Steven G. Zylstra, a renowned leader in the technology and innovation sectors, was named to the Arizona Space Commission Board of Directors by the speaker of the Arizona House of Representatives on September 25, 2024. He brings decades of experience and forward-thinking leadership to the Commission, underscoring Arizona’s commitment to advancing its role in the burgeoning space industry.
Zylstra was appointed a member by House Speaker Ben Toma alongside retired U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen. Michael McQuire and Brett Mecum, president and founder of Cadmus Public Affairs LLC. While the speaker named them to two-year terms, the Arizona Senate President, Warren Petersen also appointed Megan Fitzgerald, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Jim Cantrell, CEO and co-founder, Phantom Space Corporation, and Len Munsil, president, Arizona Christian University, to the Commission. 7 vacancies remain to be appointed by the governor.
“It is an honor to be named to the Arizona Space Commission board of directors,” said Zylstra. “This is an exciting time for Arizona and the Commission as we develop a strategic plan for expanding the space, aeronautics and aviation sectors. I look forward to contributing to the state’s leadership in these high-growth areas.”
Zylstra currently serves as the president and CEO of the Arizona Technology Council and SciTech Institute, where he champions the growth and development of technology throughout the state. His leadership has been pivotal in fostering innovation, entrepreneurship and public-private partnerships in Arizona, making him a perfect fit for this new role in shaping the future of space exploration and technology in the region. In addition, Zylstra provides valuable expertise due to more than 20 years’ experience working in the aerospace industry as an engineer and executive, including his role as a technical manager on the attitude control system for the Defense Support Program at Bendix Guidance Systems.
Zylstra already has passed on his interest in space to the next generation. The career of son Zane already has included stops in the U.S. Air Force, National Air and Space Intelligence Center, and now AtlasX, part of the U.S. Space Force’s Space Systems Command.
The Arizona Space Commission was established to oversee and promote the state’s space-related activities, working in collaboration with industry partners, academic institutions, and government agencies. The Commission plays a key role in fostering the development of space technology, infrastructure, and workforce to ensure that Arizona remains at the forefront of this rapidly growing industry.
“I couldn’t be happier to see Steve appointed to the Arizona Space Commission,” Rep. Justin Wilmeth, Arizona District 2. “Bringing this commission to life has been a labor of love for me because I see it as being a key driver to the future of Arizona’s economy. Steve is already a premier leader and expert on the technology and innovation front. His presence on the ASC means great things for our state in the realm of space commerce.”
Zylstra continues to be a vocal advocate for STEM education and has spearheaded numerous initiatives aimed at fostering a tech-savvy workforce ready to tackle the challenges of the future. His extensive network within the technology and innovation communities will be instrumental in driving Arizona’s ambitions in space-related industries.
