Our Keynote Speakers -
Working on the Frontier to Space!
Arturo Machuca
Director Houston Spaceport and Ellington Airport
As the Director of Ellington Airport and Houston Spaceport, Arturo Machuca is a tireless advocate of commercial space and a dedicated leader in the aerospace and aviation community. His efforts and leadership have been crucial to the rapid growth of the Houston Spaceport over the past seven years.
Under his leadership, the Houston Spaceport has become the fastest-growing commercial spaceport in the country. In doing so, it has become a major economic driver, injecting millions of dollars and hundreds of jobs into the regional economy. Tenants at the Spaceport are involved in virtually every aspect of commercial space, from planetary science to low-earth orbit and lunar activities.
Arturo is recognized in the industry as an innovator and thought leader. In August 2022, Governor Greg Abbott appointed Arturo Machuca to the Aerospace and Aviation Advisory Committee to assist in the State’s economic development efforts to recruit and retain aerospace and aviation jobs and investments in Texas.
With over 30 years of aerospace and aviation industry experience including commercial airlines, corporate aviation, airport business, and commercial spaceports. Arturo joined the Houston Airport System in 2009. His roles have included airport operations, planning and strategy, economic development, and business relations for all three airports.
He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Hotels and Tourism Administration from Universidad Regiomontana. Arturo and his wife have three children and reside in Friendswood.
Beth Mund
Executive Director, STORIES of Space
Beth Mund is a recognized expert in space exploration and story application. She owns her company, Stellar Communications, and is an influential keynote speaker. Beth is the Executive Director of the STORIES of Space Non-Profit, which provides direct access to space through innovative story submissions. In 2024, STORIES of Space worked with Aegis Aerospace to deliver 300+ stories to the International Space Station.
Beth’s work at NASA as a science communication advisor helped shape her career in the space industry. As a Public Affairs Officer, Beth helped tell the story of the International Space Station, wrote speeches for astronauts, and showcased the technology, projects, and people at NASA’s Johnson Space Center.
Beth is the host and creator of the Casual Space Podcast, delivering insightful conversations with astronauts, artists, scientists, and explorers. Beth serves as an analog astronaut on simulation locations including “Mars” in Hawaii, Biosphere2 in Arizona, and the “Moon” in Poland.
Note from the Host: Unfortunately Stephanie Murphy will not be able to provide her keynote. Beth will step in to deliver a keynote covering Aegis Aerospace and other Space STORIES!