AURA Network Systems makes senior appointments
AURA Network Systems has appointed Kevin Steen as CEO and and Walter Berger as executive chairman of the board.
Steen brings more than two decades’ experience in delivering communications solutions. Previously, he served as president and CEO of the combined Eutelsat America Corp. and OneWeb Technologies entity. Earlier, as CEO of iDirect, Steen led the satellite industry’s first high-throughput satellite ground segment platform.
“AURA’s dedication to developing vital infrastructure solutions for all of aviation is remarkable, and it’s a privilege to be a part of such an impressive team that continues to achieve significant milestones,” said Steen.
“For example, the publication of RTCA DO-406 – which establishes UHF radio performance standards for Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS) command and control – and the recent successful flight testing using our network as the primary radio link for mission-critical communications exemplify the pioneering work being done here. With Walter’s leadership alongside me, I am confident we will continue to break new ground and drive AURA forward in the aviation sector.”
Berger has held senior roles at companies like AppDynamics, SoftLayer and Leap Wireless, including its subsidiary Cricket Wireless. As President and Co-CEO at Kymeta Corporation, Berger launched the first commercially successful metamaterial flat-panel antenna and several first-to-market products, widely adopted by the Department of Defense, government, enterprise and maritime customers globally.
“I am excited to be part of AURA’s continued evolution,” said Berger. “Our private network is uniquely positioned to support both crewed and uncrewed aviation. With our dedicated frequencies and patented spectrum management system, we are setting new standards in aviation communication infrastructure. I am also pleased to welcome Kevin, whose innovative approach and deep industry knowledge will propel AURA toward achieving its mission of enhancing autonomy and safety within national airspace.”
Michael Palmer, a member of AURA’s board since inception, added: “The selection of Walter by the board and his subsequent choice of Kevin as CEO represent transformative moments for AURA. Their combined expertise and strategic vision will be instrumental in driving AURA’s progress and innovation. The board and I are grateful to outgoing CEO and co-founder Bill Tolpegin, who will continue to serve the company as senior advisor, contributing to our business development and regulatory affairs efforts. We also thank Tim Donahue, our outgoing board chairman, for his outstanding leadership. Both Bill and Tim have been pivotal in bringing AURA to where it is today.”
