us space force lt. general john f. thompson will join us at tc sessions: space in december

Our inaugural space-focused event is scheduled for December 16th and 17th, and we are pleased to announce that Lieutenant General John F. Thompson from the U.S. Air Force will be participating in TC Sessions: Space via our virtual platform. General Thompson currently serves as the Commander of the Space and Missile Systems Center (SMC), where he directs the research, design, development, and procurement of satellites and their related command and control infrastructure for the U.S. Space Force.

We are particularly delighted to welcome General Thompson, as his position places him in direct communication with some of the nation’s most innovative and technologically advanced startup companies. He leads the effort to ensure the United States maintains a leading role in critical areas such as advanced missile detection, space launch capabilities, space dominance within the evolving defense sector, and numerous other advancements. He is uniquely positioned within the U.S. defense community to understand the pipeline of emerging and forward-thinking technology development focused on space.

A key accomplishment of General Thompson and the SMC under his leadership has been the creation and expansion of a thriving network of non-traditional space startups. This has been achieved through both contract awards and early-stage investment, supporting the development of innovative solutions to both established and emerging challenges. This work will also serve as the foundation for the forthcoming Space Systems Command (SSC), a command currently under development that will be responsible for the development, acquisition, and deployment of space-based capabilities for the U.S. Space Force. SSC will build upon the SMC’s framework and its Air Force roots, but will function as a new, comprehensive acquisition organization that also addresses the space acquisition requirements of the Army and Navy.

We will be discussing this work with General Thompson, including its progress and how his role and the SMC’s objectives are evolving as the U.S. continues to build the Space Force as a distinct military branch.

If you are interested in hearing from Lt. Gen. Thompson, you can purchase a ticket to gain exclusive access to this session, along with many others, both live and via on-demand video. A ticket also provides opportunities to network with the individuals shaping the space industry, identify promising early-stage companies, learn about grant opportunities for your space business, and explore talent acquisition or job opportunities. Secure an early-bird ticket for $125 before November 13th. We also offer discounts for groups, students, active military and government personnel, and early-stage space startup founders seeking increased visibility for their company.