Episode 10: A Hero and Pioneer: The Inspiring Story of Gunther Karger

Today, we are honored to interview the esteemed Gunther Karger. Mr. Karger’s story is both amazing and diverse, starting with his birth and early years in Germany, where he narrowly escaped death on the last children’s transport out of Germany to Sweden. Shortly after his departure, his parents and grandparents were murdered by the Nazis.

After WWII, and moving from several foster homes and orphanages,  young Karger was sent to the U.S. where he later joined the Air Force, becoming an instructor in aircraft radars. He earned a degree in electrical engineering at LSU and quickly advanced in the aerospace industry working in the missile and space program. Mr. Karger was one of three engineers which developed the world’s first communication satellite, and he served in a national security role reporting to the White House and Secretary of Defense during the Cold War. From there, Karger pioneered V/STOL aircraft for the commercial aviation industry and developed a computer model for forecasting revenue for Eastern Airlines, which he managed for 15 years.

Gunther is a Life Senior Member of the IEEE (Institute of Electrical and electronics engineers) and served as its Canaveral Chapter President during the Apollo program. He also is a Fellow of the British Interplanetary Society citing contributions during the early period of America’s space program. During the Cold War, Gunther s named “Outstanding Young Man of America” for his contributions to National Security. Currently, he serves on the Board of directors of Missile, Space, and Range Pioneers manages a hedge fund that specializes in the aero industry and has authored books on his time on Wall Street.

And now, here’s Kevin along with Gunther and his wife, Shirley, to share a little more about his fascinating life.