"The last two to three years have brought more change to the satellite industry than the previous two decades combined." – Tim Winter

In this episode of Mission Critical, Katherine Jerald sits down with Tim Winter, CEO of iDirect Government, to discuss the massive disruptions shaping the satellite communications (SATCOM) industry and what they mean for government, defense, and commercial players.

Tim shares insights on how companies can compete in a rapidly evolving market, the role of LEO vs. GEO satellites, and why secure, multi-orbit communications are crucial for military operations. Drawing from his 20+ years in SATCOM and his experience as a Naval flight officer, Tim offers a unique perspective on innovation, risk management, and what the future holds for satellite technology.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

· How industry disruption—from Starlink to Kuiper—is reshaping SATCOM

· Why secure, multi-orbit solutions are essential for government and defense

· The challenges of VC-funded space startups and how to stand out

· The real risks of satellite communications in modern warfare

· Lessons from Tim’s military career that shape his leadership today

· How the next generation of space technology will impact global defense strategies

If you’re in the satellite industry, government defense, or simply curious about the future of space-based communications, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss.

Connect with Tim Winter:

www.idirectgov.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-winter-557723

Get connected with your host, Katherine Jerald:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/katherinejerald/

https://elraysearch.com/

This podcast is proudly produced in partnership with podlad.com