As the world transitions towards a more sustainable energy mix, the role of airborne wind energy systems (AWES) is becoming increasingly important. By harnessing the power of the wind at higher altitudes by using only a fraction of material compared to traditional wind turbines, AWES can provide a cost-effective and scalable renewable energy solution. This can reduce reliance on fossil fuels and help to mitigate the impacts of climate change. AWES can also provide energy to areas that are currently off-grid or underserved, increasing access to sustainable energy sources. With the increasing demand for renewable energy solutions, Kitepower has the potential to disrupt the market and provide a competitive alternative to traditional wind turbines and other renewable energy technologies.

As we continue to work towards our mission of revolutionising wind energy, we recognize the importance of investing in our team. That’s why we have been rapidly expanding our team, bringing on board the skills and expertise needed to make our vision a reality.

Let’s take a closer look at Kitepower’s recent team expansion, and explore what it means for the future of the company. Kitepower’s recent team expansion has brought on board some key talent to drive the company forward in its mission to revolutionise wind energy. Among the new hires are a Chief Operations Officer, a Senior Product Manager, and a Flight Test Manager.

As new Chief Operations Officer (COO), Walter Hueber will be responsible for overseeing Kitepower’s operations, ensuring that the company is running smoothly and efficiently. This includes managing the company’s supply chain, production processes, and logistics, as well as working closely with other departments to ensure that all aspects of the business are aligned and working towards a common goal. Waler will play a crucial role in helping Kitepower scale up its operations and take its technology to market – (more about Walter).

As Senior Product Manager, Eduard IJsselmuiden will be responsible for leading the development and commercialisation of Kitepower’s products. This includes defining the product roadmap, working with the engineering team to design and build the products, and bringing them to market. Eduard will also be responsible for managing the product lifecycle, ensuring that Kitepower’s products meet customer needs and are competitive in the marketplace. This role is crucial for Kitepower as it looks to bring one of the first airborne wind energy systems to market and establish itself as a leader in the field – (more about Eduard).

The Flight Test Manager role will be covered by Andrei Luca who will be responsible for overseeing Kitepower’s flight testing program. This includes designing and executing flight tests to validate Kitepower’s technology, analysing flight data to improve performance, and working with the engineering team to implement improvements based on flight test results. Andrei will also be responsible for ensuring that Kitepower’s flight testing program is conducted safely and in compliance with regulatory requirements. This role is crucial for Kitepower as it looks to refine and improve its technology, and move closer to commercialization: “I am here to support Kitepower’s mission and I am looking forward to seeing how innovation in this sector helps to tackle other humanitarian needs around the world, especially in remote communities and in challenging environments”.

Finally, Maëlle Trubert has recently started her Master internship at Kitepower: “My mission here is to help the team carry out as many successful flight tests as possible. This, in order to improve the usability of the system and make it more reliable before large-scale use.”. While clearly in line with Maelle’s aerospace engineering background she happily points out how Kitepower’s mission fits her values “..Ecology is a major matter of concern for me and this internship is an opportunity to get involved in actual sustainable development. In this respect, because of climate change, Kitepower is committed to a project which concerns all of us”.

Overall, the addition of these key team members is a significant step forward for Kitepower in its mission to commercialise one of the first airborne wind energy systems ever. With the team’s expertise and experience, Kitepower is well-positioned to take on the challenges ahead and make a significant impact in the renewable energy sector.