Leadership
Alex Hilger, Founder & CEO
Alex brings deep expertise in 3D scanning and LiDAR technology to Space Grid AI. While working on the New Glenn rocket program at Blue Origin, Alex lived through the “hair on fire” problem of managing constantly shifting industrial spaces—an experience that inspired him to tackle this challenge head-on. Prior to that he worked at AEye, an automotive LiDAR company, where he honed his skills in 3D mapping and problem-solving. With a degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Maryland, Alex combines hands-on experience and visionary thinking to revolutionize space planning for dynamic industries.
Stephanie Chiesi, Chief of Strategic Partnerships
Stephanie brings decades of leadership and expertise to Space Grid AI. Currently serving as Senior Director of Engineering at General Atomics, Stephanie has held prestigious roles such as Director of Digital Engineering at Blue Origin, Chief Digital Engineer at SAIC, and Senior Principal Systems Engineer at Raytheon Technologies. A triple alumna of MIT, with bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Aeronautics and Astronautics, she is also completing her PhD in Systems Engineering at Stevens Institute of Technology. With her unparalleled network, deep knowledge of digital transformation, and expertise in integrating solutions into enterprise-level digital ecosystems, Stephanie drives strategic partnerships that position Space Grid AI at the forefront of industry innovation.
Sue Hilger, VP, Account Management
Sue is a senior marketing strategist with 20+ years of experience leading brand, growth, and go-to-market efforts across industries. She’s worked closely with sales teams—or led them outright—to build high-impact campaigns that drive measurable results. Prior to consulting with companies on positioning, performance, and storytelling, Sue served as Chief Marketing Officer at Adaptive Rehab and VP of Marketing at ViTel Net. She holds an MBA from NYU and a BA from Connecticut College. A connector at heart, Sue brings a creative, collaborative spirit to every team she joins and is especially passionate about helping organizations unlock their full market potential.
Andrew Johnson, Head of Product
Andrew brings proven Unity development and software architecture expertise to Space Grid AI, having delivered critical solutions for NASA, Boeing, the U.S. Army, and U.S. Air Force. He architected virtual maintenance trainers and VR simulations that eliminated reliance on physical equipment. At Engineering & Computer Simulations, Andrew engineered mission-critical applications for Air Force personnel and advanced VR training systems. With a Bachelor's in Game Development from Full Sail University and deep expertise in C#, Unity API, and VR development, Andrew leads technical innovation to drive Space Grid AI's platform evolution.
Chris Gaughan, Operations & Strategy Lead
Chris is a technology manager on the project and program scale with previous experience at deploying innovative and emerging SaaS technologies focused on spatial computing for aerospace, facility planning, logistics, and reliability maintenance engineering. His focus is on impact of work for cutting edge technologies, which he has done so as a program manager at both Amazon and Blue Origin. Previous to his time in aerospace and logistics, he lead startup teams with enterprise products for K-12 education and pediatrics for the Glimpse Group. He is deeply familiar with the principles of innovation, technology adoption, and product market fit, with a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Information Systems from SNHU and a Master’s in Operations from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.