Our Team
Zachary Gaines has built a commendable track record in space systems engineering and satellite technology. As the Principal Investigator at MoonFALL, he spearheaded projects that won NASA's TechLeap Nighttime Precision Landing Challenge #1, focusing on mapping the dark side of the moon. His leadership as Project Manager at Bronco Ember resulted in the creation of an award-winning AI/Edge Computing wildfire detection system. Furthermore, at Bronco Space, Zachary directed the BLADE program, leading high altitude balloon research missions. His engineering prowess was evident as he led the development and testing of an orbital CubeSat, integrating AI and machine learning. Alongside these achievements, Zachary has been recognized at symposiums and has contributed as a co-author at the Small Satellite Conference.
Michael Pham has demonstrated significant expertise in satellite technology and space systems engineering through his tenure at Bronco Space. As the Co-Investigator for both the MoonFALL project and the Bronco Ember Autonomous Wildfire Detection initiative, he played pivotal roles in the design, development, and execution of innovative systems, earning recognition through the NASA TechLeap Prize. In his position as the Chief Engineer for BroncoSat-1, Michael led a team of 35 students to pioneer the application of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in Low Earth Orbit. This groundbreaking mission, originating from Cal Poly Pomona, encompassed extensive design, testing, and deployment efforts, notably adapting to challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic. As Bronco Space's founding president and program director, Michael oversaw diverse projects, encompassing high-altitude balloon research, Cube Satellite development, and STEM outreach. He possesses notable skills in program management, PCB design, systems engineering, and proposal writing, reflecting his comprehensive and multifaceted contributions to the space industry.
Maximum Wilder-Smith currently holds a Software Engineering position at ARIS, focusing on the Nautilus project. Prior to this, he served in Pomona, California, as the AI Research Director for Bronco Space and undertook an internship as a Software Engineer at Miso Robotics in Pasadena. With proficient skills in the Robot Operating System (ROS), motion planning, and Python, he has showcased his versatility in the tech sector. His tenure at BadVR further reflects his adaptability, where he specialized in Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), Node.js, Python, Unity3D, and SQL. Beyond this, he's had roles at California State Polytechnic University-Pomona as an IT Student Assistant, taught at Magikid Robotics Lab, and participated as a Clinical Trial Associate at Retina-Vitreous Associates Medical Group. Maximum's vast range of experiences exemplifies his multidisciplinary approach in the intersection of technology, education, and healthcare.
Hugo Delgado has contributed significantly to both the aerospace and finance sectors. In his current role as Asc. Project Manager for Lockheed Martin's Advanced Development Program, "Skunk Works," Hugo is responsible for leading strategic and innovative projects. Previously, he served in Lockheed Martin's Military Space division, managing diverse government and commercial subcontracts with a focus on compliance with regulations such as ITAR, FAR, and DFARS. His tenure at ClearPath Business Advisors working in M&A Middle Market Advisory showcased his versatility, where he engaged in projects from ERP implementations to market analysis. As Project Manager at BroncoSpace in Pomona, CA, Hugo played a critical role in establishing a new business division, along with leading fundraising and outreach initiatives. Throughout his career, Hugo has been recognized for his strategic thinking, collaborative efforts, and effective leadership, making valuable contributions in each of his roles.