Matt Ondler is the Chief Technology Officer at Axiom Space, where he leads the development of spacecraft for the world's first commercial space station. With a career spanning over three decades, Ondler has held significant roles at NASA and co-founded Houston Mechatronics. His extensive experience in aerospace engineering and leadership has been instrumental in advancing space exploration and technology.
Who is the CTO of Axiom Space?
With a robust background in aerospace engineering and leadership, Matt Ondler has significantly contributed to the space industry. He began his career at NASA, where he spent nearly three decades in various roles, including leading the Software, Robotics, and Simulation Division and managing Project Morpheus. Ondler's expertise extends beyond NASA; he co-founded Houston Mechatronics, where he served as president, and held a senior executive position at Stinger Ghaffarian Technologies. Currently, as the Chief Technology Officer at Axiom Space, Ondler is at the forefront of developing the world's first commercial space station, leveraging his extensive experience to push the boundaries of space exploration.
Work History
- Axiom Space - President (September 2023 to Present)
- Axiom Space - Chief Technology Officer (January 2020 to September 2023)
- Houston Mechatronics, Inc. (now Nauticus Robotics) - President/CEO (April 2014 to September 2019)
- Stinger Ghaffarian Technologies (SGT) - Program Director (March 2012 to April 2015)
- NASA - Assistant Director Engineering, Advanced Projects Development (January 2011 to March 2012)
- NASA - Project Manager, Project M / Morpheus (November 2009 to June 2011)
- NASA - Division Chief, Software, Robotics, and Simulation Division (June 2007 to January 2011)
- NASA - Division Chief, Biomedical Systems Division (June 2006 to June 2007)
- NASA - Deputy Division Chief, Aeroscience and Flight Mechanics Division (January 2001 to June 2006)
- NASA - Various (June 1986 to January 2001)
Education History
Matt Ondler's educational journey began at the University of Colorado Boulder, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering between 1983 and 1986. This foundational education in aerospace engineering set the stage for his future contributions to the field. Ondler furthered his academic credentials by pursuing an MBA at the University of Houston from 1988 to 1993. This combination of technical expertise and business acumen has been pivotal in his leadership roles within the aerospace industry.
When did Matt Ondler join Axiom Space?
Matt Ondler joined Axiom Space in early 2020, shortly before NASA announced a significant contract award to the company. He became the Chief Technology Officer on January 1, 2020, and held this position until September 1, 2023, when he transitioned to the role of President. As of now, Ondler has been with Axiom Space for nearly four years, contributing his extensive expertise in aerospace engineering and leadership to the development of the world's first commercial space station.