All Of The Things. I grew up in Middlebury, and have recently returned to the area after living in Oregon and California for 17 years. I am now living in an old 1870s farmhouse with my wife, kids, dogs, cats, chickens, and ducks.
Alfonso Arreguin Echeverria
After a childhood in Tijuana, Mexico, Alfonso moved to the United States where he completed his degree in Aerospace Engineering. Over the past 6 years, he has worked on a variety of projects, with an emphasis on designing composite structural components. His hobbies include paragliding, sailing, and motorcycle riding.
Jonas Armstrong
Jonas grew up skiing, hiking, and biking in Flagstaff, Arizona. He studied Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering at Webb Institute in New York, where he learned to design ships. After graduating, he moved to New England to be close to the mountains. He is passionate about making aviation more efficient, and is thrilled to be part of Beta’s team doing that!
Raoul Surprenant
After completing a degree as a mechanical engineering technician, I am now at my last year of aerospace engineering at Polytechnique Montreal. I love to design, built and fly/crash model airplane and in my free time I’m passionate about rock climbing and the outdoors.
Diane Vitas
Diane, aka Skid, is a world traveler since conception. She is happily nesting in OHIO, the birthplace of aviation and now hub of Advanced Air Mobility. She views education melded with hands on experience as the ticket to adventure. She is forever thankful for her military aviation career, dabbling with GA flight instruction and homeschooling four incredible humans, as well as her touch and go with the National Aviation Hall of Fame, where she met some of the most inspiring innovators. She dedicates her time and energy pointing the next gen to look forward and up!
Joe Sedon
I graduated from the University of Vermont with a BS in Mechanical Engineering. I worked as a line cook before refocusing my career with a quality control role in aerospace manufacturing. I’m excited to join the team at BETA and be a part of developing sustainable aviation technology. Outside of work I love snowboarding, biking around Burlington, and playing sports with my friends.
David Schmidt
David Schmidt is native to Vermont and a Commercial pilot SEL, I am vice chairman of the Planning Commission in the town I live in. For the past 6 years I have instructed the Unmanned Aerial Systems course for senior aviation students at Vermont State University. I have spent the last decade as a building contractor and look forward to applying those skills at BETA.
Stephanie Menotti
With an academic background in biopsychology and computer science, I am interested in the interactions between humans and technology. My love of travel (28 countries and counting) has helped me develop a deep appreciation for the diversity of human experiences and connections. I’m driven by my competitive nature and team-oriented spirit, and there is no creative challenge, sporting event, or good adventure I would refuse. I love meeting new people, trying new food, learning new languages, and overall facilitating the growth of new neurons. In my spare time, I like exploring the world with my drone named Darwin, dabbling in photography, filling my house with LEGO creations, reading, and playing croquet in the mountains.
Michael McKenney
Mike brings over 20 years of aviation and leadership experience from the Marine Corps. While serving, he flew the AV-8B Harrier, conducted operations around the globe, and delivered technology solutions through collaboration with government, industry, and foreign partners. Mike is thrilled to build the future of aviation with the BETA team. When not in the D.C. or Burlington offices, you can find him on hiking, biking, and skiing adventures with his wife and three daughters.
Morgan Lamendola
I am passionate about helping people find their next adventure through recruitment. With my career history in startups and manufacturing, I am excited to contribute to BETA’s mission. Outside of work, I enjoy reading, fostering cats, and spending time in my garden.
Jason Jung
Born in Seoul, Korea, and raised in Indiana, I bring diversity wherever I go. Following in the footsteps of Neil Armstrong, I earned my Bachelor’s degree from Purdue and then went on to USC to complete my Master’s in Mechanical Engineering. Since I was young, I’ve been passionate about creating and doing things that positively impact people’s lives. I’m thrilled to continue pursuing that dream here at BETA. Outside of work, you’ll find me either traveling, exploring new restaurants in town, or playing sports.
Stephanie Dutra
Originally from California, Stephanie ventured to the Midwest to earn her BS in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Illinois. Joining the flight controls team at BETA, she brings a background in systems and human factors engineering, along with a passion for sustainable aviation ignited by designing a hybrid-electric aircraft her senior year. Outside of work, you’ll find her exploring her new home in Vermont, cooking up a storm, and practicing her latte art skills.
Lucas Cavallaro
My name is Lucas and I am thrilled to be a part of the team here at BETA! I have always been fascinated by aviation and pushing the limits of human design, so I couldn’t imagine a more exciting place to work. In my free time I enjoy skiing, snowboarding, golfing, cornhole, pickleball, squash, fantasy football, and attempting to grow bonsai trees. My amazing wife Jordan is a preschool teacher and we live at home in Fletcher with our Bernese Mountain Dog Morty and our cat Reese.
Michael Fredette
Mike (aka Animal) a 5th + generation Vermonter and father/stepfather of 7 adult humans, comes to Beta from Collins Aerospace as a Final Inspection Tech in MRO. Served 8 years with Vt Army National Guard as a commo guy, and many years in retail management/leadership roles. In the wild you can find Mike behind his drums, singing, chilling with his wife and 2 fur kids, chasing the sun on his Harley with his wife, or wandering the aisles of Lowe’s in search of inspiration for his next house project. Inside Beta you’ll likely see him singing, as well as drumming on anything and everything his hands and feet touch.
Bao Nguyen
Bao takes a keen interest in understanding how things are built and is excited to build a new efficient path into the future. Coming from a manufacturing background, he hopes to find the right flow that will allow him to achieve better ideas, higher goals, and deeper passions. He’s also a deal seeker and one that likes to min/max.
Brandi Vincent
Born and raised in Michigan. I’m a lifelong learner with a passion for exploring new ideas and perspectives. I thrive on curiosity and discovery. With a background in materials management, operations and ERP systems, I’m dedicated to continuous growth and finding creative solutions to challenges. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time being active with my family, friends and dogs. You’ll often find me working out, listening to podcasts, engrossed in a good book, attending a concert, skiing, enjoying pool days or volunteering in my community!
Meranda Turner
I am originally from Vermont, but my career has taken me all over the country to a wide range of manufacturing facilities. I am very excited to apply my aeronautical engineering background along with the experiences from other facilities to Beta. When I’m not at work you can find me adventuring outdoors or out on the soccer field.
Gary Snow
I’ve spent most of my career in Quality and Operations Management mostly in Defense industry. When not at work I enjoy all things cycling and spending time with my family and dogs.
Noah Ranallo
Noah fell in love with flying at age 18 and earned his Private Pilot Certificate at the Shelburne Airport, during his senior year in high school. He now joins BETA as a Flight Instructor and FAA Designated Pilot Examiner. He is excited about sharing the joys of flying with BETA team members and to be a part of moving aviation in a more sustainable direction. When he is not flying, you can find Noah skiing, biking, going on long walks in the woods with his wife and their dog Jenny, or working on a renovation project on his 1850s Farmhouse.
Kyle Paquette
I am a 4th generation Vermonter. Who grew up on my family farm in Colchester. I have spend over 20 years in the automotive industry as a technician. I enjoy all the seasons Vermont has to offer by spending summers boating on lake champlain and winters in the mountains.
Dylon Murphy
I bring a foundation in Manufacturing Engineering, earned through my BS degree from VTC, coupled with a passion for problem-solving and innovation. Excited to make meaningful contributions at BETA Technologies! Beyond the workplace, I find joy in exploring the outdoors with my son, Knox, whether it’s hitting the trails on ATVs & dirt bikes, snowboarding, playing sports, or hunting.
Aravind Manoj Nair
Joined BETA as a Motor Control Software Engineer, bringing fresh insights from completing my MS in Electrical Engineering, specialized in Electrical Drives and Controls, from UW Madison. In my role, I focus on innovating motor control software to enhance efficiency and performance. Beyond my engineering pursuits, I enjoy gaming and driving, which provide me with a perfect blend of relaxation and adrenaline outside the professional sphere.
Aayush Kapar
Aayush, hailing from Nepal, nurtured his love for Aviation and honed his skills in Aeronautical Science on the Florida Space Coast. His passion for aviation technology emerged, leading him to specialize in avionics. Since graduating, Aayush has been actively involved in avionics systems engineering, contributing to cutting-edge advancements. Outside of work, he finds joy in flying, mountain biking in the summer, and snowboarding in the winter.
Steve Dickison
Born and raised outside of Montreal, Quebec. I have a bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering from Concordia University (Montreal) and a master’s in Systems Engineering from SMU (Dallas, TX). Over my 13+ year career, I’ve worked on everything from designing and certifying helicopters to designing systems on the most advanced fighter jet engines in the world. I love skiing, snowboarding and mountain biking. I’m thrilled to be able to combine my passion for sustainability and aviation here at BETA.
Kristen Costello
Kristen’s passion for the future of aviation and sustainability led her to BETA’s Government Affairs team. A Kansas State graduate with over 15 years in aviation, Kristen’s journey includes collegiate and corporate flight training environments, Part 91/135 flight departments, as well as emerging tech/UAS operations prior to coming to BETA. As a dual pilot household, Kristen and her Vermont-native husband love to share all things aviation with their three daughters.
Eric Boros
I doggedly try to learn and to grow, however uncomfortable that may be. To improve is to change; to become perfect is to have changed often. I am an NC native, NCSU engineering alumni, athletics enthusiast, and have had a varied career: fencing coach, industrial hygiene tech, semiconductor test tech, and aerospace sensor design engineer.
Patrick Beauregard
Pat comes to BETA with experience in project management and logistics from the Army and a passion for sustainability as a lifelong skier and outdoorsman. He is excited to contribute to BETA as it changes the world. In his free time, Pat pursues adventures with his family in the great outdoors.
Jaxsen Yu
Born and raised in Ogden Utah. I spend two years working as a crew chief for the C-17A. After that I spent 2 years on Northrop Grummans A350 program. Then I moved to Northrop Grumman B-21 program.
Pandora West
Pandora’s love for the planet comes from growing up in the wilds of Colorado. Before studying for her mechanical engineering degree at CU Boulder, she worked in diagnostic genetics in Utah, where she discovered her true priorities: skiing and long desert trail runs. Now, a mechanical engineer with an interest in integrating electrical and mechanical systems, Pandora continues to dabble in sports and farming with her husband and English shepherd, all while planning the next big adventure.
Éloi Pinon
Éloi graduated from a master’s degree in aerospace engineering in Montreal after studying mechanical engineering in Toulouse, France. He is passionate about Formula 1 and mechanical sports. After interning for 8 months at Beta, he will be part of the Structures test team and will design equipment to break (maybe not every time) aircraft components. When not at work, you can find him playing rugby, working out at the gym, playing Spikeball, having a BBQ with his friends in a park or cooking for his roommates.
Alden Martin
7 Year Manufacturing Engineer, 5-Axis Mill and CMM programmer. Formerly at Pre-Tech Precision Machining. Enjoys sailboat racing, skiing, occasional skydiving.
Lucas Lonegren
I am a dedicated leader who excels at the intersection of creative and strategic thinking. The belief that passion is born from curiosity and stepping out of one’s comfort zone and continuously learning is at the core of my drive. Over the last 16 years, I have served as the Director of Operations for the leading U.S. manufacturer of handmade glass lighting components.
Matthew Hill
Lifetime aviation enthusiast and history buff. With a background in graphic design, screen printing, and automotive repair, I spend most of my free time reading science fiction, historical non-fiction, and playing video games. Very enthusiastic to be a part of the next generation of flight.
Isaiah Foss
I’m Isaiah Foss, a born and raised Vermonter. I even acquired my BS in Mechanical Engineering here in state at UVM. When I’m not running to look out the window or staring up at the sky watching for aircraft overhead, I’m likely designing, 3D printing, or building something my wife likely disapproves of! I’m naturally curious, and sometimes this manifests in disassembling objects I probably shouldn’t have touched. My curiosity fuels my motivation as I’m always in search of new information!
Dustin Fisher
Dustin is an avid tinkerer and RIT graduate with a degree in Computer Engineering Technology. Dustin is from Saugerties New York and is ready to be a part of the team that will be the future of electric flight. In his free time, he can be found in the garage making electric dirt bike conversions, at the computer designing custom electronics for his projects, or at the slopes on his snowboard.
Hugo Dumortier
Hugo is a french former intern at Beta. He used to work on the design of the wing dev test rig, he is now working with the awesome Manufacturing Team. He is eager to put his skills to the service of the team. Out of work, Hugo loves to go to the swimming pool or running, when the weather gets cold, you will find him at a table with a cute board game !
Ryan Dubois
I am a lifelong Vermonter with a background in industrial PC manufacturing. My hobbies are largely comprised of gaming whether that’s PC gaming, board gaming and jigsaw puzzles for the cozy winter months. Always up for any kind of challenge, it’s almost a compulsion for me to find the solution.
Teddy Coughlin
Edward Coughlin (Teddy) is a graduate from Clarkson University in 2023. I enjoy anything that spins. I am an antique airplane, boat, and car enthusiast. I like fixing and restoring anything vintage from chainsaws to airplanes. I am an avid rc airplane builder and pilot, and enjoy snowmobiling, skiing, flying and boating. I am a private pilot working towards IFR and commercial.
Greggory Carpenter
Gregg is a born and raised Vermonter which instilled in them early a love of nature and green spaces. Gregg has more than 10 years of professional firmware development experience and a love of making embedded computers and code in general do interesting things in useful spaces.
Michael Awad
Michael is a recent Cornell and Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute graduate. In his free time, he plays and watches soccer, and tries to cook. He is the youngest of three, and yes, his family saved the coolest kid for last.
Justin Allen
I’m Justin. I grew up in a variety of places being a Navy brat and settled down with my wife Amanda and our 6 year old son, Liam in Lincoln. I have a background in assembly in the industrial electrical field and have always been an aviation enthusiast. When not at work, you can find me biking, camping, or playing retro video games with my family
Evan Zelesnik
After studying Physics at DePauw University, my interest in sustainability led me to work at SolarCity & Tesla. Having always had a passion for aviation, I later decided to pursue a MS in Aerospace Engineering at Utah State University. At BETA I look forward to contributing to the goal of making aviation less reliant of fossil fuels. At home I enjoy time spent with my wife and our 2 dogs and playing/recording music.
Christopher Mastropietro
Chris is a manufacturing expert having worked in a wide range of fields, from optics to batteries. Chris is highly driven individual who works hard and plays hard. When not working Chris can be found either engrossed in a personal project or in the mountains as an avid skier and Rock climber.
Davis Lavoie
Born and raised in Vermont. Graduated from UVM with degree in electrical engineering. Previous experience at Beta wiring tests rigs and creating harnesses for Alia. Hoping to bring my skills to the instrumentation team. Enjoy spending time outside in the green mountains and lake Champlain.
Alex Kreissle
Hi! I am Alex. With a background in automotive mechanic and racing (I worked with NASCAR) I love tinkering with anything and everything. Outside of work I love being outside hiking, sailing, spending time with my daughter and working on projects.
Seamus Hannan
Seamus is a curious tinkerer with a penchant for experimentation. His creative impulses force him to do things like play music with his friends, build odd things out of wood, and refuse to follow recipes. Skiing is the only sport he really cares about, but he’s usually ready for any kind of adventure, especially unguided bushwhacking in the woods. He was a Geologist in college and will often forget to look up from the ground. He lived in a converted short bus for 2 years.
Eric Gifford
Originally from Vermont, Eric is an electro-mechanical engineer with a passion for the outdoors and working with his hands. When not in the office, Eric loves to ski, bike, hike or can be found working on his latest project in his shop.
Connor Garnsay
Connor is a native from Michigan and got into the world of Aviation through a technical program there. Through that found himself with a job in VT working on general aviation aircraft. The drive for a more sustainable future and a hardworking personality to be better has led him here.
Holly Chase
Holly Chase is on the public affairs team at BETA, joining the team with a background in consulting and non-profit work. She is a proud graduate of the University of Connecticut (go Huskies!) and has enjoyed time spent living Utah, Colorado, and New Hampshire before settling in Vermont. Outside of work, you can find Holly catching up on podcasts, skiing, or biking with her husband Eddie.
Crystal Berg
Crystal was born and raised in North Dakota and loves fishing, board games, and recreational sports leagues. She brings a variety of perspectives to BETA’s Software Verification team, including majors in Mathematics and Aerospace Engineering, with experience in System Requirements Development and Test & Verification. When she’s not doing house projects or starting a new craft project, Crystal aspires to finally attain her private pilot’s license and fly her friends and family around the country.
George Drumheller
George works on the commercial team. He is a Seattleite and received his B.A. from Middlebury College in Political Science. He loves biking, climbing, and listening to podcasts. Most of all, he loves his dog, Walter.
Brandon Campbell
Brandon was born and raised in Savannah, GA. He currently lives in Pooler, GA with his wife, Anna, and 2 daughters Chloe (14) and Carly (11). Brandon brings 16 years of aerospace experience to BETA with a background in both Accounting & Procurement. He graduated with a BS in Finance from Florida State University & MBA from Georgia Southern University. He’s joining the Supply Chain team to manage consumables, hardware, and raw materials. When he isn’t pinned to his laptop chasing parts, he’s either spending quality time with his family or golfing.
Tracy Tupper
I’m a native New Yorker. 25 years of Quality / Engineering / Consulting experience under my belt. I graduated with Honors in Engineering from a SUNY College. I live in Dannemora, NY (famous for the 2015 Prison Break/Ben Stiller made a mini-series of the escape) with my Wife, 4 dogs, 2 cats, and 4 tropical birds. I have 3 grown children who are doing amazing things in their professional careers. I have been a musician since the age of 5 (many, many moons ago). I play almost any instrument, but have a special love for the Bass Guitar. My love began with Bombardier Aerospace in 1999.
Mike Dubie
Mike grew up in Vermont and is part of the Government team. Prior to joining Beta, Mike served for 36 years in the USAF and ANG as an F-16 fighter pilot and senior general officer. As a commercial pilot, he also flew the 727, A-320, DC-10 and 747-400 at Northwest and Delta Airlines.
Ben Schullo
I was born and raised in Minnesota. I graduated from UW-Stout with a degree in Manufacturing Engineering, but pivoted into supply chain focused roles for the past 6+ years. My fiancé and I moved to Vermont in 2021 when she got into Residency at UVM and we have really enjoyed all Vermont has to offer. In my free-time I enjoy spending time with my fiancé, our dog and 2 cats, doing outdoor activities, and Coaching Crossfit.
Larry Burke
Larry has over three decades of software and hardware engineering experience including 8 years of airborne software development. When he learned about the extraordinary things Beta was doing with electric flight, he knew he needed to be part of it. Larry is originally from Pennsylvania and enjoys biking, kayaking, and boating. He is thrilled and honored to be a Beta Team Member!
Nicholas Bresnahn
I studied materials engineering at Colorado School of Mines and since graduating I have worked with a variety of manufacturing processes such as investment casting, CNC machining, and Li-Ion battery production. I love learning how everything is built and enjoy making improvements. In my free time, you’ll find me working on my car and motorcycle in the summer, and skiing the in the winter.
Tom Baginski
Tom has a BA in Graphic Design from Massachusetts College of Art and Design. Since then he has become a Creative Director, an Art Teacher, a Chef, an Immersive Environmental Artist and most recently a 3D Fabricator. He helped to build the half scale replica of the Wright Brothers model B airplane that hangs over the ticket area in the Burlington Airport. He is also one of the artistic team members that built the Mushroom Forest shipping container that lives in the Beta parking lot.
Caroline Desorcie
I am a native Vermonter who enjoys spending time with my family. As a mom of three daughters and nana to two grand-daughters I seem to keep pretty busy outside of work. I also have two dogs, Finnley and Brody. Through the years I have found a strong interest in finance and look forward to joining Beta and continuing to grow.
Chris Perren
Chris is Vermont native with a deep background in machining. Growing up in his fathers shop starting on a broom, he’s worked his way up to programming and machining multi-axis high precision parts. After spending the past decade+ in the plastics and nuclear industries, he feels it’s time to focus on a more sustainable and new, exciting path in the machining world. When he’s not on a machine, you can catch Chris in the backcountry in the winter or on the pitch coaching his 2 daughters during the warmer months.
Calvin Butler
Calvin is a Data Engineering with experience in Cloud Engineering and DevOps. In his free time he works on end to end software projects, practices his handstands, and loves to be outdoors. Calvin is extremely grateful for the opportunity to work with and support fun and hardworking people on the path to sustainable flight!
Cordial Di Ruggiero
Cordial is a Manufacturing Technician with a BS from Unity Environmental College and is certified in Continuous Improvement. He has a background in aerospace, manufacturing, and conservation law enforcement. When not at work he is in his workshop tearing down/building computers, making creations with his 3D printer, or fixing an appliance he accidentally broke (don’t tell his wife).
Kelly Lucier
I’m Kelly Lucier and am a native Vermonter. I’m a mom of 4 boys and spend most of my nights and weekends on a baseball, football or soccer field. I love baking, all things outdoors and reading when I can find free time. I’m super excited to join the Beta Team and make a difference!
Heather Selleck
Also known as bubbles, sunshine or smiley you’ll find Heather crunching numbers or paying the bills. With zero volume control you will also likely hear her giggles. While her pragmatic approach sent her into the finance field, she’s extremely excited to be able to support the dream of flight.
Laurent Regnault
Laurent has been an expert in Dimensional Management (± on the drawings!) since 2002. He worked in France and Quebec, mainly for aerospace and a little bit for train.He love’s rock’n roll dance and rocket science!
Seth Maciejowski
Seth grew up in southern Vermont and can be often found logging flight time falling off local cliffs while rock climbing. He walks the talk of sustainable living as a long time user of solar power and biomass (AKA wood). Seth’s background is in Electrical Engineering and he is always interested in finding unique ways of using new and old technologies to solve cool problems.
Colten Lowe
I’m Colten, I grew up in Alaska working at remote fishing and skiing lodges where I gained an appreciation for the aviation world. I have 10+ years of experience in facilities maintenance and entrepreneurial experience running my own small business. Some of my favorite things include game nights, outdoor adventures and sitting around a campfire.
Adam Lowe
Adam joins BETA as an intern after over a decade in the Army as an Aviation Officer and Black Hawk pilot, more succinctly described as “a little of this, a little of that.” His career has taken him all over the world, but his favorite experiences have centered around creating and sustaining incredible teams. First introduced to Vermont through his now wife, they have been thrilled to recently relocate to the state to raise their daughter. Outside of work, any time not devoted to his family he endeavors to spend outside hiking, skiing, or cycling.
Rebecca Lawlor
I am Rebecca and I am from Belfast, Northern Ireland. In Ireland, I live with my wife Eimear and French Bulldog Alfie. I am a total foodie! I love cooking and baking, the more extravagant the better, and as I am coeliac I enjoy the challenge of experimenting. I love playing any type of sports, and spend my time in Ireland in the outdoors – playing rugby, walking the beach, hiking and surfing. I love to travel and no adventure is ever too big!
Paul Howell
Most recently served as Operations Manager at Husky Technologies, after receiving A&P in 1991, worked in general, airline, private jet and helicopter industries.
Keith Hendershot
Hi my name is Keith Hendershot, and I live in Rochester Vermont. I am a Private Pilot, Remote Pilot, Airframe and Powerplant Mechanic. I started in aviation as a avionics bench technician repairing legacy avionics and autopilots, which quickly transitioned to line maintenance and service. I am excited to bring all the skills I have learned over the years to contribute to the Beta team.
Meghan Burns
Meg studied Musicology (BA/MA), and transitioned to the business world, later earning her MBA. Meg previously worked in the outdoor industry, focusing on sustainability. Recently, Meg worked in the electric power equipment industry, tackling sourcing and process excellence. Meg is passionate about sustainable innovation, process improvement, and supplier management. When Meg is not at work she can be found on a snowboard, bike, rocking out on guitar/bass, fishing, or traveling with her family.
Jamie Bullivant
Passionate, competitive, thinker, and idea guy – has been the core of what drives me. I have a love for people – family – friends- and work. Work hard and play hard!
Bobby Backofen
Bobby started at Virginia Tech in Mechanical Engineering while working for a construction equipment manufacturer. After completing both an EE and ME degree he spent most of his career making embedded systems for electrical power equipment and Lithium-Ion batteries. He’s excited to use all of his training to make electric airplanes fly.
Mike Werner
Mike has spent over 30 years designing and manufacturing Interesting contraptions in the aerospace, defense, semi-conductor, automotive and general manufacturing sectors. He started and ran an industrial automation design/build firm for nearly 10 years. Mike is a long time Vermonter who spends his time with family sailing, hiking, biking, skiing, diving, walking dogs, but mostly doing chores. He is actively pursuing his private pilot license.
Lindsay Staples
Prior to joining the legal team at Beta, Lindsay served as Senior Manager of Legal Operations and Paralegal Services at National Life Group where she has nearly 17 years experience in the financial services industry. Lindsay spearheaded the Legal Ops Department, championing legal project management and legal technology implementation. Prior to that Lindsay launched her career in the litigation department at WilmerHale in Boston, MA. She’s a St. Michael’s College alum, now residing in Vermont with her family, relishing the state’s natural beauty.
Mike Murphy
My name is Mike. I grew up in Vermont. I’m passionate about board sports and Mountain biking. Some qualities that are important to me are creativity, the ability to have fun, and the pursuit of a good adventure. I enjoy building, woodworking and a variety of different art mediums.
Holly LeClair
I have a bachelors degree in Psychology and began my career in safety in 1995. Since then I have worked in construction, insurance and managed a safety consulting company for 20 years focusing on helping VT businesses with their safety management. I enjoy spending time with my family, including my furries ones.
Adil Khan
Over 10 years of experience in product/quality assurance and certification for a variety of aerospace and space products. Specializing in airborne SW/AEH and working on certification efforts with FAA, TCCA, aircraft OEMs, NASA, CSA, JAXA, etc. I enjoy biking, hiking, soccer, basketball (let’s go Raptors!), cooking and poutine (you need the St. Albert’s cheese curds).
Melissa Kelly
I grew up in NH and graduated with a BS in mechanical engineering from Daniel Webster College. I spend my free time flying, hiking, backpacking, skiing, and mountain biking. When I’m not outside, I am either taking photos, woodworking or spending time with friends and family. I’m excited to make the world a more sustainable place by supporting BETA’s mission to develop a net-zero emission aviation system.
Ian Hommel
Food brings us all together. What better way to stay together!
Solal Hecker
I was born and raised in Paris, France, where I learned to enjoy life, travel, good food and wine. I love skiing, scuba diving and soon… flying. Lately, I’m very interested in philosophy, particularly the subjects of ethics and metaphysics. I spend a lot of my free time walking my dog in the woods with my dear wife. I’m also a father of 3 wonderful kids (even if I’m reminded how teenagehood can be challenging…)
Amanda Wheeler
I have 10 years of aerospace experience working in both quality and supply chain. I have supported both new product introduction and sustaining engineering efforts in my career and have a strong bias for action. Aviation has always fascinated me and I’m excited to be able to merge this interest with my career. As a single mom of two I’m quite busy- but love to run, hike and hoop dance in what little spare time I get!
Akila Vedaiyan
Akila earned her Bachelor’s degree in Electronics and Communication Engineering. Her aerospace expertise was honed during her tenure at Honeywell Aerospace, where she contributed to software and systems verification across various domains, including engines, displays, FMS, and flight controls. Outside of work, Akila enjoys exploring new destinations, spending playful time with her children, and hiking in the woods with her family.
Eli Rodriguez
Eli has a BS from Florida International University and an MS from Purdue University in Mechanical Engineering. He has experience designing drivetrains in Aerospace application. He enjoys spending his spare time with his family.
Quinn Perini
Quinn is a recent graduate from Harvard University where he got a BS in mechanical engineering. Passionate about electric vehicles since he was a child, Quinn is a proud member of the battery team and is enthusiastic about designing the next generation of battery packs. Originally from Harrison, NY, Quinn has embraced the outdoor Vermont lifestyle and likes to go skiing, running, biking, and, when it’s warm, out on Lake Champlain. He is also an avid photographer, loves to travel, and enjoys a good craft beer.
Vasu Nambeesan
Vasu is the reliability guy, working within the Safety team at Beta. He has a graduate degree in Energy Science from Carnegie Mellon University and led a team of performance and reliability engineers in the grid-scale energy storage industry in a previous life. He’s also a private pilot and volunteers at the VA Wing Civil Air Patrol. Beta brings together his experience with Li-ion batteries and his passion for flying!
Jake Burnham
Jake brings a passion for supporting people and building teams to his role with Beta. With experience as a teacher, designer, construction manager, and heavy equipment operator he is driven by elevating teams to achieve audacious goals. A generational Vermonter, Jake finds calm in the work of the woodshop, sunrise skin track, or après SUP.
Jack Brown
Jack is a Middlebury College grad and instrument-rated pilot. His formative work experience was at a commercial apple orchard. He loves operations and hands-on work and is thrilled to be at Beta as a member of the structures manufacturing team.
Marco Antonitti
Marco Antonitti has a diploma in Automobile Mechanics, a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering and certificates in Stress Analysis, Finite Element Methods and GD&T. Having specialized in Materials and Composites, he is stubbornly curious when it comes to composite structures and mechanical systems. If it moves, he needs to know how it works. Outside of the 9-5, Marco has traded trackdays with his motorcycle and major repair/maintenance on his vehicles (due to his transition to an EV) for Arduino boards, building a bicycle for his two kids – and the next family project, a go-kart.
Zenab Muntasar
Office coordinator for the Montreal office and I am currently pursuing my undergraduate degree in Human Relations at Concordia University. I have experience in various roles within human services, and I now support the beta team with any facility and office-related tasks. In my free time, I enjoy traveling and exploring new places to eat
Cory Deacon
I am a Manufacturing Engineer who loves to learn and try new things. When I am not at work I’m either building things in my garage, tinkering with my ham radio, or running on the Burlington bike path.
Trent Thorson
Trent is a Mechanical Engineer with experience in design, metal and composite materials, and analysis. He has worked on projects from the size of a 400 ton mining truck to a suspension on a disk drive. He has been working on Part 23 aircraft structures for the last 16+ years. He enjoys the outdoors, golfing, hunting, fishing and house and car projects. He has been married to his college sweetheart for 27 years and has a son and a daughter.
Tom Kurowski
Tom believes there is a profound opportunity for technology to enhance the way we experience the natural world. Born and raised in Buffalo NY, he has lived by the motto “There’s no bad weather – just bad gear”. That translated into having a hobby for every weather pattern and no excuse to stay inside. With experience in conventional hydraulic flight control systems, Tom is excited to usher in a cleaner way to navigate our world.
Karen Iacopi
I am a CFII and love to educate people about anything aviation. I am a jack of all trades and expert of nothing specifically. I have 30 years experience in aviation and 15 years experience in FAA Certification. I am energized to be a part of the future of aviation!
Garrett Pitt
Garrett is an aerospace engineer who proudly grew up in the Lakes Region of New Hampshire but considers Vermont a pretty great place too. After completing a master’s degree focusing on optical diagnostic techniques for aerodynamic propulsion applications, Garrett is “electrified” to contribute to the sustainable future of aviation. When not working, he can be found running, hiking, or flying towards the nearest mountains or plucking out Old Man Luedecke tunes on the banjo.
Chris Pugh
I’ve been doing automotive Collision work since I was a kid. I like trying different things from, building clever things, brewing beer, going mudding in the woods. I love spending time with my two goofy little boys and my beautiful wife.
Dylan Kemelor
I grew up in DC and graduated with a BS in aerospace engineering from Georgia Tech. I spend my free time whitewater kayaking & rafting, rock climbing, backpacking, skiing, and biking. When I’m not outside, I like to sew backpacking gear, brew beer, play my guitar, or cook with friends. I’m stoked to make the world a more sustainable place by supporting BETA’s mission to develop a net-zero emission aviation system.
Caitlin Bernstein
Caitlin is a Recruiter who is passionate about finding the best talent to grow teams. She recently moved back to her home state of Vermont after living out West for nearly 10 years. She spent time in San Francisco, where she started her Recruiting career, helping fast-growing start-ups
James Wasmer
Originally from Connecticut, I earned his undergraduate degree in Vermont and I’ve called it home ever since. With a diverse background including sales, healthcare, logistics, and software development, I’m excited to help bring the future of electric aviation into the present.
Scott Suiter
Scott is a true life-long aviation enthusiast and inveterate tinkerer. From building model planes with his dad and wind tunnels out of cardboard boxes when he was a kid, to learning to fly and earning a Commercial pilot’s license (with Multi-engine and Instrument ratings), and now getting to teach his 10 yo son to fly RC models, the love of all things flying has played a huge role in his life. Scott brings to BETA over two decades of warehouse and logistical experience, as well as mad skills piloting forklifts at extremely low altitudes.
Colby Pearce
Colby is a versatile professional that cut his teeth at the dealer level of luxury cars providing optimized task management and acute supplier communications. He chose to hitch his professional wagon to BETA’s when he realized its passion for people and sustainable technology aligned with his own. An intermediary by trade and a hobbyist at heart, Colby can be found juggling 20 different interests outside of work; embracing the adage that you can’t truly experience everything without trying it all!
Seton Mangine
Seton is an attorney for Beta. She previously worked for the world’s largest aerospace company after years of private practice in a law firm. Seton can be found in the mountains regardless of season.
Daniel Foote
Danny moonlights as a mechanical engineer with a BS and MS from NC State university. He has a passion for automation and the hands-on work needed to integrate it. When not at work, he spends his time watching movies, climbing, and farming.
Michael Ashley
I am born and raised here in Vermont and have always been a “gearhead”. Since the age of three I have been riding, driving, or floating in/on anything I could get a hold of. I look forward to taking that passion to the air with Beta!
Andrew Kalinen
Vermont engineer who loves flight, technology, and a bit of chaos. Before Beta, Drew quit his job to live in a van and travel the world, pursuing his passions of BASE jumping, skydiving, climbing, and speed flying. Drew has a degree in Mechanical Engineering from UVM and a PPL.
Bil Albright
Bil is a member of the Facilities Team. He is a graduate of the Savannah College of Art of Design with a degree in Illustration and a minor in Product Design. He is a native of Carbon County Pennsylvania and has lived here in Vermont for the last 20 years working as a local art teacher. He can be found popping out of dumpsters, building wild creations in his shop, restoring old vehicles, searching for the perfect line on one of his boards, and best of all being a dad to 2 amazing kids!
Anna Winslow
Anna has a BS and MS in Aerospace Engineering (NC State University, Penn State University) and has experience integrating electromechanical systems for aircraft. In her free time, she enjoys gardening, hiking, and making things.
Jessica Trboyevich
Jessica has focused her career on defense and aerospace software. She’s worked in all parts of the engineering development lifecycle from system definition through formal verification. She’s a Minnesota transplant where it isn’t uncommon to see a lake full of float planes. Jessica enjoys being outdoors in the sun or the snow and aspires to be the best crazy cat lady.
Seth Tobrocke
I am originally from Plattsburgh NY and as of 2017 have settled down in S Burlington VT with my wife and two daughters. My background has a wide range of fields including construction, automotive, manufacturing, and technology. Being creative and thinking outside the box is the way I roll. When I am not working, my wife and I drive all over New England with our girls who play ice hockey and Lacrosse. It is an honor for me to be joining this distinguished community.
Thomas O’Keeffe
Tom, a Vermont native, graduated from VTC with his associates in mechanical engineering and a bachelor’s degree in sustainable design and technology. For the past ten years, he has built his career in manufacturing working with a small team to successfully make product that supports our electric energy future. His passion for decarbonizing technologies fuels his work. When he’s not working, Tom enjoys hiking with his dog, eating great food, spending time with friends/family, and crushing sci-fi/fantasy novels.
Shawn Rainville
Former automotive technician for Ford. Currently serving in the VT National Guard as a horizontal construction engineer. I enjoy taking apart and fixing almost anything and spending time with my family. You’ll likely find me in the mountains or at one of Vermonts many craft breweries.
Charles Mclaren
Charlie has worked as a mass properties engineer around the globe across a broad range of projects, the last assignment being with BAe System on the TF-X in Turkey. He feels excited to be part of the BETA family now and looking forward to playing an important role in the future of sustainable flight. He loves his football, or, as it’s otherwise known, soccer.
Ashley Loper
As a seasoned UX designer with a decade of experience, I thrive on crafting intuitive digital experiences that delight users. Beyond pixels and wireframes, I find solace in my garden, where I channel my creativity into cultivating natural beauty.
Sadie Strom
Sadie is a UVM graduate passionate about sustainable solutions focused on the environment and energy. When not in the office, Sadie can be found outside. She enjoys hiking around New England, drawing, leatherworking, and cold water dipping.
Weijie Bao
Originally from China, I began my engineering journey with studies and work 14 years ago upon relocating to Canada. With extensive experience at Bombardier Global 7500 and Airbus A220, I have honed my skills in aircraft structural stress. Equipped with this expertise, I am excited to contribute my wealth of knowledge to the next chapter of aviation for sustainable products. Beyond work, I find joy in backpacking, skiing, cycling, and yoga.
Jake Goldman
Jake Goldman is on the public affairs team at BETA where he works on the company’s communications and government affairs strategies. He spent most of his career at the intersection of politics, communications, and media – helping fast-growing companies tell their story to the right folks at the right time. After spending nearly his whole life in New York City, Jake moved to Vermont to support BETA’s mission of electrifying aviation. He now lives in South Burlington, VT with his wife and son.
Kai Veitinger
Since Kai was a kid, he wanted to build things that fly. After being heavily involved in aerospace and sustainability groups in college, Kai began working in the aerospace industry as a design engineer. He now joins Beta to help the push toward certification! Outside of aerospace, Kai also enjoys skiing, mountain biking, and Formula 1.
Dylan Richard
Dylan is a graduate of Clarkson University with a desire to manufacture in a meticulous and efficient environment. Like many others at Beta, he shares a passion for making things fly both at work and in his free time, from airplanes to the skis under his feet.
Declan Giltz
Declan is a recent grad from McGill University where he achieved his BA in Computer Science and Math. Focusing on NLP/NLU and applications of Large Language Models, Declan is excited to work with the ever-expanding paradigm of natural language AI. A native of Plattsburgh, NY who quite literally has Lake Champlain tattooed on his arm, Declan loves the lake, hiking, skiing, and reading.
Cameron Garland
United States Military Academy class of 2026, Mechanical engineering major, minors in Aeronautical engineering and Robotics.
Blake Edwards
Blake is a mechanical engineering student at USMA who is coming to BETA to help and learn in the world of aerospace engineering. He’s had a fascination with anything that flies since he can remember. He intends to go on to develop a small aerospace manufacturing company later in his engineering career after flying for either the Army or Navy.
Gregory Capps
Gregory is a rising senior studying Aerospace Engineering at North Carolina State University in Raleigh with minors in English and Mathematics. He is also working towards his Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering with a focus on control systems. Previously, Gregory has conducted research on how drones can protect African wildlife and worked on the V-22 Osprey. He is excited to bring his experiences with VTOL platforms to BETA’s Raleigh facility this summer!
Bryan Seymour
Bryan Seymour is an electrical engineer with 15+ years of experience designing, building, and commissioning OEM machinery for the metals industry. He is excited to take that experience and put it to good use anywhere he can. Outside work you can find him playing ice hockey, mountain biking, or going on adventures with his family.
Jennifer Peterson
Jenny is a licensed attorney with a J.D. from Suffolk University Law School. Outside of work, she is a commercial and instrument-rated helicopter pilot. Jenny is passionate about aviation, maple syrup, and finding ways to protect and further BETA’s legal interests.
Matthew Peak
As a Master Electrician Matt has a passion for all things electrical. When not putting power in others hands you’ll find Matt chasing the sunset on his motorcycle, or playing with his children and dogs.
Jon Mullen
For Jon, Beta represents the confluence of his work in engineering, aviation, and conservation. He also likes to think that working here provides karmic offsets against his use of 100LL.
Norman Fournier
Introduced to aerospace engineering by my brother Jack as I was entering college… the seed was sown. At the same time, I enlisted in the Canadian Air Force Reserve as an aero-engine/airframe technician to surround myself with different types of aircraft and get some hands-on experience. Fast forward to today… it’s been 30+ years designing various aircraft structures at different aerospace manufacturers across five countries. Now’s the time for a different challenge and here I am.
Craig De Boos
I was born in Australia but I’ve lived all over the world. I joined the Australian Navy at 17, specializing as an Aerospace Engineer. When I retired, I moved to the US to be closer to my wife’s family and jumped at the opportunity to join Beta and combine my love of aviation and new technology development! I have three boys who keep me very busy, but when I have time, I love all things to do with the water, including diving & sailing.
Busara Hall
Busara recently graduated from Lehigh University, receiving a BA in Economics with minors in Data Science and Mandarin Chinese. He is excited to assist the Supply Chain team this summer with his creative thinking, entrepreneurial drive, and quantitive background. In his spare time, he loves playing guitar, hiking, swimming, traveling, and snowboarding.
Shahmeer Patel
With a Bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering, a Master’s in Engineering Management, and a passion for aviation, manufacturing, and streamlining processes, Shahmeer brings his knowledge and experience to BETA’s Production team.
Sarah Tabor
Sarah is a Data Scientist at BETA and thrilled to be contributing to a more sustainable future through electric aviation. Originally a midwesterner, Sarah moved east to pursue her master’s degree at the University of Vermont. In her free time you can find her staying active through skiing, rock climbing, running, or cycling, curled up with a book, or trying a new recipe.
Jaimie Ammon
I am a multimedia artist attending Champlain College with a passion for tech art and 3D modeling. Using my programming and game development background, as well as my artistic talents, I hope to make an impact in the tech world and leave my mark.
Pandora Down
I am a mechanical engineer from Boulder CO working on the Beta composites team.
Keith Roseberry
Keith has a BS in Computer Engineering and a MS in Software Engineering. He has been working in aerospace and embedded software his entire career, including 25 years at Collins Aerospace where he was a Software Engineering Technical Fellow. His experience includes safety-critical embedded development, airworthiness certification, team leadership, and project management roles. In his free time, Keith enjoys mountain biking, trail running, and spending time anywhere outdoors.
Grady Corkum
I am a battery data analytics engineer and recently graduated from UVM, with a B.S. in Biomedical Engineering and a minor in Computer Science. I was an offensive midfielder for the UVM Men’s Lacrosse Team in my four years. My passion for aviation started in 2020 during my first summer as an intern here at BETA. In my free time, I loves to swim, ski, surf, and spend time with my dogs.
Arwen Costello
Arwen is a ongoing third-year Computer Science and Math Dual Major who is very excited to be working at BETA on the charge team. She is very excited to learn how to fly and to get to know everyone on the team.
Eli Smith
Eli is a rising Senior pursuing a Computer Science degree at UVM. He is excited to be supporting the software team as an intern and can’t wait to take to the skies in flight training. You may find Eli hiking in the mountains or running through Burlington if there isn’t snow on the ground. Otherwise, look for his tracks in the backcountry!
John Knapp
John’s experience spans the entire end-to-end business process for highly engineered complex products. He enjoys building high-performance teams that can create innovative solutions that exceed customer expectations and set industry standards of performance. John’s wife is from VT and they were lucky enough to move back to the Green Mountain State 25 years ago to raise their two children. When he is not taking on large DIY projects around the house you can find him boating on Lake Champlain, kayaking, hiking, or walking their yellow lab in the woods. John and his family also enjoy traveling and seeking out new experiences in new places.
Arturo Valdes
I’m a seasoned engineer with a passion for aerospace safety. Originally from Chile, I found my second home in Montreal’s aerospace hub in Canada. Having worked with renowned companies like CAE, Bombardier, Airbus and Lilium, I have gained invaluable experience in certifying complex systems and software. I’m proud to contribute to the advancement of aviation technology and the safe integration of complex systems in BETA Technologies aircraft programs.
Kevin Shane
I have been involved in aviation/aerospace for about 20 years and hold an aeronautical science degree from Embry Riddle. After my MBA, I worked at Gulfstream Aerospace for 5 years. I relocated back to Ohio where I took a position with Energizer and then UC Health. In joining BETA, I’m grateful to be back in the industry I truly love.
Remy Schulz
I graduated from Champlain Valley High School and was a summer job shadow at BETA before joining as an Intern in 2023. I study Industrial Engineering at TU Eindhoven in the Netherlands and plan to graduate in 2026.
Eslam Eid
I grew up in Egypt. I have a background in architecture, and a passion for technology, design, and fixing what’s broken. In my off time I enjoy traveling and trying new cuisines.
Shane Bluto
Born and raised in Vermont, Shane has been lucky enough to chase his passion for high technology manufacturing while staying close to friends and family in his home state. A graduate of Vermont Tech and UVM, Shane loves that he is able to be part of his community while working in an industry that he is passionate about. If not at work you’ll probably find him in the woods, or on the water.
Amine Ben Haj Ali
Amine Ben Haj Ali is a senior aerodynamicist expert in Computational Fluid Dynamics calculation loop. He has led continuous initiatives for improving aircraft high-lift design analysis and optimization. He has expertise in aeroelasticity, ditching analysis, loads calculation, stability & control, and scientific computing. In addition, he developed an automated system that reduces mesh generation time from days to hours. Dr. Ben Haj Ali has a Ph.D. in Engineering and M.S. in Mechanical Engineering from École de technologie supérieure, Montréal.
Ricardo Aoyama
As an experienced aircraft certification specialist, I am thrilled to contribute to Beta Technologies Path to certification. In my free time, I like to be with family and friends and exploring new places. Go BETA!
Chad Nichols
Code name ‘Ice Bear,’ Chad has nearly 15 years of leadership experience deploying complex renewable energy projects, managing sustainable organizational growth, and leading national and global procurement efforts. A product of the Midwest and Vermont based since 2008, Chad has a passion for EV’s, was a FAA Part 107 drone pilot, completed an international master’s degree during the pandemic, and attended Space Camp after it. Outside of work, he can be found on a tennis court or a little league baseball field and usually blasting yacht rock much to his family’s enjoyment.
Louis-Charles Forcier
Louis-Charles is specialized is structural analysis of composite structures. He likes to ride his bike to go to work all year long. In his leisure time, he plays the guitar, read books, and go camping.
Derek Dobrydney
Derek will be focusing his energy on the Quality Management Systems at Beta. He has spent the last 20 years in the aviation MRO industry as a Mechanical Engineer and Quality Lead with a focus on FAA regulatory compliance. Outside of the office, you can find Derek somewhere in the woods skiing, mountain biking, or hiking with his wife and quirky golden retriever.
Mark Baker
I grew up in the flight path of Plattsburgh AFB watching B-52’s. Needed out of town, joined the AF to fix planes and see the world. Once I had my fill of that, I switched to critical power systems and traveled around the US. I somehow ended up back where I started and one day, I looked up and saw a funky-looking quiet plane and thought – “That’s awesome, I need to look into that”, and here I am. When not working, I enjoy wasting time making/recycling things in the garage, going to concerts in summer, and skiing in winter. Fins Up.
Natalie Aulicino
Natalie is a battery engineer with experience in advanced li-ion batteries. From research and development in alternative cell chemistries, to test and analysis, she has developed a thorough understanding of their electrochemical inner-workings. Beyond batteries, Natalie partakes in backpacking, biking, snowboarding, and scuba diving.
Aadhithya Rajasekaran
I am a Mechanical Engineer with a background in composite materials. My master’s thesis was on Fiber Steering using the AFP process. I hope to apply my knowledge about composite materials and help make ALIA as light and as strong as possible.
Vincent Hayes
Hello Beta family, a few things about my family; my wife and I have fostered rescue dogs for at least 15 years, we have seen many dogs come and go through our home. I enjoy riding my motorcycle through the back roads of VT. I was a referee for basketball for 25 years, high school and college. I enjoy going out for dinner on weekends!!
Nate Eastman
Born and raised Vermonter I have been a machinist for 20 +/- 0004 years When I am not working I enjoy spending time in the mountains hiking and snowshoeing. I enjoy live music, creating art, Helping others and teaching my 2 kids how to be good humans.
Maria Benavente
Spanish by birth, she moved to Switzerland 12 years ago to get used to the cold winters before moving to Montreal in 2014. Maria explored her passion for composite materials during her Ph.D. at Polytechnique Montreal. She has over 10 years of experience developing composite materials for the aerospace and automotive industries. When not at work, she can be found at the park playing with her two daughters and building sand castles.
Kyle Maready
I grew up in rural NC working with my dad on random projects around the house/farm. I’ve always enjoyed working with my hands and problem solving. The Aerospace world has always been a passion of mine which is why I hold a BS in Aerospace Engineering and a MS in Mechanical Engineering from NCState.
Nathan Weil
From hummingbirds to Saturn Vs, flying things have always fascinated Nathan. He designed, built, and flew RC aircraft at his family farm in Missouri, learning from crashes and soaring above horses. After attending Olin College of Engineering and designing autonomous planes and rocket parts, Nathan is thrilled to be a part of the BETA family building a sustainable future for aviation. He enjoys photography, wood working, 3D conceptual design, building robots, and starting even more hobbies.
Arunesh Vijayakumar
Arunesh is an aviation engineer with more than a decade of experience in the industry. He holds a Master’s Degree in Aviation Safety and Aircraft Airworthiness from ENAC and ISAE-SUPAERO, Toulouse. Having worked in technical publications and certification of commercial, general, and electric aircraft, Arunesh loves to make the seemingly daunting task of aircraft documentation simple and interesting. Outside of work, he can be found strolling around town looking for interesting food joints or toy stores to add to his Hot Wheel and Scale Model collection.
Frederic Gachet
I’ve lived on four continents and I believe in people diversity. My background as a scout, rugby player, and kung-fu artist gave me a taste for effort and teamwork. My interest in airplanes led me to aeronautical engineering studies and now I’ve 20-ish years of experience in aircraft structures, mainly in fatigue and in damage tolerance of metallic parts. I’ve participated in the development/certification of some of the latest commercial and business aircraft: A340, A400M, A350, A320 NEO, CSeries 100/300, and Global 7500/8000. For years, I was looking for ways to conciliate my expertise with sustainable activities, and, with BETA, it’s a done deal. Eventually, I practice running, snowboarding, and hiking. I’m a father of three teens.
Gregory Fricke
Greg loves baseball, old cars, new and old aircraft, snowboarding, climbing, hiking, his partner Nikki, and their dogs and cats. Born and raised on Maui, he has worked with telescopes, satellites, frickin’ laser beams, robot swarms, and helicopters. A Mechanical Engineering alumnus of Caltech (BS) and Duke (MS, Ph.D.), he’s a certified nerd who is passionate about our sustainable future. He maintains a backyard garden and has plans for an electric conversion of his beloved 1968 Mercury Cougar.
Jaimie Ammon
I am a multimedia artist attending Champlain College with a passion for tech art and 3D modeling. Using my programming and game development background, as well as my artistic talents, I hope to make an impact in the tech world and leave my mark.
Tim O’Day
I live in South Burlington with my wife, Michele, and 2 sons, Harrison (10) and Camden (8). We are an on-the-go family staying busy with baseball, hockey, parkour, and other outdoor activities. My wife works at the Greater Burlington YMCA. I have worked at Burton, VIP, and Seventh Generation over the last 18 years in various supply chain roles. Looking forward to continuing the sustainability journey in the transportation field!
Finn Dority
I’m a math nerd who realized that computer science is just applied mathematics for people who don’t want to be physicists. When I’m not messing around with trying to get displays to render right, I’m usually trying to break the logic of a video game or putting off reading whatever fiction I found interesting enough to check out from my local libraries. Also the voice of the internal CAS aural messaging system, so if you’re a human factors test pilot, you’ll get to hear me telling you that you’re way overspeed. Cheers!
Steve DiStasi
Steve is an embedded software engineer with 15+ years of experience developing sensor systems for structural, machine, and environmental monitoring applications. Outside the office, Steve loves playing soccer, cooking tasty foods, woodworking, and getting outside with his dogs.
Daniel Simon
Danny is an Aerospace Engineer that has 20 years in aviation working primary structure. He has worked on composite and metallic structure to help certify two new aircraft programs and is looking to adding BETA to that list. He loves his family and likes woodworking and playing sports.
Arlo Pouliot
I grew up on a dairy farm and know firsthand why sustainability is so important. I also strongly believe in taking care of our resources, the environment, and each other. I spent the last 20 years in the ski industry in Mountain Operations, grooming ski trails, and maintaining equipment. For the past 6 years, I had the opportunity to lead an award-winning team while finding efficiencies, delivering a consistent product, and working to make the ski industry more sustainable. I am excited for this new chapter where I get to live yet another dream and help to work to build a sustainable future for generations to come.
Hieu McElroy
Hieu is a materials engineer with 10 years of experience in the aerospace (NASA, Blue Origin) & chemicals (Dow) industries. She worked on applications including hypersonic vehicles, liquid rocket engines, automotive, constructions, and packaging. A sustainability enthusiast, she developed sustainable materials solutions by lightweighting or improving energy efficiency. A lifelong learner, she’s expanding her horizon in AI and manufacturing. She enjoys spending time outside work with her family and volunteering at STEM & community events.
Adam Hadlock
I am a father, a builder/maker, a hockey player, a motorcyclist/gear head, and an outdoorsman.
Collin DeWitt
Pilot and DevOps guy. Long ago I was puttering around in a Cessna 172P, and I’m thrilled to be back around aircraft again. Towards the end of my first job as a Software engineer, I got fed up with the issues we were facing with application outages and performance problems and decided to focus on trying to pick those issues apart; I guess that’s how you become an SRE! I’m always happy to talk about all things DevOps or aviation, so if you ever want to chat about either, swing on by!
Christian Filion
After a few years in the military, I’ve always worked with materials engineering either behind a high-resolution microscope or supporting various special processes (plating, anodization, heat treating, surface enhancements, etc.) or by leading teams focused on making things happen. The various environments were the electronics industry, the stainless steel mill, the automotive, the polymer, and the aerospace industry.
Julien Lek
I am an aerospace engineer with 2 decades in structural engineering that had worked on 4 aircraft programs (Airbus A380, A35, Series/A220 and Global 7500). I am eager to work on the next chapter of aviation with sustainable products to connect people.
Braden Thiel
Farmboy turned engineer, I’m originally from Wisconsin and have picked up a BS and MS in electrical engineering. When I’m not at work I can be found in the garden, workshop, or hiking trails.
Anna Svagzdys
I am an electrical engineer with multidisciplinary experience in computer vision, robotics, and prototype development. I enjoy creative problem-solving and the never-quite-predictable process of making new ideas into realities. When I’m not writing code or laying out PCBs, I can be found mountain biking, dirt biking, or skiing; working on bikes or skis; or recovering from injuries sustained while biking or skiing.
Casey Purcell
My professional background is in project management with 15 years of working in the Solar industry on everything from small 10-panel resi systems to 5MW commercial systems. When I am not working I enjoy chasing my kids around, doing woodworking projects, and hiking/camping around the northeast.
Ryan Nielsen
Ryan is a born and raised Vermonter. He has spent the last 15 years working in the Vermont technology scene as an electrical engineer with a keen interest in PCB design. When he is not at his desk, he can be found tinkering in his small garage woodshop, traveling to his next ultimate frisbee game, or walking his two dogs.
Austin Myers
I have spent the last 13 years learning, breaking, building, and improving anything that is composite related. I have been managing different aspects of Composite Manufacturing for about 11 years, prior to that I managed retail for about 7 years. In my free time, I enjoy time with the family, home improvements, and working on my wife and I’s classic trucks. I am excited to be joining Beta to move forward with their manufacturing capabilities.
Mark Fronhofer
A maker of things by day and a CNC machinist by night, Mark is always on the lookout for the next cool part—be it for the aerospace industry or a child’s toy; be it made of metal, wood, plastic, or bone; be it for a Ducati Condor or an Antonov AN2—from titanium nosecones to dancers engraved on a hammered dulcimer, all are fodder for the CNC. When not restoring an airplane at KFSO or out adventuring with his daughters, Mark will be making cool parts at Beta.
Brayden Duggan
Brayden was born and raised in Vermont and studied business and accounting at St. Michael’s. Outside of work, he enjoys spending time in the mountains snowboarding and exploring, learning new hobbies, and spending time near the water.
Jason Danovitch
Jason studied materials engineering at McGill and developed a passion for aerospace from his prior experience as an M&P Engineer at Bombardier and Airbus Canada. He’s stoked to now be a part of the BETA team in striving for a more sustainable future. When not working, Jason enjoys spending his time playing or writing music, playing video games, skiing, hiking, mixing cocktails, and complaining about the heat in summer.
Claudio Culetto
Since I graduated from Aerospace Engineering in Belgium, I have been working on aircraft structure analysis and certification at several places around the world. I believe passion, open-mindedness, respect, humor, and professionalism are an excellent recipe for success. I am a big fan of nature, the outdoors, and geography. My favorite sports are hiking, all sorts of skiing, swimming, biking, and playing soccer (or trying to). I feel lucky to join this amazing project.
Andrei Babyuk
I am a software engineer and have been writing code for more than 40 years for a wide variety of applications. My latest interest is in embedded systems, plus I am very passionate about aviation and making it sustainable. Originally from Russia, I have been in Vermont for 30 years and consider myself a Vermonter. Without a doubt, BETA is a perfect company for me to utilize my experience and contribute to a green future for our planet.
Hamza Arshad
Hamza is a recent grad from the University of Toronto working with the battery team. Before BETA, he worked in the automotive industry testing pumps and has a stints working with aero and hyperloop design teams. Passionate about tinkering with new stuff and maintaining an awesome world for future generations. Outside of work, you might find him hiking and exploring the backcountry.
Seth Armstrong
Seth is a native Vermonter who has been interested in aviation since a very young age. He comes from an avionics installation background and has worked on aircraft from as early as the 1930s to brand new from the factory. He enjoys traveling and experiencing new sights and cultures. On weekends you may find him tinkering in the garage, reading history, or spending some time with his wonderful niece and nephews.
Hunter Spannaus
As a dedicated ‘life-long learner,’ I enjoy endeavors that allow me to develop new skills, enhance existing talents, and recognize areas of weakness; allowing me to grow as a professional and individual. My desire to learn and passion for sustainable living has lead me to work in a wide range of fields including carpentry, agriculture, and outdoor education around the country. My wife and I settled in Vermont in 2020 and had our first child in 2021. Nowadays you can find us chasing him around and tinkering on our 4-acre central Vermont homestead.
Jordan Dexter
I was born and raised in Barre, Vermont. I started working in the avionics field 8 years ago after joining the Navy. After experiencing active duty life and getting the opportunity to travel, I returned to Vermont 3 years ago. I shifted into the civilian world of avionics, while also transferring to the Vermont Air National Guard. In my free time, you can find me watching sports with my dog, playing board games, adventuring outdoors, and always striving to stay active. Let’s go Celtics!
Kevin Provost
Kevin is a helicopter CFI and aviation enthusiast, as well as the founder and owner of Monadnock Choppers, a flight school in Keene, NH. Kevin is also an A&P/IA and a Vermont native.
Victor Zaccardo
Victor is a mechanical engineer by trade (UNC Charlotte and NC State) and enjoys creating technical solutions to complex electromechanical problems. Outside of work, you can find him underneath his (small) fleet of cars from the 90s, disk golfing, and chasing after the dogs he and his wife foster.
Taylor Sirois
I was born and raised in Vermont and graduated from Advanced Welding Institue in 2017. I found a passion for welding back in High School and I’ve stuck with it ever since. I like to describe myself as a fun, spirited individual who’s always up for a challenge. If I’m not at work, you can find me adventuring with my pup.
Andrew Shallcross
Andy is a manufacturing expert specializing in high-volume battery and aerospace production operations. He joins BETA after having worked at both Tesla and SpaceX. Andy is honored to join the team and contribute to BETA’s unique and highly impactful mission.
Matt Riley
Matt is proud to call Vermont home for the past 20+ years. Having worked in healthcare, renewables, finance, and restaurants, Matt is thrilled to join this incredible collective of people making real and lasting change in the world. Matt is the dad of three brilliant, strong women and married to the funniest performer in Vermont. Oh, and he likes to ride bikes.
Gabriel Penner
Gabriel is an Aerospace Engineer with a degree from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. He has a passion for flight, electric vehicles, and walkable city design. Outside of work, he enjoys spending time listening to music, camping, mountain biking, and building models.
Mike Peckinpaugh
Michael is originally from California and moved to Vermont in 2012. He’s always tinkering with electronics and builds digital pinball machines and arcade machines for fun. Outside of work, he enjoys outdoor activities such as kayaking and fishing.
Trevor Mitchell
I love a challenge, and I am usually the first to volunteer for a new project or give a helping hand. Outside of work, I strive to be active, and outside. Some of my favorite pastimes include the gym, running, hiking, skiing, hunting, and ATV riding.
Mason Maeder
Born and raised in Vermont, Mason has a passion for anything mechanical. As a graduate of Clarkson University with a Mechanical Engineering degree and a minor in Materials Engineering, he strives for innovation. When not working on a vehicle with an engine in the garage, Mason is found outdoors in the woods skiing, hiking, or camping.
William Guild
I’m a cabinetmaker and woodworker with a background in business and economics.
Jonathan Girard
Jonathan grew up in South Burlington Vermont. He loves the four seasons (not the hotel) and is often found on, in, or underwater, whether fresh, salty, or frozen. Having spent 5 years engineering new construction submarines, he is happy to be back in the Green Mountain State working on much faster and lighter machines flying through a much less viscous fluid.
Sarah Colebaugh
Sarah has a BS and MS in Electrical Engineering from North Carolina State University. She has experience in hardware design and board-level testing for aerospace products and is excited by technical challenges. When not at work, she can be found enjoying the great outdoors.
Eric Senecal
Eric is a born and raised Vermonter with a background in various manufacturing environments. He is currently pursuing his engineering degree at Vermont Tech. In his spare time, he likes running, kayaking, working on cars, playing video games, or just working around the house.
Cody Nary
Have worked as an Electronics Manufacturing Technician for almost 10 years, and prior to that was a Microminiature Repairman in the Marine Corps. I have completed my Associate’s Degree in Electrical Engineering from VTC while working full-time.
Hollis Munson
Born and raised in the hills of Vermont I love to explore new places and find myself in the middle of a new misadventure. I started flying at 15 and earned my CPL and CFI certificates by the time I was 18 through Vermont Flight Academy. When I’m not flying as an instructor or studying for my next rating you’ll find me on a solo adventure out in the woods or skiing anywhere there is good snow.
David Molnar
Dave has three modes: design it, build it, or break it. You can often find him doing one of these three things in his shop. Whether it be a motorcycle, a custom car, and (hopefully soon) his own airplane(s); he’s always stoked to build something rad.
Evan Estep
Evan has a degree in aerospace engineering and experience designing and certifying integrated avionics systems. He has a life-long passion for aviation and earned his pilot’s license after graduating from college. Outside of work, you can find him enjoying time outside or working in the garage on his latest project.
Luke Wheeler
My name is Luke Wheeler. I was born and raised in Denver, Colorado, but now live in the beautiful town of Stowe, Vermont. I have a passion for aviation, motorsports, skiing, cycling, and furniture design. I believe that good design comes from simplicity of form, honesty of materials, and the purity of function. I take pride in my attention to detail as a craftsman and I love tinkering with just about anything with a motor.
Shahmeer Patel
A Grad Student at UVM pursuing a Master’s in Engineering Management. Shahmeer has a passion for manufacturing, streamlining processes and maximizing efficiency and has joined as a Manufacturing Intern.
Gary Martin
Gary is an aerospace engineer with a Master’s degree from North Carolina State University. He has experience designing and integrating electromechanical systems for the industrial and aerospace markets, and greatly enjoys solving challenging problems. When not at work, Gary can usually be found doing something related to music.
Daniel Kakaley
Dan is an mechanical engineering graduate from NC State with a decade of experience doing flight testing and designing actuators and sensors for US Army Blackhawk and Chinook helicopters. He’s looking forward to applying his skillset to the electric aviation industry. In his free time, you can find him wrangling his kids, hiking, or watching rockets fly in the night sky.
Brian Dunkiel
As General Counsel, Brian is responsible for protecting Beta’s legal interests. He has served as a trusted legal advisor to clients pursuing projects, products, and missions that are truly pioneering — demanding an innovative and creative approach to meeting their legal needs. Brian co-founded Dunkiel Saunders, a law firm that was one of the first certified as a B-Corporation. Brian has a fundamental rule in his legal practice: never give legal advice before the day’s first cup of coffee.
Cormick Dineen
Cormick is a lifelong Vermonter who has worked in accounting and finance in various industries for the past decade. Outside of work he enjoys movies with his partner and spending time with his family.
Chip Clifton
Systems Engineer with a focus on Aerospace Electronic Software and Hardware development and certification and a passion for problem solving, leadership, and people development. Let’s get things done!!
Thea Wurzburg
Thea grew up in VT’s Northeast Kingdom and has been closely engaged in VT and national politics for some time. She worked for then-Rep. Peter Welch for over 6 years in his DC and VT offices and on the campaign trail. She most recently helped deliver an overwhelming victory for the Senator as a senior member of his campaign. She has a love of all things outdoors and lives in Winooski with her fiancé and cat. Thea is passionate about creating a more sustainable future as part of BETA’s public affairs team!
Russell Altieri
Russ has 30 years of experience as an aerospace electro-mechanical systems engineer. ME by training at Virginia Tech and NCSU. He has broad experience in designing aerospace systems including electronics architecture, motor controls, sensing, electronics packaging, digital signal processing, algorithms, and embedded model-based software development. When he is not working, he’s probably at the beach or on a boat.
Clay Kaufmann
Clay was born in California, and migrated east to go to the University of Vermont for his undergrad and master’s degrees in Computer Science where he discovered how much he enjoyed software development! Outside of the software field, you can find Clay taking photos, riding his bike, or playing tennis.
Ronald Allen
Ronnie is a Michigander. Moving to Vermont with his fiancé, Ariel, and Jax-the-Cat. Ronnie has spent the last 3+ years managing high-voltage inverters and power conversion modules for the Ford F-150 Lightning and Mustang Mach-E. We are most excited to make new friends, mountain bike, and boat on Lake Champlain.
Eric Giroux
Eric is a proud father of three wonderful boys and the owner of a German Shepherd. He has 23 years of experience working in the aerospace industry for different companies in rotorcraft and aircraft. He was able to gain extensive experience in the design of metallic/composite structures, systems, and flight test support. Always in search of new challenges, he is excited and happy to join the BETA team.
Matthew Lorence
Careers in aerospace welding, aftermarket automotive, and machining in a nuclear-certified machine shop have made Matt just dangerous enough at home to rebuild the steel bow of his houseboat, motorcycle engines, and various cars. His hobbies include performance driving, precision sports, and wandering around in the woods.
Sam Hooker
Sam’s start as a student of ecology accidentally prepared him for a career built on understanding connected systems: first in constructing them, and then in defending them. Years spent in the service of research university information security honed his understanding of a fundamental challenge: How to balance freedom of inquiry and experimentation with the security demands of a connected world. When not pursuing infosec for innovators, Sam can be found driving his family nuts with his nutty schemes and performing music with his unruly friends.
Chris McLaughlin
Chris is on the Supply Chain team and has spent his career in aerospace R&D. He came to Vermont from the mountains of Washington and brought all of his outdoor hobbies with him. Chris enjoys airplanes, motorcycles, campfires, skiing, and clean cable management.
James Broughton
James is a mechanical engineer with a Masters’s degree from North Carolina State. He has experience in static and dynamic structural analysis for a variety of products ranging from bottle caps to grenade launchers. When at home, James enjoys playing with his son, running, and visiting state parks.
Alex L’Ecuyer
Alex has been a lover of anything aviation related since childhood. In his free time, you can find him mountain biking, building bike jumps, snowboarding, and woodworking.
Rafi Vanlian
The aerospace engineer has gone vegetarian, inching towards a more sustainable future one bite at a time. With over 10 years of experience in the aerospace industry, a love for nature, and a passion for cooking and outdoor activities, Rafi decided to realign his professional career with his personal values by contributing to a cleaner and more sustainable environment with BETA Technologies.
David Wisell
David was born and raised in Vermont! He joined the U.S. Navy at 18 years of age, followed by stints in human services, supply chain management, and years of manufacturing experience. He served his small town as a volunteer EMT for over a decade and loves to tend a flock of sheep with his wife on their farm in Northern Vermont.
Maria Eduarda Morandi
Maria is a Mechanical Engineer with a concentration in Aeronautics. During her time at University, she spent most days in the design teams’ shop working on the off-road vehicle concept and build. She has over 5 years of experience designing systems for flight simulators and is now thrilled to work on designs that will help propel aviation electrification. Born in Brazil, she embraced the Canadian winters many years ago and now calls Montreal her home. She loves traveling, being outdoors, and F1 races.
Malakai Valgean
Hello my name is Malakai and I love to be inside watching movies
Jerzy Krolikowski
Bitten by aviation bug at a very young age when I first saw a MiG-15 up close. Ever since I never stopped reading about, watching, building, and flying airplanes, both models and real stuff, and in virtual or in actual airspace. Earned my Aerospace Engineering degree from Ryerson University in Toronto, soon after went to get my PPL, and for the past 25 years, I have been working in the aerospace industry across Canada, designing, stressing, and fixing aircraft – metallic bushplane, 4-engine large transport, all-composite VLJ, passenger, business and military jets. Now I’m proud to add an eVTOL to this list.
Jacob Borg
Jacob has experience in regulatory compliance and is excited to be at BETA during the birth of the electric aircraft industry! He is new to Vermont and is looking forward to taking up ice fishing as a hobby.
Thomas Couillard
After studying Mechanical Engineering for years, Tommy recently obtained an associate’s degree in General Engineering Technology while also working full-time. He has a lot of interest and passion for new technology, 3D printing, and electronics. Now looking for a new challenge. He’s looking forward to being a part of the team as a learner and a contributor.
Sean Pelkey
Sean is a local Vermonter that loves the outdoors and has worked across several industries. He has held several positions in quality and product development for over 25 years. Beta is a great opportunity to capitalize on my experience and support giving back to the environment while working with a great team.
William Uhlir
Native Vermonter, excited to be part of a concept coming to fruition in the Green Mountains! Bring 16 years of manufacturing experience servicing motors and pumps for the Chemical, Nuclear, and Power Industries. Army Veteran, led a squad through a successful deployment to Manda Bay, Kenya, securing Magagoni Airfield. Father to three wonderful children. We enjoy exploring the beauty of VT. Hiking, fishing, and swimming in the cool mountain streams and rivers. You can also find us in Boston, catching a Sox game at Fenway.
Gail Stephen
25+ years in Aerospace as a Materials & Processes engineer in both fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft. Gail’s experience ranges from design phases, support to manufacturing facilities and suppliers, completions of business jets, and in-service support of commercial aircraft. Gail is an avid soccer player and enjoys playing golf,yoga, reading mystery novels, and baking.
Sander Reuland
I grew up in Holland and lived close to the Amsterdam airport, so as a kid I used to bike to the runways to see the planes. I wasn’t interested in flying them; the aircraft and technology attracted me, so I became an aerospace engineer. Working in aerospace took me to a couple of places around the world, to eventually settle with my family in Montreal. I also like bbq-ing, road trips, and snow shoveling my driveway
Mark Rakowitz
Mark received his Dipl.-Ing. in Aircraft Design from the University of Applied Sciences in Aachen, Germany, and his MSc in Aerodynamics from Cranfield University, England. Helping to put more efficient airplanes in the skies for more than 20 years, he is now happy to be part of the electric revolution of flight, working in Aerodynamics and Performance at Beta. When he is not thinking about aircraft design, you can usually find him with his nose in a book, working on or flying his 70ies glider or walking the dog.
David Paradis
David is a Mechanical engineer with expertise in product design, problem-solving, and simulations. Worked for 20 years in aerospace with different OEMs, mostly in the primary structure. At Beta, he is focused on the Wing, Booms, and Empennage section but ready to help anywhere needed. He enjoys family time with the kiddos in his “spare” time.
Robert Cipro
Aviation has been a passion since grade school!… I have over thirty years of experience in the aerospace industry, both in manufacturing and customer support. This includes experience in Regional Jet and Business aircraft, helicopter, and Aero-Engine industries. I also have thirteen years of service with the Canadian Armed Forces. As practical hobbies, I enjoy cooking and discovering the wonderful world of fountain pens…I am proud to be part of the Beta Revolution!…E Tenebris Lux
Saro Chichmanian
Aircraft Maintenance Engineering graduate -> Working with my hands. Mechanical Engineering graduate -> Working with my calculator. Love planes & passionate about creating them. 17+ years in aerospace. Enjoy the humane aspects of our lives, in the arts, discovery, & helping those less fortunate.
Megan Rupert
A former clinician, diagnostician, and researcher in speech and hearing sciences and neurological conditions, Megan has combined her love of science and STEM writing to join the technical writing and documentation team at BETA. Outside of work she enjoys time with her family and friends, biking, baking and playing music way too loudly.
Chris Schimke
Born and raised in Michigan! Learned my love for aircraft from the Airforce where I specialized in Armament Systems for F16, F15 and A10’s. Spent over 10 years with hands-on experience in electrical and mechanical aviation equipment. In my Free time, I enjoy spending time with my family and Building my own lithium battery packs out of recycled materials.
Keith Macchione
Keith moved to VT for an engineering degree at UVM, fell in love with everything here, and never looked back. He spent over 10 years with GMCR/KDP, helping transform the business through revolutionizing past practices and new facilities. Keith loves finding ways to make the impossible possible through leading teams be more functional than the sum of their parts. Otherwise, time is spent biking, skiing, watching things fly, and enjoying everything VT has to offer with his wife, dog, and friends.
Gary Gauvin
Growing up in Europe, sustainability and reusing items from the past is a normal way of life. You are surrounded by the living past every day and reminded that you are just the latest in a long line of people to live in your city. You have an obligation to take good care of your environment for the people who will inherit it after you are gone. I have always loved military aviation as this is where the latest in technology usually is being discovered and implemented. This drives my curiosity in trying to understand the latest technologies and possibilities in aviation. At an early age I got interested in aviation and all the cool aircraft out there. This formed my educational path and gave me a direction and goal to work towards when I was young.
Justin Gallo
Justin studied Mechanical Engineering at the University of Connecticut and is a Uconn Skydiving Team alum. He spent the last two years working for Sikorsky in Stratford, CT, where he supported sustaining programs such as MH-60S and MH-60R, as well as international programs for India, the Republic of Korea, and Singapore. When he’s not skydiving, you can probably find Justin rock climbing or buying more parts for his Onewheel.
Kevin Burns
Kevin is a pilot and engineer with experience in systems engineering, flight test, and aircraft structures. Before Beta, he worked at Boeing supporting the development, testing, and certification of the 777-9, 737-10, P-8, and MQ-25 airplane programs. At the University of Illinois, he led a student club building a homebuilt kit airplane. Outside of work, Kevin likes to ski, bike, run, drink coffee, and fly small airplanes!
Kyle Bruce
Kyle has a BS and MS in mechanical engineering. He brings 15 years of experience in aerospace in both mechanical and software engineering roles.
Ryan Ackley
Ryan joins the team at Beta with 12+ years of experience in Supply Chains. His journey has brought him exposure to hard and soft goods, consumer packaged goods, and dietary supplements. He has lived in MA, VT, CO, VT, TN, and VT again where he has put down roots with his amazing wife and two energetic boys. When not at work Ryan enjoys all the outdoor activities the region has to offer, coaching team sports, working on house projects, and creating things in his workshop.
Timothy Sampair
Graduate in Software Engineering from NCSU, and worked with the National Science Foundation, NOAA Climatic Data Center, Unisys, Oracle, Siemens, and many startups, I have held several titles from development engineer, team lead, director of platform development to CIO. it’s been a fun journey through time
Aditya Joshi
Adi works with the Flight Sciences team in ensuring that Alia is gentle and fun to fly. He likes working on airplanes during the day and dreaming about them at night. He likes to paraglide, fly drones, and play with his dog Pippin.
Bonnie Chaffee
I grew up in the Champlain Valley where I had a love for the outdoors. After college, I worked in aerospace engineering support and my passion for detail and solving problems developed. It no doubt translates to the enjoyment I get when working with creative minds. After a little more than a decade in the consumer products industry, joining Beta is a welcome return to my aerospace roots. When not at work I enjoy being outside, traveling, or spending time with family and friends.
Amy Cooper
Amy supports BETA’s Airworthiness Organization in managing the development, certification, and entry into service for the company’s products. Beginning her career as an engineer at Boeing, Amy got the opportunity to geek out on all things aerospace, working on projects ranging from designing parts for NASA’s SLS rocket to working as an aircraft mechanic to implement solutions that addressed pain points in the 787 build. Prior to joining BETA, Amy was a technology program manager at Bandwidth. In her free time, she enjoys being outside with her dog, traveling, and running.
Kevin Cafferky
Kevin is a lifelong Vermonter and member of the Green Mountain Boys. When he’s not serving with the Air National Guard, he can be found exploring the woods and camping with his family. With 13 years of aircraft electrical systems and aviation program management experience, he’s excited to push the boundaries of aviation!
Mark Chaffee
I was in the Launch Control Center manning the Ground Launch Sequencer console for Space Shuttle launch STS-26R, the first flight after the Challenger accident. I have been a volunteer firefighter for 24 years and am currently
Miguel Turner
Miguel is a software engineer who spent 12 years working on experimental projects in the cybersecurity industry. He grew up in Vermont, Nepal, and Guatemala, before serving as a Peace Corps volunteer in Honduras. Now settled, he enjoys all manner of time spent with his family and huskies.
Dan Sloan
Dan is a test engineer working on the propulsion team. He previously spent the past 7 years working for Sikorsky Aircraft testing mechanical and structural components. He is excited to take on the unique challenge of testing cutting-edge electric motors. In his free time, he enjoys running, cycling, and spending time with his family.
Jody Dunklee
Starting her career as an electronics technician, Jody followed her interests and aptitude through a series of manufacturing, engineering, and application-focused roles, with multiple stops at the textbooks along the way. She has now found herself exactly where she wants to be – using data, analysis, process, and communication to articulate how technology can be employed sustainably, and for sustainability, to change the world for the better and preserve this enchanted and glorious planet we call home.
Mario Champagne
I was born in Joliette a small town in Quebec. I have two great sons and a fantastic wife. I studied civil engineering and aerospace design engineering at ENA (Ecole National d’aérotechnique). That brings me to over 23 years in the aerospace industry, having the chance to perform Structural, mechanical, system, and repair design of aircraft and rotorcraft, from new development to sustaining. I’m always looking for new adventures so I’m happy to start this one!
Henry John
I’m a recent graduate of UVM with a mechanical engineering major and art minor. I like things that work, mechanically and aesthetically speaking. I recently finished a project designing and building a theater for a dance performance in a submerged granite quarry, complete with moving stages and a floating audience platform. Otherwise, I like to tinker, draw, and play guitar in my free time.
Simon Racine
Simon is an aerospace engineer with more than 9 years of experience acquired during the certification of the A220 and G7500 and who’s devoted his career mainly to composite structure stress analysis, certification, and testing. He’s excited to work on this very novel aircraft structure and can’t wait to say “Mission Accomplished!” and take his first trip on the ALIA to travel from Montreal to Burlington.
Tyler Collins
Tyler is a mechanical engineer on the battery team. Previously, he spent 5 years at Rivian designing many different aspects of the battery pack starting from a blank sheet. Now that he has conquered making batteries drive, he is very excited to help make batteries fly. In his free time, Tyler can be found chasing his kids, snowboarding, mountain biking, camping, or golfing.
Eric (Odie) Routh
A long-time “computer guy” who is driven by how things work and how to improve them. This covers everything from how people work together to cloud automation to continuous iteration for solving problems whether it’s in health care, content software, social justice, renewable energy, or aviation. Outside of work, he is probably looking for his coffee or enjoying good food and adventure with his family.
Christopher Miller
Chris is Ramblin Wreck from Georgia Tech with a degree in Civil Engineering. He has spent the last four years designing and building airports across the Southeast. He recently earned his Private Certificate and currently flies with the GA Tech Flying Club. He is working with the charging infrastructure team and loves the future of sustainable flying. When not working or flying, he enjoys sailing his boat, hiking, backpacking, and going to breweries with his friends.
Kevin Tait
Kevin is originally from Chicago but has worked across the country with a range of aerospace companies, doing everything from experimental propulsion testing to fixing up aircraft. He loves exploring and working with anything that combines different engineering skills, and can never “wear too many hats.” His apartment and spare time are filled with DIY electronics, robots, custom PCs, Legos, and even a few 3D Printers, so life at Beta will never feel like work to him.
Hunter Leonard
My name is Hunter Leonard and I’m a tinkerer at heart. Powered by caffeine and the drive to make cool things, I spend my time building and restoring motorcycles to modifying kids’ power wheels, and racing them. When I’m not making things in my garage, you can find me racing motocross in the summer and skiing the slopes in the winter. Never half-ass anything, only use full ass.
Joffrey Renaud
Native from France, I grew up on a farm. I wanted to be a fighter pilot in the Navy but finally became an Engineer. I discovered the wonders of composite materials during my Ph.D. at Polytechnique Montreal. I played with these materials on aircraft engine fan cases, race bike frames, EVTOL motor blades, and personal watercraft Hull.
Roman Guzman
Roman Guzman has over 12 years of experience in aviation. I have held several roles throughout my career including aircraft furniture builder, buyer, strategic sourcing, and project manager. I have extensive knowledge of supplier development, negotiation skills, and 3D model-based parts. My biggest achievement was leading a team on a new sourcing application for a Fortune 500 company. In my off time, I enjoy family time and golf.
Matthew Visser
Matthew is an intern working on the battery team. He is currently studying Mechatronics Engineering at the University of Waterloo, where he also serves as a mechanical lead for the Waterloo Aerial Robotics Group. In his free time, Matthew enjoys skiing, boating, climbing, and listening to a little bit too much Taylor Swift.
Heather Woods
Heather’s first internship involved analyzing black box data from USAF jets. She then spent a decade upgrading electronic warfare systems on USN submarines, before pivoting to professional ballroom dancer and teacher. Joining BETA is a welcome return to the beginning of the circle. In her free time, she enjoys hiking, climbing, sewing, silversmithing, and learning anything new.
Jonathan Schwartz
Jonathan has a devotion to hard work and successful project management. He has prior experience in the semiconductor and injection molding industries but is now excited to apply his skills to his passion for flight. In his free time, he enjoys cooking for friends and family, fixing things around the house, and watching the Eagles beat up the Cowboys! Jonathan loves taking advantage of Vermont summers and is usually near a lake building sand castles or fishing with his son Ben and wife Leslie.
Alain Richer
Alain is a mechanical engineer with a passion for aerospace working for over 10 years in commercial and business aircraft. Besides things that fly, he loves cooking, karate, and hiking.
Quim Martinez Vidal
Quim is an Aerospace Engineer with a Masters’s in Aeronautics. At BETA, he is part of the System Safety Engineering Team
Jerry Ricciotti
Jerry loves pointing his camera at interesting people and things. He thinks BETA is the most interesting thing he’s ever pointed a camera at.
Patrick Reilly
Patrick is a multidisciplinary engineer with a passion for finding creative solutions to complex problems. Prior to BETA, Patrick obtained his bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from Lafayette College and spent 8 years at Sikorsky Aircraft developing novel active vibration control systems for helicopters. In his free time, he enjoys tree skiing, foraging, video editing, and tinkering. When he isn’t lost in the woods on the slopes of Mount Mansfield, you can usually find him at home with his wife, Melissa, and their two cats, Michael and Jan.
Anand Arya
Anand has close to two decades of structural analysis, testing, and certification experience spanning 5 distinctive programs (Passenger, Military & Business jets) across 3 continents. He is happy to share his expertise to certify Alia and beyond.
Ali Tarabay
Ali has experience in aircraft design with a focus on Flight Sciences and Aircraft Performance. He has also worked in the development of critical and complex data systems. Ali is very interested in Machine Learning and Data Science in aircraft design applications. Outside of work, he enjoys hiking, climbing and all other things outdoor!
Julio Checa
Julio is a mechanical engineer from Montreal joining the Cabin System group. In past experiences, he has worked for Dassault Systems, Bombardier, and Mitsubishi Spicejet, always in the cabin interiors. He also developed some experience in electrical transportation working for Lion Electric where they build electrical buses and trucks. Besides aviation, Julio a big soccer fan, and try’s to pass those two passions to his kids by doing aircraft spotting and teaching all he know’s about soccer!
Kyle Wybranowski
Kyle is joining the Mobile App team. He previously worked on one of the highest-grossing apps on the app store and is now eager to work with cutting-edge sustainable technology. When he’s not coding, he’s making music, tending his garden, or enjoying some local food.
Curtis Libby
Curtis is an Instrumentation Engineer from Maine. He brings over a decade of experience developing and maintaining specialized instrumentation systems in both laboratory and field settings. He has past experience with marine renewable technologies and accredited laboratory testing and enjoys collaborating with diverse groups to solve challenging technical problems.
Travis Brown
Travis is interested in everything he doesn’t know yet. Professionally he worked as an avionics technician on F-16s in the Air Force. He’s currently a student working to achieve his Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering at Arizona State University. In his spare time, he likes to snowboard, play hockey, hike mountains with his wife, and hang out with his three dogs.
Wolcott Beck Griswold
Beck is a recent MechE grad from The University Of Vermont. He finds tough problem-solving just as fun as spending time skiing in the woods!
Polly Mangan
Polly is an accomplished data scientist and proven team leader. She aims to grow data science at BETA on the pillars of reproducibility, graceful solutions, and continual knowledge building. Polly is thrilled to join the journey to electric aviation at BETA and hopes to one day land a seaplane on Lake Champlain!
Luke Moultroup
Luke is a local Vermonter and A&P Mechanic. He has worked as a turbine engine mechanic for the last 11 years and now works on the flight test team. Luke loves to work with his hands and spend time with his family. He built his own log cabin and enjoys tinkering on, and driving his race car!
Elena Guylay
Elena graduated from the University of Vermont with a BS in Psychology. She moved to Burlington from Sun Valley, Idaho, determined to stay connected to the outdoors. She likes baking, crafting, going to the waterfront, and spending time with her dog!
Michael Kuss
Mike has over 14 years of electric vehicle experience, primarily as a firmware engineer. Most of his work has been focused on charging system integration, and more recently, infotainment systems & diagnostics. At BETA he uses his skills and experience to develop charging systems. Outside of work, you can find him backcountry skiing or riding a tandem bike with his baby riding shotgun in a backpack!
Tyler Arsenault
Tyler is an engineer interested in dynamics and control. He has extensive experience integrating complex systems!
Kelly Underwood
Kelly is joining the team with experience in systems engineering and an educational background in mechanical engineering. She previously worked for the FAA serving as a general systems engineer on the Aeronautical Services team supporting a portfolio of aeronautical information systems. She has a passion for sustainable technologies, aviation, and is always excited to be continuously learning! Outside of work you will usually find her dancing or working on another hobby.
Jakob Williamson
Jake is a native Vermonter. He graduated from the New England Culinary institute in 2005. He has had the pleasure of cooking for over 20 years from Vermont to the mountains of Colorado and back a few times. Jake enjoys spending time with his wife, daughter, and his dog, Sunny. His family stay’s busy with camping, hiking, kayaking, and fishing!
Damir Nurkanovic
Damir is originally from Bosnia. He came to the United States in 1996. He is married to Amela and they have nine-year-old twins, Norah and Adam. They enjoy playing tennis and golf and recently sailing! Damir has his CDL and can drive anything. He also loves airplanes which makes him a perfect fit here at BETA!
Sadie Strom
Sadie is an intern on the Supply Chain team. She is a rising senior at The University of Vermont studying Economics with a focus on the environment and energy. In her free time, Sadie can be found hiking around New England, drawing, leather working, and reading Nick Offerman’s weekly newsletter “Donkey Thoughts”.
Dan Rowan
Along with the Beta Eats Team, Dan helps to nourish the body with healthy, sustainable food so the mind is free to function creatively. Authentic, enthusiastic, and encouraging, Dan is of the mindset that positivity along with persistence creates success. Previously Dan worked in the hospitality industry. When he’s not working, Dan can be found walking his black lab, Schroon, bowling or golfing with friends, singing karaoke, or testing his random knowledge at local trivia nights.
Oliver Thode
Oli has worked on all kinds of electric vehicles from race cars to mopeds to quadcopters. He will be putting his degrees in CS and Robotics and a strong background in Electrical Engineering to use writing embedded code here at BETA. He is excited to dive into the world of electric aviation!
Daniel Morin
Daniel has more than 30 years of experience with CATIA designing, supporting, training, and setting them up with a wide range of companies. He is definitely an aircraft fan as he was drawing aircrafts at age 4! Daniel got his VFR license at age 24. When he’s not at work he loves skiing and kayaking and being outside enjoying nature.
Jay McCormack
Jay is a native Vermonter and loves the Green Mountain State. He’s passionate about sharing his love for aviation through instruction as a CFI at BETA.
Kasey Gelfand
Kasey is a mechanical engineer who could never decide which side to be on, nerd or jock, so he went for both. He loves playing sports of all kinds, from running to rock climbing to basketball, but is also always game for a chat about the origins of the universe (small talk works too).
Alex Gagnon
After graduating from The University of Vermont with a degree in Civil Engineering Alex’s 8+ year career in large-scale commercial construction took him around the country from DC to SF and Maine. He’s looking forward to leveraging his construction PM experience to help expand BETA’s physical footprint as part of the construction team. When he’s not at work building multimillion-dollar buildings, Alex enjoys taking on renovation projects at home and spending time in the mountains hiking, biking, and snowboarding!
Sam DeFazio
Sam grew up in western New York and graduated from St. Bonaventure University with a degree in Business Management. He has spent the past 13 years in the healthcare industry working as a Program Manager, Business Analyst, and most recently a Product Manager. Outside of work you can find Sam on a golf course, in his garden, chasing his three-year-old daughter around, or screaming at his tv while he cheers on the Buffalo Bills and Sabres!
Ella Brisson
Ella is a Certified Flight Instructor from New Hampshire. After graduating from school in Salt Lake City, she moved back east to teach people how to fly, and continue sharing her love for aviation! When she’s not flying you can find her hiking, swimming, or reading.
Joe Verdino
Joe is a Materials & Processes Engineer with a passion for clean, sustainable energy and all things that fly. A lifetime student, he is working on his MBA part-time and plans to attend Beta’s flight school after that. In his spare time, he enjoys playing tennis with his friends and family.
Alia Bringas-Brand
As a Vermonter, born and raised, the enthusiasm for the outdoors shaped Alia’s passion for sustainability through building new and interesting creations. Now, Alia is a third year design student at the Rhode Island School of Design with a multifaceted approach to sustainability conceptual design development. As well as a design, Alia also loves surfing, cooking, and live music!
Avery Tuttle
Avery was born in Burlington and intends to move south, but something tells him he’s here to stay. He graduated from the AWI Structural and pipe welding program in July 2017 and the next day was at Velan Valve running the hard-facing robot. Avery’s happy place is the par 5-second hole at Rocky ridge, driver in hand!
John O’Rourke
John has 20 years of experience writing software to connect instrumentation for making medical measurements. He looks forward to putting that knowlege to use at Beta to revolutionize aviation. On the weekends he can be found exploring the mountains or sailing on Lake Champlain.
Celia Liberman
After her recent graduation with a Mathematics degree and minors in Chemistry and Computer Science, Celia explored her passion for aviation and space during her internship with NASA. She is beyond excited to be working with the software team on data visualization and test tools, configuration control, and other system improvements. She is also thrilled to be learning new skills such as flying at BETA.
Sydney Klugo
Sydney is an intern currently studying Dietetics at UVM. Outside of classes, she loves doing anything active, including running and exploring the trails in Vermont, solving NYT crossword puzzles, cooking, and taking way too many pictures of her food.
Leilani King
Leilani is a local Vermonter who grew up in St Albans and is an avid skydiver. After studying Mechanical Engineering and International Business Management, she started her career at Ford Motor Company working on the Electrified Powertrain, and is now making the switch from automotive to aerospace!
Malia Hodges
Malia is a native Vermonter earning a degree in mechanical engineering at The University of Vermont. She is an intern on the motor team and looks forward to taking flight lessons as well! Malia enjoys working in her garden, cooking, and building Legos.
Daniel Essington
Danny is an intern at BETA who is passionate about the future of aviation and is proud to be apart of it. He attends Purdue University in West Lafayette, IN and studies aeronautical engineering technology. In his free time he enjoys the outdoors, photography, music, and is an avid fan of the Green Bay Packers.
Alec Towsley
Alec is an IT Professional with 5 years of experience from The University of Vermont. He enjoys tackling issues head-on with a hands-on approach. In his spare time, he enjoys woodworking and tinkering with his VR setup!
Nathan Petter
Equally comfortable in CAD or on the shop floor, Nathan enjoys bringing ideas into reality and testing tangible systems in the real world. He has broad experience developing products from military robots to toys for children and has been known to build things from flame-throwing, metal monsters, and sailboats just for fun! Nathan enjoys riding bikes, climbing mountains, and other forms of adventure.
Maggie Dobroth
Maggie is a Mechanical Engineer who grew up skateboarding and working in machine shops. Her passion for the outdoors and making things inspires her to work in the renewable energy field! When she’s not designing the mechanical side of electrical systems, she can be found on top of a mountain painting a picture or in the glades on her split board.
Henri Champigneulle
Henri is a recently graduated Aerospace Engineer from MIT, working with the Flight Sciences Team with a focus in Aerodynamics and Performance. He hails from Brooklyn, NY, and is passionate about aviation history, model-making, science fiction, and spending time outdoors.
Jack Boynton
Jack is looking to apply concepts from biomedical signal processing and research to flying creations!
Tyler Seeholzer
Tyler comes to BETA with a family of five and decades of Air Force Emergency Management, Remote Pilot, Electronic Combat, and instructional experience. A born-and-raised Vermonter, Tyler and his wife Chantelle have traveled the entire world; after living in Texas, Germany, New Jersey, and California, they know for sure that Vermont is the best place in the world to live and raise their three children; Archer, Tatum, and Desi!
Dominic Lavoie
Dominic is a Mechanical Engineer with a Master’s in Aerospace. Dominic has always been passionate by aircraft and aerospace. He completed his private piolets license right after his mechanical engineering degree. Dominic has worked for different major aerospace companies developing, certifying, and industrializing composites through hybrid structures.
Gary Tilden
Gary brings 15 years of software engineering experience to BETA. Past fields include customer information systems for utility companies, semiconductor manufacturing, and educational app development. He enjoys fixing anything, not just software bugs. He’s an avid skier, and in the summer, he loves mountain biking and boating on Lake Champlain!
Tim Lussier
Tim is excited to be working with the BETA team as a Building & Equipment Maintenance Technician. He brings over 30 years of experience in the HVAC field. Tim enjoys boxing at a local gym, hiking, biking, and going for rides on his Triumph with his wife.
Meet Patel
Meet has over 7 years of aerospace experience, with his main focus on strategic sourcing of BTP parts, and supplier development. When not working he enjoys traveling to new destinations both stateside and abroad!
AJ Papillon
AJ has been working as a Manufacturing Engineer with a focus on CNC applications and programming for over 40 years. He has been interested in flying for as long as he can remember. He believes that life is an adventure and you can never learn too much. AJ has become a MEL private pilot, RYT200 (Yoga Teacher), Dive Master (SCUBA), and Gong Resonance Therapy provider. He loves walking his dog Niya, Motorcycle riding, Skiing, bicycling, kayaking, and many other outdoor activities.
Ganga Magar
Ganga emigrated from Bhutan in 2012. He currently resides in Essex, Vermont. He’s been cooking in restaurants for 10+ years.
Alex White
Alex is a Systems Engineer with 10+ years of experience in aerospace fuel systems, electrical power systems, engine control systems, sensing systems, and electromechanical control systems. Alex’s engineering skills also extend into his garage woodshop where he designs and produces one-of-a-kind items, many of which incorporate high voltage.
Mandy Grace
Mandy is a mechanical engineer from Ohio who has focused on the aerospace aftermarket customer experience since 2003. She is a curious listener, a questioner, and a dot connector who believes that true sustainability must be affordable. Mandy plays trumpet and field hockey. She loves to drive fast and enjoys spending time with her family, especially if it’s outside.
Deb Dudley
Deb is a certified health consultant with over 40 years of experience. She has an extensive background in employee benefits and assists with benefit design, solutions, and implementation. She enjoys a challenge which is why she loves problem-solving and being an advocate for all our BETA team members assisting them through the maze of health care! Born in Vermont, she enjoys most outdoor sports, flying and sailing with her husband, and spending time with family and friends.
Travis Rohlin
Travis joins BETA with 12+ years of automation and control systems experience. He has implemented entire manufacturing lines and enjoys getting in the weeds programming PLCs. His engineering and MBA degrees help him deliver the right solution for the business by justifying fully automated manufacturing lines or recommending when a simpler solution is sufficient. In his free time, he enjoys being outside with his three boys in pursuit of the coveted “World’s Greatest Dad” title.
Nicholas Dennis
Nick fabricated and modified a lot of equipment over the last 22 years of his career. Heavy machinery, heavy equipment attachments, hydraulics, big rigs, Subaru race cars. If it’s made out of metal, he wants to be a part! He brings an “outside the box” thought process with metal solutions.
Austin Block
Austin graduated from the University of Vermont with a degree in Computer Science and a minor in Mathematics. With several years of IT experience, he is now helping to standardize, secure, and strengthen systems at BETA. Outside of work, you can find him hiking, drone-flying, tinkering with electronics, cooking, and woodworking.
Audrey Mundell
Born and raised in Vermont, Audrey is currently studying Chemistry at the University of Vermont with a minor in art. For the past two years she has interned on the Supply Team while doing the occasional creative project at BETA Technologies and will continue to do so over the summer. She enjoys making art, being on Lake Champlain, and everything to do with music (whether it’s spinning records or playing it on the drums). If you want to talk about anything from chemical science to your latest musical obsession, she’s there to share the excitement!
Todd Olson
Todd is a project manager who enjoys working on fast-paced projects with diverse teams. He’s been an engineer and project manager at OEMs and suppliers and is very excited to be at BETA. In his spare time, he enjoys doing anything outside with his wife, daughter, and golden retriever!
Tierney McCallister
Tierney brings design and technical documentation expertise to the team but lacks the ability to draw something as simple as a dog. She loves both the outdoors and indoors and can often be found roller skating, playing video games, or finding new trails to hike with her dog. She is a lover of music and looks forward to the return of concerts!
Stephen Yuenger
Stephen is a Materials and Process Engineer with over 10 years of experience in the automotive and aerospace industries. His background in metallurgy, additive manufacturing, composites, and lean six sigma has given him a diverse set of tools for materials problem-solving. Stephen is a naturally curious person who enjoys learning about everything!
Michael Cemprola
Michael is ready to help change the world! He is passionate about his family, the outdoors, and cutting-edge technology. He spends his time outside of work planning the next adventure in the mountains!
Kristen Blodgett
Kristen followed up a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management at Wake Forest University with an MBA at Champlain College and joins BETA’s Customer Experience team following a decade of managing client partnerships with automotive OEMs and integrating eCommerce strategies. Her interests include travel, snowboarding, golf, adventures with her high-energy Bernedoodle, Ace, and as of recently, flying single engine prop aircraft!
Francois Viens
Francois is an aerospace engineer, he has worked mainly for OEMs over the past 18 years. He has specialized in all aspects related to metallic fatigue, generating spectra, material testing, and publishing time-limited maintenance tasks. Francois is a true team player! He likes to be challenged but also likes to challenge others. He is thrilled to join BETA where he feels he can make a difference!
Ryan Kuschel
Student Pilot AirplaneRyan is an Electrical Engineer that brings over 14 years of aviation experience to BETA, working previously at Cirrus, Piper Aircraft, and Kestrel Aircraft. When he’s not working around the house or chasing after his kids, Ryan enjoys playing guitar, basketball, golf, and downhill skiing.
Greg Goldman
Greg was born and raised in Williston, Vermont before attending Duke University for electrical and biomedical engineering. After college, he moved to New Mexico to build electrical and control systems for oil and gas production facilities, specializing in programmable logic controllers and motor control centers. He quickly realized he missed the Green Mountains, and he’s thrilled to be back in Vermont as an electrical engineer focused on circuit board design. Outside of work, he can be found skiing, rock climbing, or riding his motorcycle.
Jeffrey Wagner
Commercial Pilot - SELJeff has an MS in Systems Engineering, a BS in Aviation Management & Flight Operations, and over 20 years experience in aerospace and defense, from mechanical design engineer to managing a Program Management Office. He has a commercial pilot license and is a licensed A&P mechanic. BETA is the perfect opportunity to bring all of those skills together and help usher in the next evolution of aviation. Outside of work, you can usually find Jeff in his shop, trying to bring some vehicle back to life.
Benjamin Short
Ben is a technology enthusiast with more than 15 years experience working across various technical trades including 3 years in manufacturing/quality assurance, and two years in project management. From automotive repair to building science, Ben brings intense curiosity and a love of science to troubleshoot problems and design solutions. Give him some time, gum, and a paper clip, and he can bring almost any machine back to life. In his free time, Ben enjoys spending time outdoors and learning new skills from leadership to biomechanics to aviation.
Jordan McCallister
Jordan is a supply chain representative with over 7 years of Aerospace experience. In his spare time, he likes to hang out with Scout, his Australian Sheperd. He also enjoys playing drums and hiking!
Cortlandt Sener
Private Pilot - SES, Commercial Pilot - SEL, CFI, CFIICortlandt grew up in Burlington as a 5th generation Vermonter and after college spent 5 years working in 4 different Caribbean countries. He has been a project manager on wind farms, desalination plants, and multi-million dollar mechanical installations for universities and government agencies. He will be working with the manufacturing team at BETA to build the best possible manufacturing facility for Alia. He flies open cockpit aircraft year-round, lived on his sailboat for 2 years with his wife and enjoys exploring the most remote corners of the country.
Chris Havas
Chris is an electro-mechanical technician who spent 38 years maintaining semiconductor manufacturing equipment. A work transfer sent him to Vermont in 1992, where he has made the most of the outdoor activities, both self-propelled and motorized. He enjoys time spent on metal sculpture, old car restoration, and race/rally car fabrication. He’s married, with two young kids that he can’t seem to keep up with on the ski slopes!
Bruce Williams
Lifelong interest in all things transportation. Between ski runs in Vermont growing up, Bruce dreamed of one day becoming a transportation designer. He spent 20+ years at Ford Motor Company doing just that – designing cars, SUV’s, trucks, and even Ebikes. Working in Vermont with the BETA Team and designing electric aircraft sounds even better!
Grayden Shand
Grayden is a data engineer and full stack application developer. He’s spent years honing his craft to build resilient and highly available systems. He enjoys operating behind the scenes, diligently building the infrastructure to support his teammates’ work, while striving to tame system complexity. With a background in entrepreneurship, he also enjoys product design and economics. He is grateful for the opportunity to help make electric flight a reality at BETA.
David Baillargeon
Dave’s interest in manufacturing supply chains has lead to a variety of category management and strategic sourcing roles. Focus areas have included supplier development, risk mitigation and a China-based overseas assignment. When not at work Dave enjoys skiing, motorcycles and cooking.
Greg Beshore
Greg is a supply chain professional with 25+ years of experience across supply planning, inventory management, logistics operations, and continuous process improvement. He’s lived in VT since 2001 and spent more than 10 years each with IBM and GMCR/KDP. He has always loved aviation, and is excited and incredibly grateful to be able to work in his career field while following his passion for flight at BETA. When not at work Greg can be found on a motorcycle, or spending time outdoors with his wife and 4 dogs.
Matthew Newton
Matt has 17 years of manufacturing experience in both semi conductor and optical/electromechanical assemblies. He utilized self taught knowledge of CAD and 3D printers to help improve manufacturing processes and safety. In his free time, he enjoys renovating his home.
Chase Drinkwater
Graduated UVM with a degree in Mechanical Engineering with a minor in Electrical Engineering and a Concentration in Semiconductor Engineering. I started Kart Racing at 4 years old and now I’m rebuilding and racing a 1995 Formula Continental. Being exposed to and eventually working and designing a large variety of systems that are designed purely to go fast has fueled my love for extracting the highest amount of performance possible from any given thing.
Stefan Brecher
With a lifelong interest in anything that drives, flies, sails, or slides, Stefan is excited to dive into the world of full-scale experimental aviation!
Ryan Panzera
I received a BS in Chemical Engineering from the University of South Carolina. I am coming to the team from California where I gained experience in the advanced composites industry. I will be assisting Beta with the quality systems team as well as composite manufacturing for the aircraft. I have a passion for all things aviation, and I like to spend my spare time at the beach with my dog, traveling, hiking/camping, and enjoying craft beer (in between hikes of course).
Yesaswi Chilamkurti
Yesaswi is a Mechanical Engineer with experience in flow and thermal analysis. He is passionate about sustainable technologies and hopes to contribute to a cleaner and greener future for the planet. He spends his free time playing guitar, photography and hiking. He loves his dog and hopes to get her the translator collar from the movie “Up”.
Andrea Oleniczak
Andrea is supporting Team Ops and brings over a decade of experience designing, building, and operating both public access and academic innovation labs. She has a Masters of Fine Arts in glass, a love for historical crafts and the apprenticeship model. Above all, Andrea is a life long learner and is excited for the opportunity to learn how to fly.
Patrick Buckles
An aerospace engineer by education, Patrick has spent the last 15 years in business aviation. He has held a variety of leadership roles in engineering, marketing and sales and enjoys the passion of the BETA team in bringing our innovative products to the world. While not around aircraft, he spends his time golfing, hunting and being outdoors or with his family!
Corey Walker
Corey is a mechanical engineer who has spent his career developing a wide variety of electro-mechanical products in transportation and consumer electronics industries – from automated water dispensers for commercial kitchen applications to compute systems for self-driving cars. In his free time, Corey enjoys tinkering on projects and adventuring outdoors with his wife and yellow lab.
David Germain
David has his BS in Industrial Technology from ECU and has a passion for process improvement. He found his love for aviation while serving in the U.S. Navy as an Aviation Electronics Technician. David is currently working on the Battery Manufacturing team at BETA. In his free time David can be found hiking, snowboarding and exploring with his dogs.
Isa Verna
Isa is currently finishing up high school and is an intern working with the project management team. She is looking to major in Physics with a track in Astrophysics. Outside of school and work, she enjoys acting, reading, and hiking.
Blake Bolt
Blake’s experience includes purchasing, inventory, shipping, receiving, and export mainly in power plants and manufacturing. Outside of work, he enjoys helping his wife with their small flower farm, gardening, attempting to catch up on home projects, and making sounds on synthesizers.
Emma Davis
Student Pilot HelicopterEmma is a flight test engineer and earned her MS in aerospace engineering from Utah State University. Prior to BETA she was a helicopter test engineer in the defense industry. In her free time you can find her at the gym, taking photos, learning something new, or hanging out with her two cats.
Casey O’Hara
A mechanical engineer who decided he really enjoys working with people not just machines, so he got his MBA to explore the business side of things. Coming from a background of construction & project management mixed with semiconductor and coffee manufacturing engineering with a touch of supply chain management, Casey has a desire to create the most productive environment possible for his coworkers. Life at home is full of family, pets, mountain biking, projects, and making slow things go fast. Thanks to BETA, he can now add flying to the hobby list!
Noble Livak
Noble is a Shipping and Receiving Materials Coordinator for Avenue D1 Recharge Team! Noble is also a student piolet! Native to Vermont, he spent his 20’s traveling and exploring. In the summer you can find Noble on the lake sailing his Pearson 10M or relaxing by the Huntington River!
Paul Kearney
Student Pilot AirplaneAfter careers in motorcycle and automotive service, Paul is now an apprentice with the Airframe and Powerplant technician team, helping keep our civil aviation fleet in the air, supporting flight training and business travel at Beta
David Gerstle
Private Pilot - SELDavid hails from Albuquerque, NM. Before receiving a degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Colorado, he fed his adrenaline habit by working for several years as a ski instructor, zipline guide, skydiving coach, and indoor skydiving instructor. David discovered a love for general aviation by jumping out of aircraft of all shapes and sizes and obtained his private pilot’s license while studying in Boulder. He has experience in avionics flight testing, specifically flight display and autopilot development and certification.
Daniel Leonard
Dan has 15+ years of experience in various supply chain roles including purchasing & planning. Dan enjoys spending time outside with his wife, visiting breweries, and hitting every possible show in town.
Jonathan Laliberte
Mechanical engineer with a background in design, analysis, material & process and test composite structure. Worked on different projects from setting up mechanical testing lab, composite bicycle testing, characterizing resin system to hockey stick and full aircraft simulator structure stress analysis. Jumped in the famous Bombardier CSeries program. Enjoyed multiple engineering roles over 13 years developing the aft fuselage hybrid structure from program launch, through the different development phases, certification, and production. Loves to work with his hands and bike to work what ever the weather brings on Montréal.
Travis Gang
Travis started his career in the aerospace industry as a stress analyst. After a break to earn his master’s degree, Travis spent the last nine years working as a systems engineer here in Vermont. Outside of work, Travis enjoys spending time with his wife and two young boys, working on his house, and visiting his family camp in the Adirondacks.
Paul Poisson
For the past 14 years, Paul designed and analyzed wind turbine structures, including low-speed permanent magnet generator structures. Now he’s looking forward to putting that experience to use helping to design the aircraft drivetrain of the future! In his free time, Paul (and his wife) are remodeling their old house mostly with their own hands. When that reaches a livable state, he’ll get back to doing more of the things he loves like cycling, climbing, hiking and running.
Allie Cloyes
Allie spent the first decade of her career in Washington, DC as a Capitol Hill staffer and a lobbyist for air traffic controllers. Then she had a baby, moved to Vermont, and started a side-hustle photography business. Her journey led her to BETA, where she educates policymakers about the future of flight. She may not be an aerospace engineer, but she has assembled an IKEA play kitchen without instructions.
Grey Rowell
Grey is an Aerospace Engineer with over 15 years experience working on aircraft/spacecraft. He has his bachelors and masters from Embry-Riddle and wrote his thesis on aircraft composite repairs. A big fan of EVs, he is excited to be part of the BETA team pioneering technologies for the future of aviation. In his spare time you will find Grey on the bike path, sailing on the lake or on the ski mountain.
Daniel Cashdollar
Private Pilot - SELAnything that combines aviation and engineering is what Daniel loves. He wants to live life to its fullest and has been blessed with many opportunities that he hopes can better himself for the future.
Jack Tulloch
Private Pilot - SELJack was a prior intern of 2 years and is now a full-time employee. He has bachelor’s and a master’s degree in aerospace engineering from WPI. He has loved all things aerospace for as long as he can remember. If he is not out flying planes, he is either designing, building, or thinking about planes. Other interests include upside-down airplanes (F1 cars) and archery!
Sam Hobbs
Born and raised in VT, Sam’s love of aviation started at age 11 when a family friend kept their J-3 cub on floats at his childhood home. While he’s been flying off and on since then, he’s excited to be closer than ever to aviation. With a background in renewables, the confluence of interests is clear. He loves cooking and sharing meals with friends and family and always has a project of some sort around the house. Like most Vermonters, he loves playing outside no matter what the mode.
Noah Schwartz
Student PilotNoah is an industrious and curious individual, focusing on a variety of technical and collaborative projects. From astrophotography to rockets, welding to beverage manufacturing, he takes project ideas and turns them into reality. For 7 years Noah has operated a booth at the annual Champlain Mini Maker Faire, teaching participants how to design, build, and launch rockets on a compressed air launcher system. At BETA Noah works with the Charging Team, helping to put electricity into electric aviation.
Michael Leonard
Michael has been an A&P mechanic for 15 years, working on mostly turbine-powered business jets at a certified repair station. He enjoys spending time outdoors with his wife and two young children, motorsports, and anything that goes fast.
Austin Cate
Austin works on electrical system integration in the aircraft. He is an electrical engineer by training but a systems engineer in practice. He designed wind turbines for over a decade, making sure the electrical control and generation systems integrated smoothly with the mechanical structures and systems. He later led a team focused on utility-scale energy storage, installing 20 MWh of batteries on multiple continents. He grew up on a small farm in central VT where he learned to fix almost anything.
Austin Meyer
Austin Meyer wrote X-Plane and Xavion, and made the documentary movie “The Patent Scam”. Austin is also an investor and philanthropist.
Sarah Deshaw
Sarah brings an “all hands on deck” attitude and positive energy to her role on Team Ops supporting BETA’s best and brightest as an Education Partner and supporting efforts with Onboarding and Recruitment. In addition to her background in International Education, Sarah honed her project management and organizational skills as a professional parent volunteer in the BVT schools. Sarah is fascinated by the innovation happening at BETA and is excited by the opportunity to learn to fly!
Tom Henck
Tom is a Systems Engineer and Electrical Systems DER covering 14 CFR PARTS 23, 25, 27, 29. Systems engineering represents the perfect mix of all engineering disciplines to bring everything together through planning and requirements, it’s exciting stuff really! Experience includes but is not limited to ARP4754A, ARP4761, DO-178C, DO-254, DO-330. DO-160G, Mil-STD-810, and Mil-STD-461. As a DER assisting the FAA Tom works diligently to provide a thorough unbiased review.
Matthew Neal
I graduated from Champlain College in 2019 with a major in Creative Media where I focused on Game Development, Interaction Design, and Visual Art. In my free time and when I’m feeling creative I like to make artworks that respond to the viewer with motion, light, and sound. I’ve always loved technology and art, BETA is the perfect place for me to continue learning and pursuing both!
Phil Butler
Phil is an electrical and embedded software engineer. He is an avid woodworker and self-taught mechanic and is always hunting for exciting projects to work on. When he is not working he enjoys hiking, skiing, and climbing.
Jean-Sebastien Leclerc
Jean-Sebastien is a mechanical engineer with a master’s in composite manufacturing. He’s always loved fast cars and as a young graduate student, wanted to start his career in Formula 1. He has worked in both the rotorcraft and aircraft industry developing and certifying novel composite structures using automated manufacturing techniques. At BETA, he is a part of the team supporting the development and manufacturing of Alia 250. He enjoys riding his bike, skiing, traveling, and cooking (he has 3 BBQs and a wood-burning pizza oven).
Hossein Ghiasi
My journey of close to two decades of research and work on composite structures includes a Ph.D. from McGill and experience on two composite-intensive aircraft programs (A220 and LJ85). Structural analysis, certification, and testing are not only my expertise but also my interest and I am happy to share it with Beta and help with the certification of ALIA.
Richard Ward
Richard is a born and raised desert rat that has lived his whole life in the American southwest but is excited for a change and for more green. He started his career at American Airlines where he worked on the cabin interior of the Airbus fleet. He then flipped to Virgin Galactic where he wore many hats including cabin interiors, payloads, and crew safety. He was able to help train the first crew to go to space from New Mexico. Outside of work, he loves getting outdoors and exploring new places.
Lisa Moody
Lisa has been in food service for 25 years. She was born and raised in Vermont. She enjoys camping, boating, sunsets, and leisure bike rides with her family.
Thomas Couture
Tom is a Master Electrician/Business Owner with over 20 years in the trade. Many of which were spent installing photovoltaics, including the recharge pad at BTV.
Daniel Spira
Daniel contributes to VTOL aerodynamics in BETA’s flight sciences team. Prior to BETA, he spent 20 years crafting helicopter flight dynamics models for high-fidelity flight simulators around the world, followed by product development with an aviation training technology startup. He is a member of the VFS Modeling and Simulation Technical Committee, a pretty serious pianist, and cannot resist bad puns!
Marty Thomas
Marty loves to design and build things, whether it’s a custom fly fishing rod or the high-speed, rotating machinery that he worked on for 18 years as a lead engineer for a defense contractor. His experience ranges from creative concept development, analysis, testing, manufacturing & assembly. A resident of Richmond, VT, Marty, and his wife are raising three sons. Marty coaches youth lacrosse and is always looking for an excuse to use his tractor or work in his machine shop.
Justin Woodruff
Justin is a Mechanical Engineer from North Carolina State University that juggled many roles on the Formula SAE team. At BETA, he is on the battery test team which keeps his ADHD in check and also allows him to break stuff professionally!
Stuart Bell
Stuart is a member of the BETA Carpentry Team. He has spent his time before BETA working as a residential carpenter, softgoods designer, and freelance graphic designer. When he is not working, you can usually find him in the mountains, chasing down some Smallies on Lake Champlain, or working on his latest project.
Blake Opsahl
Blake has been fascinated by flight ever since he was a kid, playing Microsoft Flight Simulator 2000 and listening to his grandfather tell stories of his time working as a pilot in rural Iowa. As a grown-up, Blake has made a career out of this fascination, working as a network planner and all-around ops guy with aircraft manufactures, passenger and cargo carriers. At BETA, Blake focuses on business development and strategy. When not at the office, you’ll likely find Blake in his kitchen negotiating a new bread recipe, or out in the mountains trying to tire out his husky.
Brent Stansfield
Brent is a fresh Mechanical Systems Engineering Grad from Ontario’s Conestoga College. His pre-engineering background in automotive and machine shops has given him a love of hands on work. That, combined with his passion for creating a sustainable future meant BETA was a perfect fit! Outside of work he can be found enjoying the outdoors and searching craigslist for old cars and motorcycles.
Adam Benjamin
Adam uses his electrical engineering background in semiconductor testing and failure analysis to instrument and test motors and inverters. While working as a submarine electrician, he developed the skills and passion for the operation and maintenance of electrical machinery and power distribution systems.
Scott “Zip” Willits
Zip retired from the USAF where he had way too much fun flying Intel, Surveillance Reconnaissance (ISR) aircraft around the globe. As a civilian, he was the initial cadre that stood up the DoD’s first software factory “Kessel Run” as they revolutionized the way the DoD designed/delivered software to operators. Zip brings a wealth of aviation, operational and international experience to BETA and after years flying sideways is excited to actually look out the window.
Kyle Clark
Kyle says “Sometimes everything you’ve ever done suddenly intersects with everything you’ve ever wanted to do.” With specialties in business and power, he founded iTherm, which was acquired by Dynapower where he then directed engineering; but with a passion for flight it was almost inevitable that he would build a company around electric aircraft, and here we are. Fun fact, after Harvard, Kyle spent his NHL signing bonus on flight lessons.
Timothy Richter
Tim worked on hybrid and electric vehicle projects for GE since 2003. He designs, develops and tests electrical systems and software with a focus on component interactions, data collection and analysis. To unwind he shreds a vintage Strat with the volume at 11.
Michael Craig
Student PilotMichale has been building/restoring houses for 23 years. He owned four companies in NH up until he visited BETA. He decided to give it all up to join this amazing movement in electric aviation. He couldn’t be happier with the career change and to be involved with the amazing feats that BETA accomplishes each week.
Dan Russell
Dan works on BETA’s data team building scalable applications in the cloud. When he’s not writing code, he’s on an adventure with one or more of: canoe, fly rod, tele skis, motorcycle, four wheel camper and Pico the Vizsla. Dan has had a lifelong interest in ‘things that fly’ and looks forward to becoming a private pilot with seaplane rating to get further into the backcountry.
Curt Kellogg
Curt is a Mechanical Engineer who has worked and played in machine shops since he was a kid. He has been designing machine components for the last 15 years. Curt moved over to BETA because he loves the fast-paced, ever-changing workload and a chance to work on something revolutionary. Outside of work you can find curt riding and building mountain bike trails.
Patrice Gaillard
Student PilotPatrice is a R&D Mechanical engineer with expertise in creative problem solving, product design, research and simulations. Born in South Western France, he is now enjoying life with his family in VT and you can find him x-country skiing or somewhere on a lake in the summer.
Caleb Mann
Caleb was born and raised a Vermonter from Colchester. He graduated from Saint Michael’s College and The University of Vermont in Mechanical Engineering. Caleb currently works on motor test and development here at BETA.
Brett Robinson
PilotBrett is recently retired from the Air Force after a 23+ year career. He has flown C-130s, C-17’s and C-40s and was occasionally pulled out of the cockpit to for staff jobs, including several assignments representing the Department of Defense on Capitol Hill. Brett lives in Maryland with his wife and three sons and is excited to part of the Washington DC team running BETA’s simulator.
Gregory Kern
Student PilotGreg has over 10 years of semiconductor manufacturing experience as a lead equipment engineer. His main objectives have been to drive productivity improvements and cost reduction initiatives. He mostly enjoys being hands on and turning wrenches in a fast-paced work environment. At BETA he uses his skills and experiences in motor manufacturing planning. Outside of work, you can find him exploring Vermont on his mountain bike or by foot.
Chandler Habig
Chandler recently graduated from The University of Vermont with a Bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering. While wrapping up school, He worked over at Avenue D building the recharge pads for a little more than a year and has now transitioned to the motors team. He loves to build things and tries to get his hands on as many projects as he can. When he is not working, Chandler enjoys anything outdoors, including skiing, sailing, and playing pond hockey.
Patrick Gorun
Student PilotBorn in Europe, and raised in Vermont, Patrick has extensive engineering background from semiconductor equipment design, to coffee processing and aerospace. BETA offers the ideal technical and cultural fit to apply this experience. Outside of work, kids, house projects and leading an active lifestyle occupy his time.
Davis Lavoie
Davis is a rising junior at UVM studying electrical engineering. He is a local Vermont resident and loves going on hikes, camping and skiing in the winter. He has been working with the SN2 team to get it wired up and ready for flight.
Louis Gauthier
Louis has a Bachelor in Mechanical Engineering from McGill University and a PhD from Laval University. He worked on Learjet85 (Crashworthiness), CSeries/Airbus220 and Global7500 Program. Louis is a ski, snowboard, telemark, and mountain bike certified instructor. Based in Bromont Qc. Interests include 3D printing & CNC Machining. Father of 4.
Nathan Ward
Student PilotNate works on the deployment of our recharging infrastructure and is based in the mid-Atlantic. He is currently working on his private pilot license. When he has downtime, he enjoys hanging out with his two young children and three dogs, hiking, and kite surfing when the wind is just right!
Richard Donnelly
Student PilotRichard is an industrial designer who loves to drive, ride or captain anything that moves! You name it, planes, trains, boats, bikes, cars. 25 years in, he’s had a chance to design better versions of many of the above. BETA is his intersection of everything he’s wanted to do.
Hunter Fenn
A jack-of-all-trades type. He grew up in East Africa but ended up at UVM to earn a BA in Chinese Language/Culture. He was then a mechanic, a carpenter, and attended VTC for Electrical Eng. while working as a Mfg. Tech. Outside of BETA, you’ll find him at a cliff, bridge, or waterfall looking for the best spot to jump! He loves extreme sports and playing or working on anything with a motor.
Bettina Edelstein
Private Pilot - SELA former New York Times editor, Bettina moved to Vermont in 2012 to learn how to work on aircraft. As an A&P mechanic, she spent 6 years at Pratt & Whitney. She’s also been writing a memoir about learning to fly again after years away from airplanes and what that taught her about living. Her aviation experiences include flying the Hudson River Corridor in NYC, meeting one of the last surviving Tuskegee Airmen and sitting in the cockpit of a Spitfire.
Joshua Rock
An A&P mechanic, he started inline service at Heritage Aviation 25 yrs ago where he became the General Aviation Maintenance Manager, specializing in Cirrus aircraft.
Zachary White
Zach is a program manager with a background in mechanical engineering and product development. Before joining BETA he spent 9yrs developing soldier equipment with an emphasis on visual augmentation systems. Zach holds a Master’s of Science in mechanical engineering and enjoys skiing, mountain biking, and anything else that gets him outside.
Ed Hall
Ed wears many hats, primarily because he’s bald, but also due to his diverse background and category-challenging skill set. At BETA, he helps translate the between various stakeholders to ensure that expectations are aligned. Also, engage end-users early and often for feedback on iterative prototypes.
Katie Clark
Katie keeps BETA operations, artistic vision, and soul moving in the right direction. She has experience with multiple start ups and is an expert level multitasker. She has fantastic taste in shoes and curses more than we’d like.
Stephen Ross
Steve has written a bunch of stuff for a bunch of industries, most of which he is not at liberty to discuss. Especially the program that was retrofitting sharks with laser beams attached to their heads. Steve loves spending time with his family and likes to run for fun. Considers himself to be a walking encyclopedia of classic rock and says his favorite Led Zeppelin album is “Dark Side of the Moon”.
Brian Esser
Student PilotBrian utilizes his knowledge and experience across multiple technical disciplines to design, build, and deploy specialized instrumentation and measurement systems to further our knowledge and understanding of how our aircraft performs in the physical world. Brian enjoys both sharing his knowledge with others, and learning from the diverse backgrounds and skillsets of those he works with.
Nathaniel Fortin
Nathaniel is a helicopter CFII and former Army Apache pilot. In his spare time, he works on his family farm with maple and apple trees, working on website SEO, and fermenting the best cider possible. Above all this, his favorite activity is spending time with his wonderful children, Parker and Nolan.
Chenjie Lin
Chenjie’s expertise is conceptualizing and developing novel electric motor and drive systems. Before joining BETA, he worked as a research engineer at ABB U.S. Corporate Research Center, where he initiated and led R&D projects to develop next-generation technologies. Chenjie loves basketball and always finds inspiration in sports to fuel his passion. He doesn’t like cooking.
Joe Trovato
Joe started as an electrical engineer but has ventured into software, robotics, machine learning. He has worked at variety of startups on emerging technologies. First, he worked on a team to build an embedded sensor system and software tools to help professionals predict avalanches. After avalanches, Joe focused on autonomous UAVs designing sensor systems and autonomy frameworks for hard kill counter UAS applications.
Jacob Hurwitz
Student PilotJake hails from the heart of the green mountains. After graduating from UVM in 2016 with a degree in mechanical engineering he worked as a carpenter and part-owner of a local custom home building company. As a Six Sigma Black Belt he now supports the manufacturing team at BETA aiding in the transition from research and development to certified production. Outside of work you’ll find Jake at the top of a mountain on either his skis, bike, or dirt bike. If he isn’t out in the woods he is the garage tinkering with or fixing the toys.
Bertil Kurth
I have lived in Vermont with my family for nearly 25 years, largely because we love how close to nature we can be here. I am passionate about the environment, the protection of natural spaces, and the many ways we can enjoy the outdoors in this beautiful state and country. I am most proud of having raised two beautiful children here in Vermont, and watching them follow their own dreams is one of my greatest joys.
Raechel Dysart
Raechel is an inventory management and merchandising professional with 10 years of experience working for global retailers and manufacturers. Her expertise is in inventory purchasing, planning, forecasting, and trend analysis. In her free time, you can find her enjoying the outdoors with her family or working around her house. Some of her passions include snowboarding, biking, cross country skiing, hiking, and interior design.
Scot Swanborn
Scot is a master craftsman and once upon a time environmental chemist. As a business owner, he designed and manufactured furniture and cabinets but his experience spans plumbing, electrical and general carpentry. At Beta, he fabricates aircraft and charging pad prototypes.
Jake Pill
Curiosity for why things are made the way they are, and how they might be improved led Jake to a BFA in industrial design from RISD. Since then, he’s worked in R&D/design/manufacturing with a focus on noodling between the design and manufacturing worlds to realize client goals. At BETA, Jake works with the industrial design team to create a unified visual and interactive experience for the many customer and client touchpoints. When he’s not working, Jake enjoys getting outside for hikes, bikes, skis, or fixing broken things from the 80s.
Andrew Giroux
Andrew is adept at embedded systems, including circuit board design and firmware development. In the past, he’s built sensor systems for helicopters, internet-connected smart grid devices, and fast electric cars. He’s been a volunteer firefighter and EMT for a decade.
Philip Retzloff
Phil is an expert woodworker by trade and an entrepreneur who gave up making beautiful wood kids’ toys to make big kids’ toys. At BETA he designs and builds aircraft and recharge pad prototypes.
Kyle Werner
Kyle is an expert in sensing technologies, mechanical design, and rapid fabrication. He’s worked on everything from electric vehicles to race cars, to aerospace sensors. If it’s high voltage and high speed he’s in his element. Some say he dreams in GCODE.
Ross Elkort
Ross is a Mechanical Engineer with a passion for anything that moves. He is a recent graduate of UVM who has wanted to work at BETA since first hearing about the company on the Smugg’s chairlift. Outside of work, you can find him tinkering with and racing cars or out running, mountain biking, or snowboarding.
Ben Colbourn
Ben is variously our remote test pilot, rapid prototyping, and design specialist. He has his hands on anything mechanical and electrical. He’s also the world record holder (Guinness approval pending) for piloting the largest remote control electric aircraft in history.
Willa Clark
Willa is a capable pilot on multiple aircraft and happens to be the youngest pilot on our team. Willa even flew aircraft before she drove a car. She once jumped out of a Lancair at night, that was still moving, on fire. (the plane, not her!) If that wasn’t impressive enough, she assists in many areas of our business including the recharge pad infrastructure, social media, and other hands on technical work.
Edward Eseppi
Eddie graduated from the University of Connecticut with a degree in accounting. Since then, he has worked for the Appalachian Mountain Club ‘s hut system in the White Mountains of New Hampshire, Alta Ski Area, and more recently, a public accounting firm based in New Hampshire where he predominantly assisted nonprofits in their financial reporting. Outside of the office, you can find him exploring new gravel roads by bike, skiing, or on the hunt for the best pizza around.
Devon Rothman
After spending 9 years in New York City working for financial institutions, Devon decided to pack it up and look for greener pastures (mountains). His passion for aviation, innovation, and sustainability brought him to BETA where he is excited to be learning to fly. In his free time, he enjoys hiking, skiing, and breathing in that fresh Vermont air instead of city smog!
Schuyler MacDonald
Schuyler grew up in Burlington, Vermont before attending university in Bozeman, Montana. He has always credited growing up in his Dad’s metal shop to have helped progress him early on as a designer and manufacturer. After a few years skiing and hiking he graduated with a degree in Mechanical Engineering and a Minor in Aerospace. In his free time, he hikes and skis, and sometimes hike to ski. He rock climbs, plays disc golf, sails, paddle boards, canoes, backpacks, and bikes…most of all, he likes to be outside.
Abbey Blankensop
Abbey hails from the western Chicago suburbs, ending her 23-year streak! Her move to Burlington was answering a call to the outdoors and desiring her efforts towards a company doing something good & kind. The irony of the move? Abbey studied creative advertising + art direction, then happily moved to a state without billboards! She is a member of the creative team and is here to help create and spread the visual brand identity of BETA through graphic design.
Skye Carapetyan
CFI, CFIISkye acquired flight time as a student, instructor, and airline pilot. After transitioning from the airlines into sales, it was inevitable the two paths would cross again. From experience as Vice President for the western US at a logistics company to his role as National Sales Director for an EV startup, it has culminated with BETA. Skye’s primary role is to develop the charging network for the Western US. Outside work you’ll catch Skye trying to keep up with his two kids in their outdoor activities.
Travis Jones
A “Jack of all trades”, Travis has spent his career performing root cause analysis, creating electrical and mechanical designs, troubleshooting fielded equipment, and training others in at height safety and rescue. An Electro-Mechanical engineer armed with a business degree, Travis is excited to draw on every skill he possesses as part of the BETA team. In his spare time, Travis enjoys spending time with his family, woodworking, beekeeping, snowboarding, and off-roading in his Jeep.
Rayan El-Kotob
Rayan is a Lebanese import, materials engineering grad from Vancouver with a strong background in manufacturing, renewable energy, and a passion for data and sustainability. Rayan’s passion for a sustainable future and data drive process is what helps her wake up each day. Instead of coffee, some tea and a stretch are how Rayan best prefers to feel revitalized.
Ed Eppler
PilotAfter advising aerospace and defense companies around the globe for nearly twenty years, Ed retired from investment banking to help his favorite client achieve his most ambitious dreams. Ed’s excited to be back in VT (home of his alma mater) where he can pursue his passions for backcountry skiing and cycling. And, Ed is eager to experience life in the cockpit after spending millions of miles in coach.
Amy Silverston
Amy joins the Payroll and Benefits team at BETA. After graduating from UVM and moving around the county including a 10-year stint at Deer Valley Resort doing Human Resources, Payroll, and HRIS systems, she has returned to Vermont and is excited to support Beta and the team in making a change and helping drive change for the future.
Brandon Hanley
Brandon is a recent graduate from the four-year electrical engineering Technology program at Vermont Technical College. His high school CAD instructor taught students to have a great work ethic; a lesson Brandon holds very importantly in his life. He is passionate about his work, learning new things, and helping those around him. In his free time, Brandon enjoys photography, painting, playing clarinet, piano, and bass, skiing, and waking up to a cup of coffee hand-brewed from his AeroPress.
Matthan Stroethoff
Matthan works with the carpentry team at BETA building charging infrastructure. He previously owned a home improvement contracting business here in Vermont. When he’s not hiking, biking, skiing, or swimming you’ll probably find him sitting in a cozy spot reading a book.
Abby Rathbun
Private Pilot - SELOriginally from Ohio, Abby came to Vermont to study mechanical engineering at The University of Vermont…and to not be in Ohio. At BETA, she works on the manufacturing team in the production control space. She found a love of flying while in high school, but you’ll also find her skiing, hiking, reading, swimming, and hanging out in downtown Burlington!
Jeffrey Goldman
Jeff is a rising senior studying mechanical engineering at The University of Vermont. He is an intern who assists with the design, assembly, and testing of batteries. Before joining the team at BETA, Jeff worked at Hayward Tyler Inc. where he designed components for performance testing industrial pumps. He’s always up for a company bike ride!
Colin Spencer
Colin is a lifelong nerd who loves to make things. He has dabbled both personally and professionally in a wide variety of technical pursuits, following a meandering path from getting his ham radio technician license at age five to designing and validating motherboards for industrial and rugged PCs. Outside of work he spends his time making & playing music, skateboarding, playing video & board games, and generally geeking out.
Tyler Skroski
Tyler is working with the battery team on the mechanical design of modules and packs. He is focused on safety testing and integration of pouch cell technology. In his free time, he loves to explore the woods, bike, and all mediums of art.
Justin O’Brien
Born in Vermont, Justin has been around the automotive industry since he was in diapers. Outside of work he enjoys playing with anything with a motor, drone flying (before he landed it at the bottom of Lake Champlain), and long walks on the beach with his cat.
Tim Peters
Tim has worked in kitchens for the past 27 years from New Jersey to France, then to Colorado, Charleston, Columbia, South Carolina, and finally landing in Burlington. When he’s not wearing his apron he enjoys fishing, hiking, photography, and cooking at home with his wife Amy and dog Newton. His goal is to bring the BETA family together each workday with a noontime feast.
Hailey Schofield
Private Pilot - SELHailey’s background has taken her through teaching, illustrating, and the beer industry. She has an entrepreneurial product-based sales background and as well as a passion for aviation. She works with a team managing the inbound client interest at BETA. When she’s not flying, you can find her illustrating and metalsmithing or in the woods exploring, backcountry skiing, mountain biking, and canoe camping.
Niels Arentzen
Niels is supporting the supply chain team. His interest in procurement grew as he was leading the conversion to electric lawn care equipment at The University of Vermont. Outside of BETA he can be found on the lake, painting houses, or juggling a soccer ball!
Tyler Austin
Tyler Austin works in supply chain inventory and logistics at the Ave D and Ave 2D2 sites. Previously, he worked for 15 years for Green Mountain Coffee in 5S, inventory control, and supply chain excellence. His main priority will be setting up a process that flows with the system and the business to drive a highly functional supply chain from receiving to storage into production. Outside of work, he is near the grill cooking in the summer with his family, camping, boating and fishing. In the winter he is at the hockey rink or on the snowmobile trails.
Jordan McCann
Creating is Jordan’s passion. He’s spent the last 6 years manufacturing rugged and industrial computers while improving manufacturability and build processes. He will now bring Lean and 5s skills to scaling the build operations at BETA as a manufacturing technician.
Jerrett Schnabel
Jerrett is a former automotive technician, specializing in electrical diagnostics. Graduated from CTE and UTI with multiple awards. Dedicated to solving issues and helping others.
Alana Brault
Alana started working in manufacturing on her 16th birthday as a capacitor assembler and has held many positions within the industry since. At BETA, she’ll be using her skills and experience in production planning and ERP admin to help get production moving. She enjoys spending time with her family, cooking, hiking, and hanging out at the lake. She also has a minor obsession with giant pandas.
Sloan Forstrom
Sloan is a born and raised Vermonter, living in Burlington for 5 years. He’s been welding since 2010 and attended AWI in 2012-2013, graduating top of his class with every certification they had at the time. Over the last 4 years, he has been mainly TGAW and is looking forward to getting back into the certified welding field. In his free time, you will find him tinkering or bashing on one of his many motorized toys. Having NEVER flown, he is very excited and thankful for the opportunity to get into an aircraft!
Micki Dalpra
Student PilotMicki initially started with BETA recruiting and onboarding our amazing team members. Today she works as a Project Manager on our Real Estate Development team. She mainly focuses on “BETA-fying” our satellite offices – overseeing the completion of our first international office in Montreal, Canada, a fit-up in Raleigh, NC, and assisting with our new BETA Campus in Vermont
Danielle Price
Student PilotDanielle always wanted to be an astronaut until she realized she was claustrophobic. She then decided to pursue degrees in mechanical and aerospace engineering at West Virginia University to design and manufacture the equipment necessary to get others airborne. She has worked for multiple aerospace companies such as Pratt & Whitney and Collins Aerospace and is passionate about the world of aviation. She spends her free time rock climbing, hiking, practicing yoga, and riding her dirt bike. Her happy place is in a hammock along a river, on top of a mountain, or admiring the beauty of Vermont from the sky.
Craig VandeVusse
Student PilotCraig is a mechanical engineer with a passion for structural analysis, model validation, and things that vibe. He spent his early career with the Navy conducting explosive shock and vibration tests (google full-scale shock trial”) and the past few years analyzing injection molding machines. In his spare time, Craig loves backcountry skiing, rock climbing, and hanging out with his wife and baby daughter.
Andy King
Andy grew up in an automotive business before joining the Air Force after a short stint at the Univ. of Florida. He spent 10 years disarming explosive devices, 2 of those spent as an instructor at a multi-service explosive ordnance disposal school. He returned to the automotive world for 12 years before continuing his college career at St. Mike’s. Andy is an intern that will be finishing his undergraduate degree in Mathematics, with a concentration in engineering and data science this Spring. He is currently working in the motor lab supporting R&D and dyno testing. Outside of work and school, he enjoys riding his Harley-Davidson, racing just about anything, and spending time with his wife and teenage children.
Robert Bottomley
Rob’s focus at BETA is on the design, analysis, and integration of novel technologies for flight. Rob received his BS/MS in mechanical engineering from Northeastern University and worked as an aerospace/mechanical engineer for Tethers Unlimited developing low TRL technologies towards NASA flight readiness. Rob’s expertise includes mechanical/ thermal modeling and design, composites, mechatronics as well as BMX/mountain biking, snowboarding, dim sum, and all things music.
Kevin Carter
Kevin has spent his career in warehousing, inventory, and logistics management in the foodservice equipment repair and luxury lighting industries, with a focus on continuous improvement. He is passionate about operational efficiency, accuracy, and simplicity in the world of inventory control and logistics. When not at BETA Kevin will find himself trail running or getting lost somewhere wandering remote backroads on his adventure motorcycle.
Carson Kurtz-Rossi
Carson graduated the University of Vermont in 2021 with a degree in electrical engineering and a focus on programming and control systems. He has been working at Beta since, first on the scale model team where he helped design, build, and fly remotely piloted and autonomous 1/5th scale ALIAs. He is now helping to develop an iron bird for integration and verification testing of the low voltage systems on ALIA. Outside of work his hobbies include skiing, mountain biking, and flipping butterfly knives.
Jayce Slesar
Jayce is here at BETA just to simply solve problems with his friends!
Matt Tabasko
Matt works across teams to implement simple and efficient business systems and workflows to enable electrified flight. Prior to BETA, he led global software and consulting teams across finance, automotive, CPG, and healthcare industries. He specializes in full-stack SDLC, UI/UX, sales engineering, product strategy, and software integrations. Matt lives with his family in the mountains in a net-zero house and enjoys restoring vintage Marantz amplifiers, building speakers, biking, snowboarding, and running!
Tom McCallister
Commercial Pilot - SEL, SES, Commercial Pilot - HelicopterTom is a flight test engineer and flight analyst DER. He started his flying career when he was 14, paying for lessons by working at his parent’s sign shop. He received a degree in aerospace engineering from Embry Riddle and has spent his career flying and certifying high-performance aircraft.
Joe Lane
Student PilotJoining BETA’s finance leadership team, Joe balances his passion for business with his love of fly fishing. He enjoys traveling to unspoiled waters in search of trophy fish. In addition to progressive roles in corporate finance, Joe has shared his FP&A expertise with over 100 growth companies as an enterprise planning software consultant. True to his conservation roots, Joe is driven by the prospect that the innovative work at BETA will lessen the human impact on our wild places.
Whiskey Dog
Whiskey is a nine year old Jack Russell Terrier. He enjoys short walks on the beach and long days in the hanger. 90% of his waking hours have been on the job for moral support. He runs on three legs and loves baby carrots. He’ll be airborne in the very near future and looks forward to getting fitted for a Stearman harness in order to enjoy loops and rolls with his dad.
Ted Dudley
Commercial Pilot - SEL, Commercial Pilot - SES, CFI, CFIITed, another former F-16 and A-10 pilot, comes to Beta as a flight instructor after two 20-year careers, in the Air Force, and at Delta Air Lines. He lives in Colchester, VT, and sometimes Melbourne Beach, FL. He used up nearly all of his lifetime supply of good taste in choosing a spouse and can be found sailing his sloop with friends on Lake Champlain on many summer days.
Cameron Jonas
Student PilotCam is a USAF-trained aircraft technician who rolls up his sleeves and does whatever needs doing. His focus is integral to building and maintaining flight test aircraft, component integration, and the logistics to make it all happen. Basically, if Cam doesn’t know, we’re in trouble. Prior to BETA, he studied fine woodworking and sustainable building in the mountains of VT, hence the beard. Now, he basically lives at BETA, somehow getting paid for his hobbies, and answering the constant question “Ask Cam!”
Shawn Cimonetti
Student Pilot (Airplane & Helicopter)Shawn is a Vermont grown electromechanical engineer, part of the Beta team since spring 2020 and happiest at the intersection of fast R&D and production. He leads the design and integration of some aircraft subsystems, as well as finding creative design solutions to flight test instrumentation and airborne mechanical hardware. When not working most often found in the backcountry, mountains or lakes. Private helicopter pilot.
Fabian Baumann
Fabian is a recent graduate from Carleton University where he studied mechanical engineering. He spent the last year of his university degree designing and building a human-sized 3D printer. At BETA, you can find him working with the motor team engineering the future of aviation.
Willem Hillier
Willem started building circuits at age 8, and since then he has worked on a variety of projects, including electric racecars, low-cost mobility scooters for children, and robotic musical instruments. At BETA, Willem designs and debugs PCBs and related electrical systems. As of his sophomore year, Willem is pausing his BSEE at UVM to work at BETA full time.
Joshua Myslik
Commercial Pilot - SEL, Commercial Pilot - Helicopter, CFIJosh thrives on mechanical product development and has spent his career evolving a skill set to be able to bring ideas from concept, to CAD, through to manufacture and test. He has a passion for getting airborne and is an instructor for fixed wing aircraft, a commercial helicopter pilot and is always looking for ways to incorporate flying into his day to day. Before BETA, he has worked on a team developing eVTOL aircraft, at Scaled Composites building the world’s largest airplane, building a replica of the first airplane to cross the Atlantic and a too short of a stint blowing up scale models for the movie industry.
Steve Widdis
Student PilotSteve Widdis is a mechanical engineer with over 10 years of experience in R&D and a passion for finding practical solutions for complex problems. When he can steal some time to play, you can find him kite surfing, sailing, mountain biking, or skiing with his wife and 3-year-old daughter.
Chris Townsend
Student PilotChris is an electrical engineer working on sensing and hardware embedded control systems required for fly-by-wire (FBW) flight control. Chris has a background developing both hardware and software for embedded sensing systems. He was formerly a lead engineer at MicroStrain. No relation to Pete.
Grayson King
Grayson is a circuit design wizard with 25 years of industry experience and a snow & water sports junkie who’s been sliding over water in various forms just about since birth. His happy place is that magical “flow state” where time and self disappear into focused activity. He finds it just as much when absorbed in the Zen art of a complex PCB layout, as when arcing turns through the trees on skis, or flying along a foot or two above the lake chop on a wind foil board.
Melanie Craig
Melanie specializes in facilities communication and activities that support the daily functionality, performance and operational structures for the team. She never stands still. She’s here to make efficient use of our spaces and equipment, to look after our teams and our guests, and to assist with the daily operations of our properties and assets. She is rebuilding her home one room at a time, and enjoys being unplugged with her family at camp, “Camp Paradise”.
Malcolm Achilles
Student PilotMalcolm is currently working on his degree part-time while working full-time. He works on anything and everything that needs to happen including CNC Machines and other industrial equipment. He is a competitive Mountain biker racing around the East Coast.
Jake Nealy
Student PilotJake is an electrical engineer and drone aficionado. He is passionate about building UAV platforms with an emphasis on long range communications and long flight times. In his professional career he has worked extensively with IMUs, control systems, wireless communications, and embedded systems. When not pushing long-range limits he can be found in the mountains, hiking with his dog Sampson, or chasing fresh tracks on his snowboard.
Will Callahan
Student PilotTeam support and facility upgrades best describes what Will does at BETA. After building houses for nearly 20 years, he had the good fortune of being brought in temporarily to help with fixing up BETA’s north hanger nearly 2 years ago. That job led to more projects and eventually a full-time status here helping team members achieve their goals through whatever support is needed. He’s a father of 3 kids: Brooks, Astraea, and Ronan. He’s lived in Essex, VT for the last 8 years with his wife Rachel, and grew up in Middlebury, VT.
Chris Caputo
Student Pilot (Helicopter), Private Pilot - SEL, Private Pilot - SES, Commercial Pilot - SEL, Commercial Pilot - SES, CFI, CFIIChris, or call sign Pooter, is one of our Certified Flight Instructors who has a passion for teaching and flying that is truly contagious…so contagious, that he married his T-37 flight instructor, Laura. Prior to BETA life, Pooter spent 31 years in the Air Force as a dedicated combat fighter pilot with over 4,000 hours in the A-10 and F-16. He also logs flight time as a first officer with Delta Air Lines on the 757 and 767. Chris loves being part of the BETA team, wearing cool hats, talking with his hands, and keeping a pulse on all things aviation.
Bianca Marrier
Bianca is a licensed Airframe and Powerplant Mechanic, she is one of only a few women that carry a license in the state of Vermont.
Matthew Colby
Student PilotMatt is realizing a lifelong passion for airplanes. He got an opportunity to bring mechanic experiences in the bicycle, motorcycle, and auto industries to aviation maintenance. Whether it’s working with the team to install an engine, wiring in the latest avionics, or continuing his training for a private pilot license he wants to be immersed in flight. That, paired with an organization that wants to change the world is his dream come true.
James Whitehill
James is a recent RIT Industrial Design graduate that started his career in the fine furniture industry. He worked on woodworking projects for residential and commercial spaces with contributions including design ideation and iteration, as well as CAD drawing and CNC manufacturing. He has always been interested in creating functional, beautiful objects that eliminate problems and annoyances. At BETA, his role is to support the recharge pad team with building and problem-solving. Outside of work, James loves all outdoor activities, especially skiing and mountain biking.
Lino Verna
Private Pilot - SELLino has taken apart almost every single thing he’s ever owned. Some things he’s put back together, others he’s even made better. BETA provides an awesome extension of this habit – understand it, design it, build it, test it, make it better. While not working or flying, you might find him with his family, in his machine shop, or on his tractor. He also finds writing in the third person exhausting.
Jordan Potvin
Student Pilot (Airplane & Helicopter)At BETA, Jordan is a project manager, electrical engineer, and drone pilot. He’s always looking to take on new challenges and improve his skill set. He enjoys big challenges and celebrating little victories. If he’s not at the office or in the field flying scale models, you can usually find him enjoying the waters of Lake Champlain or the views offered by the Green Mountains.
Stephen Beams
Student PilotFrom antique fabric airplanes to turbine-powered helicopters, Steve keeps’em flying. A holder of an FAA airframe and powerplant certification with Inspection Authorization, he’s been passed down the love of aviation from his father who was a naval aviator. When he’s not kicking around the hangar, he’s hanging with the family or stopping hockey pucks.
Luke Randall
Luke is an Airframe & Powerplant Mechanic and has his Inspection Authorization (IA) certificate. Luke has worked for private companies as an A&P Mechanic maintaining certified aircraft. He supports keeping BETA’s certified aircraft flying. Additionally, Luke lends his skills and hands to the development of the aircraft of the future.
Georgia Boylan
Georgia has experience in various types of procurement, starting in the food and beverage industry, then followed by OEM and R&D manufacturing in the metals industry. Georgia is excited to be a part of the BETA team, and use her past knowledge to help the team move forward. Georgia enjoys cooking, and the outdoors. She spends her summers hiking and winters skiing.
Nate Dubie
Commercial Pilot - Helicopter, CFI, CFIINate Dubie is one of our Helicopter Certified Flight Instructors. He loves sharing the challenge of hovering and vertical flight with our team. On the weekends he is a Senior Army Aviator in the National Guard flying the UH60 Blackhawk and UH72 Lakota. Additionally, as a good Vermonter should, in his free time he manages a large maple syrup orchard with his family.
Tanner Bechard
Tanner has a bachelor’s degree in mechanical and manufacturing engineering from Morehead State University. He worked at a custom CNC machine shop where I learned how to program and operate all types of CNC machines. He currently works at the Valley shop where he makes parts for the aircraft and helps with upcoming manufacturing projects. Tanner was born and raised in Georgia, Vermont. I am very excited to be a part of such an exciting and impressive company as BETA.
Zachary Fraser
Student Pilot AirplaneZachary came to BETA from the auto body world, bringing over 15 years of experience and knowledge in all aspects of bodywork, painting and refinishing. Along with making things smooth and shiny, he brings lots of hands on skills to the team, always striving to help wherever needed.
Chris Doyle
Student Pilot (Helicopter), Private Pilot - SEL, Private Pilot - SESDoyle has a lifetime passion for aviation. He earned a Finance and Business Management degree from Syracuse U but always preferred hands on work to crunching numbers. Landing a summer job as an apprentice aircraft mechanic for Jim Parker Airshows provided the opportunity to learn to fly eventually flying his 1947 Luscombe airplane across America. After 24 years as a prototype engineer at Burton Snowboards BETA called (well, texted actually) and he jumped at the chance to be part of the future of Aviation.
Lan Vu
Student Pilot Helicopter, Private Pilot - SELLan is an electrical engineer, turning wrenches, building high voltage batteries, and flight testing. Before Beta she worked in the defense industry, working on nuclear submarines and mine resistant ambush protected vehicles. She once volunteered to trailer Ava’s fuselage across the country in 51 hours and then made the same trip once she earned her private pilot license in a Cessna 182 in 18 hours. In her free time she loves to explore the beautiful state of Vermont with her family.
Matt Sheppard
Private Pilot - SELMatt studied Computer Science at Clarkson University, since then he’s worked professionally with software in many industries. Now at BETA he works with flight and system data collected to ensure the safety of our pilots and the performance of our aircraft.
Caroline Kirkland
Student PilotCaroline just graduated from NCSU with a BS in mechanical engineering where she participated in FSAE on the manufacturing and suspension teams. At BETA she is focused on battery testing and electrical systems. When not at work Caroline enjoys cooking, working out at a local gym, and hiking with lots of layers while she acclimates to New England weather. Volume control isn’t her forte so, despite a quieter electric aircraft in the hangar, colleagues are still encouraged to wear hearing protection.
Nick Austin
Nick works with the electrical team at BETA building and testing electronics. He’s worked in the field of electrical assembly and test for over 10 years and holds an associates degree in Electrical Engineering Technology and a bachelor’s degree in Web Design and Development. In his spare time he enjoys woodworking, aerial photography, and the endless pursuit to break 90 at the local golf courses.
Leslie Ofsuryk
Leslie comes to us with 16 years of Manufacturing experience and has spent the last 8 years in Supply Chain. She enjoys every aspect of working within a Supply Chain Team and learning new products.
Riley Griffin
Student PilotRiley’s focus at BETA revolves around the design, analysis, and integration of novel electric aircraft. Riley received his BS and MS in Mechanical Engineering from Tufts University and worked as a research engineer at Aurora Flight Sciences prior to joining BETA. Riley’s expertise includes aerodynamic modeling, performance analysis, structural load testing, early morning mountain biking, backcountry skiing, restoring vintage audio equipment, and working on his 1800s farmhouse in Vermont.
Laura Caputo
Commercial Pilot - SELLaura spent 15 years flying in the military, and 2 years in the corporate world. She holds her Multi-engine Commercial and Airline Transport Certificates with type ratings in DC-10, Lear-35, and Gulfstream-IV aircraft. She teaches Ground School courses for BETA and mostly spends her time hoping the experiences and knowledge she’s picked up along the way can be shared with other team members, and contribute in some positive way to Team BETA.
Ryan Ober
Ryan works in graphic + web design, video, audio and anything else he can drum up. He recently flew a helicopter for 7 minutes and is now excited to begin actual pilot training. Outside work, Ryan enjoys being with his family, playing guitars, and then more graphic design.
Eric Beauregard
Eric started his career in the USAF as a Crew Chief on heavy cargo aircraft before working for BF Goodrich and Boeing on 727, 737, and 757 aircraft as a Flight-line Mechanic. He derailed into the plastic injection molding industry working in R&D for 20 years before BETA got him back on track! Outside of work, Eric loves to spend time with his family hunting, fishing, raising beef cattle on their farm, and playing music with his 3 children.
Nathan Wiegman
Student Pilot (Helicopter)Nathan is a member of the battery team, focusing on electrical, mechanical, and abuse testing. He thinks this is the best job ever, mostly because he routinely gets to play with high voltage and explosions. He also once rode a motorcycle from Shanghai to Moscow, because why not?
Mike Bandy
Bandy has spent his professional life directing fast-paced procurement and operations traffic in the power electronics and semiconductor industries while simultaneously working to establish strong and dynamic relationships with the supplier base. Craves operational excellence and logical, systematic flow of day-to-day business. When away from BETA you can find him conducting culinary experiments for his family and obsessing over his record collection pondering if life would be any different had Prince kept the bass track in ‘When Doves Cry’.
Peter Gottlieb
Private Pilot - SELPeter is an electromechanical systems engineer focused on developing safe, high energy battery systems for electric flight. His previous experience includes leading the electrical engineering teams at A123 Systems and Vionx Energy. Peter earned his degree from MIT. In his spare time, he develops innovative techniques for RF amplification and power measurement.
Melissa Morris
Student PilotMelissa is a recent college graduate of UMASS Lowell with a degree in mechanical engineering. She is currently part of the stator team at BETA. Outside of work she enjoys baking, traveling, and listening to Broadway musicals.
Casey Hammond
Casey comes to BETA with 10+ years of experience in the automotive technician field. He utilizes his skills and experience of mechanical knowledge to aid in all types of skilled and detailed hands on work, specifically manufacturing electric motors. Outside of work, Casey can be found (maple) sugaring, hanging out with his family, and enjoying the outdoors.
David Churchill
Private Pilot - SELDave is a jack of all trades if by trades you mean mechanical design, analysis, fabrication, testing, and writing software. Dave’s very first job was in Aerospace, designing wind tunnel test models for Boeing. He then spent 30 years testing out a few other careers including a University Faculty member researching total hip and knee replacements, and developing inertial navigation sensors. He finally joined Beta after concluding that Aerospace was the best choice after all. Dave describes BETA as a “Great team with a big vision, strong on smarts, minimal bullshit.”
Cullen Jemison
Student PilotCullen is an electrical engineer and embedded software engineer with prior work experience designing smart-grid IoT devices. He graduated from UVM in 2019, where he studied electrical engineering. While at UVM, Cullen designed, built, and drove electric race cars. Outside of work, Cullen enjoys working on his electronics projects, skiing, and playing the saxophone.
Brettan Martelle
Brettan has a background in systems engineering, airplane certification, and air safety. Before coming to BETA, she spent 15 years at Boeing, with most of that time on the 737 and 777 airplane programs as a lead engineer and company DER and the rest on the Airplane Safety team working with the NTSB on major crash investigations. Outside of work, Brettan enjoys being in the mountains hiking or skiing or playing pond hockey with her daughters.
David Lavery
David is working on component quality control. He has spent the last 15 years in the aviation MRO industry as a machinist and quality control inspector. He has a passion for all things aviation. If he runs into you while walking, it’s probably because he’s looking up at an aircraft somewhere in the sky.
Brandon White
Brandon is a mechanical engineer who has spent the last 8 years in a design and development role specializing in thermal and structural design and analysis. Falling back on solid engineering principles, he has a passion for solving some of the more diverse and challenging problems in the simplest way possible. Outside of work, you can find him deep in the woods hiking, hunting, or fishing.
Tom Orner
Tom is responsible for accounting and financial reporting at Beta. When not in the office you can find him enjoying all the great outdoor activities Vermont has to offer.
Sarah Overfield
Sarah is a mechanical engineer with experience in design, development, and analysis. Problem solving is the favorite part of her day. When not working, she prefers to be outside hiking, skiing, kayaking, soccer, etc.
Jill Gagne
Student PilotJill has a BS in Software Engineering. She comes from the Healthcare IT industry where she led a global team of 400+ employees that developed Electronic Health Records and Practice Management Systems. She has over 25 years of software industry experience ranging from software testing and programming to project and people management. At BETA, Jill works with the engineering team focusing on communication and formalizing and streamlining development processes. Jill is an avid sailboat racer and hiker.
Sam Crites
Student PilotCurrently studying computer engineering at Northwestern, Sam’s experience is in software and embedded systems. In the past few years, he’s developed drone systems and firmware, developed commercial IoT devices, designed and built a 3D printer and lead his high school robotics team. In his free time, he loves sailing, playing electric guitar, and refusing to get a a haircut.
Alex Goodchild
Alex has spent the last several years integrating field experience with formal education, specifically on UAV’s and ROV’s, from an electrical, and use case background. Team work and exploration are his passion, and make work meaningful. At Beta, he works with the scale model team, building, planning tests, and assisting to get aircraft of the ground! His free time is spent exercising in any way, building, listening and playing music, flying RC, and enjoying life with his family!
Blain Newton
Blain is responsible for Finance and Operations here at BETA having spent most of his professional life leading global healthcare technology companies. After spending a lot of time as a kid around aircraft at the 174th in Syracuse, NY, he is excited to be learning to fly and helping to transform aviation with the rest of the BETA team. Outside of work he’s either dreaming of fly fishing or trying to keep up with his wife and 2 young kiddos on the mountain.
Alex Scaperotta
CFIAlex is a mechanical engineer who has spent the past eight years soaring the green mountains. At BETA, Alex combines his knowledge and passion to build and test the next generation of electric propulsion. When he’s not at work, you’ll probably find him dangling off the side of a cliff or hunting for untracked snow.
Sean Donovan
Student Pilot (Helicopter)Sean is a mechanical engineer focused on all aspects of electric aircraft design and builds at BETA. His previous experience includes extensive high precision and high-speed aerospace and automotive automation design. In his free time, you’ll find him in a custom-built camper van down by the river.
Josh Auerbach
Student PilotJosh is a computational scientist with expertise in software engineering, machine learning, robotics, and stochastic optimization. Before joining BETA he was Assistant Professor of Computer Science and Innovation at Champlain College and a Postdoctoral Researcher in the Laboratory of Intelligent Systems at EPFL in Switzerland. When he’s not working you’ll probably find him out in the mountains: climbing, hiking, biking, or huffing uphill on his splitboard in search of steep lines and deep powder.
Al Pfaff
Al has spent most of his career doing test engineering in the plastics industry and is continuing that type of work at BETA. He loves hands-on engineering and making things work. Outside of work he enjoys spending time with family, being a weekend warrior around the house, woodshop, and woods while trying to fit in some hunting, fishing, and flying.
Greg Leech
Greg brings to BETA over 30 years of construction experience. He’s been a project manager for 25 years. He’s worked for large civil/heavy construction firms, large construction management companies, and the University of Vermont. Immediately before coming to BETA, he oversaw UVM’s $72M dorm project and the $7M addition to the Grossman School of Business and a few projects for CEMS. He also worked on the Green Mountain Club’s suspension bridge over the Winooski. Today at BETA he oversees the renovations, fit-ups, additions to the physical plant.
Manon Belzile
Student Pilot (Helicopter)Manon is a mechanical engineer with a love for analysis, software, hardware, validation, and things that make noise. She typically starts her day by climbing Mt. Mansfield before dawn or waking up the loons on the lake with her rowing shell.
Chip Palombini
Commercial Pilot - SEL, Commercial Pilot - SESChip’s passion for flight developed at iTherm where he designed high-frequency power electronics out of a motel room while staring at a J-3 on floats. iTherm was acquired by Dynapower. At Dynapower Chip was the Director of the Energy Storage Group and managed business development, marketing, sales, product development, certification, intellectual property, and managed critical global supply chain. Chip has over 30 patents globally. When he can’t be found flying he’s usually pedaling a bike to get a pastry and a latte.
Stuart Schreiber
Student PilotStuart has a passion for environmental sustainability. He has spent his entire professional life in Product Development delivering products that contribute to a greener world. His experience began at Ford Motor Company where he worked on many aspects of electrified propulsion and focused on HV battery design. He continues his pursuit of sustainability at home where he continues to grow his family homestead which provides food, heat, and energy for his growing family.
Herman Wiegman
Private Pilot - SELHerman’s expertise is in technical analysis of power and control systems, construction of multidisciplinary models that directly feed real designs. Before BETA he worked on energy storage for GE Global Research where he was Principal Engineer in their Electric Power Technology Center.
Vincent Moeykens
Private Pilot - SELVincent is a recent graduate of UVM where he studied computer science and math. At BETA, he works on developing high fidelity simulators, and resilient telemetry networks. He is also a licensed pilot and has been flying gliders since before he could drive. In his free time, he volunteers as an Advanced EMT on local rescue squads.
Miranda Ladue
Student PilotMiranda has a degree in business from the University of Vermont. She has worked in the healthcare industry for over 15 years in a variety of roles that include: managing EHR implementations at major health networks, running product development for a $200M EHR product, and running product and operations for multi-national healthcare analytics company. At BETA, Miranda builds and supports the operations infrastructure that allows the team to build electric aircraft at scale.
Braedon Lohe
Student PilotWith experience building electrified race cars at UVM, working at a small electronics manufacturer, and testing the latest generation of plug-in hybrids at Ford, Braedon brings battery know-how, electro-mechanical integration experience, and testing & validation knowledge to the BETA team. When not at BETA’s KBTV headquarters, Braedon can usually be found working on one of his vehicles or, in the winter, out on his snowboard.
Steven Orisko
Student PilotSteven is an autobody guru utilizing his toolbox of skills to make presentation models and assist with anything on the airplane. When he’s not hanging around the hanger, he’s out plowing snow or digging with his excavator like a kid in a sandbox.
Cole Hanson
Private Pilot - SEL, Private Pilot - SESCole is a recent grad of UVM in Mechanical Engineering, which he applies to research, design, and development of our aircraft recharging station. He designed and built an electric go-cart with the torque of a mid-sized snow-blower. We keep it on-site for late-night pizza runs.
Mike Mastrandrea
Mike has spent the past four years quenching his thirst for knowledge in mathematics and finance at MIT. He leverages what he has learned in support of the finance team and anywhere else he can contribute within the business. He spends the majority of his free time flying, racing sailboats, restoring and racing vintage cars, and skiing.
Morgan Randall
Morgan has worked in many facets of human services. She has a Master’s Degree in Psychology. Morgan supports Beta with whatever needs doing mostly in the scope of working with the people. She is intrigued by the remarkable vision of Beta and the amazing people on the fast track. Morgan enjoys traveling, cooking, hiking, and spending time with family.
Dale Williams
Private Pilot - SELDale has worked in a variety of electrical, mechanical, and building control engineering roles. In addition to engineering, he has extensive experience in carpentry, plumbing, high-efficiency heating systems, and metal fabrication. Outside of work he enjoys restoring classic vehicles and travels the world touring on motorcycles. At BETA he designs, builds, and tests electrical and mechanical systems.
Michael Camire
Student PilotMichael is Master Craftsman and Carpenter who owned his own remodeling company for over 25 yrs. He is also experienced in Electrical and plumbing. His role at BETA is building the re-charge pads and control centers.
Jeff Solomon
Jeff has over 25 years of experience with Quality Systems in the aerospace industry. He is a certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt and has worked at Collins Aerospace and General Dynamics. He is an adjunct lecturer in Statistics at UVM. In his spare time, he paddles Dragon Boats (has been to two world championships so far), plays golf, and bicycles.
Matt Harris
During a career that has taken him through aerospace, consumer goods, tooling, and sporting goods, Matt’s passion has been making things better, faster, and cheaper. When not at work he can be found with his family on top of a mountain or hanging from a thin thread deep within a cave or canyon.
Collin Freiheit
Collin’s professional passions include control system design and implementation. He graduated from UVM in 2020 with an MS in mechanical engineering. Shortly after graduating, Collin built a quad copter equipped with a custom 8-bit flight controller.
Morgan Gomez
Morgan has a degree focused on UAV’s (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles) along with a background of working on underwater robotic systems and ROV’s (Remotely Operated Vehicles). He enjoys the learning experience from solving problems and has gained experience ranging from PCB design and programming to designing and building carbon fiber parts. When not at work, Morgan can be found tinkering on his mountain bike or sitting too close to his vintage stereo.