In this episode, we welcome Jeff Thornburg, co-founder of Portal Space Systems, who shares his inspiring journey from a small town in Southern Illinois to the aerospace industry. He discusses his early life, growing up in a community with strong agricultural and mining roots, and how supportive family and teachers fueled his passion for science, math, and technology. Jeff recounts his educational path, including receiving an ROTC scholarship for aerospace engineering at what is now the Missouri University of Science and Technology. He reflects on his transition from academia to a commissioned officer in the US Air Force, where he got hands-on experience with aircraft like the KC-135. Join us as we explore Jeff's motivations and the pivotal moments that led him to co-found a company dedicated to advancing space systems.
