Hangar X Studios

In this exhilarating episode of Hangar X Studios, host John Ramstead is joined by Charlie Burgoyne, founder and CEO of Valkyrie, a cutting-edge scientific R&D firm likened to a private DARPA. From miniaturizing a data center to fit inside an Altoids tin and sending it to the moon, to revolutionary breakthroughs in battery tech and graphene materials for aerospace, Charlie unpacks the present and future of innovation.

Charlie shares his experiences across NASA, DARPA, and Valkyrie, exploring AI, defense applications, autonomous vehicles, and the future of air mobility. The conversation weaves deep scientific insights with real-world applications, all rooted in values-driven innovation.

Whether you're a technologist, pilot, investor, or simply curious about where aerospace and materials science are heading, this episode is a masterclass in what's possible when stubborn curiosity meets breakthrough science.

Charlie Burgoyne is the founder and CEO of Valkyrie, a private-sector R&D firm known for solving some of the world’s hardest technical problems. With a background in physics, AI, and defense systems, Charlie has held roles at NASA, DARPA, and Los Alamos National Lab. At Valkyrie, he leads a team of elite scientists tackling complex challenges in aerospace, materials science, and national security. Charlie is passionate about solving mission-critical issues through a framework of American values and deeply invested in building a culture of excellence, grit, and hope.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlie-burgoyne-00843b30/ 

“I jokingly say I’m like the Forrest Gump of science — I’ve been all over the scientific community.”
— Charlie Burgoyne

“You now look at the moon and realize there's a piece of code you wrote living up there.”
— John Ramstead

“Our five values are grit, honor, love, curiosity, and hope — and they show up in everything we do.”
— Charlie Burgoyne

“Autonomous flight is a way easier problem than autonomous driving.”
— Charlie Burgoyne

“The real innovators aren’t thinking 3% year-over-year. They’re breaking that curve altogether.”
— Charlie Burgoyne

In this episode of Hangar X Studios, host John Ramstead welcomes Cassidy Will, founder of Labradorly Marketing, to discuss her journey from recent college graduate to a rising entrepreneur at the heart of North Dakota’s UAS (Unmanned Aircraft Systems) ecosystem. Cassidy shares how her roots in Grand Forks, a fortuitous internship, and a web of community connections led to the creation of her boutique marketing consultancy, now serving key players in the drone and VTOL space.

The conversation delves into the intricacies of marketing within the UAS sector, the pivotal role of events like Verticon and Exponential, and how Cassidy helps early-stage companies like Meadowlark and The Hive build strategic visibility. Packed with insight into the unique business climate of North Dakota and the fast-evolving aerospace innovation landscape, this episode is a must-listen for entrepreneurs, marketers, and aviation professionals alike.

Cassidy Will is the founder of Labradorly Marketing, a boutique marketing and consulting firm based in Grand Forks, North Dakota. A University of North Dakota graduate, Cassidy launched her company in 2021 during the pandemic, drawing on her experience with local startups and the UAS community. Labradorly specializes in strategic marketing for emerging aerospace and drone companies, with clients including The Hive and Meadowlark. Beyond execution, Cassidy focuses on helping pre-revenue and scaling companies navigate messaging, industry positioning, and brand-building.

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

Labradorly Marketing is a boutique marketing and consulting firm based in Grand Forks, North Dakota, specializing in strategic brand development for startups and emerging companies, particularly in the UAS (Unmanned Aircraft Systems) and aerospace sectors. Founded by Cassidy Will, the company offers tailored marketing strategies, digital content, and branding support designed to help businesses gain visibility, build credibility, and engage the right audiences. With deep ties to the local innovation ecosystem, Labradorly Marketing bridges the gap between technology and communication, helping clients grow from early-stage vision to market presence.

“It was never in my plan to be an entrepreneur. I didn’t know how. It seemed just daunting, honestly.” – Cassidy Will

“The Hive is the connector between university, the city, state officials, capital, and companies. It really is one-of-a-kind.” – Cassidy Will

“Conferences in the UAS industry are not just for brand awareness — it’s where deals get done.” – Cassidy Will

“There’s a misconception that you have to leave North Dakota to find opportunity. I’m living proof that’s not true.” – Cassidy Will

“I think I’d like to lean more into the consulting side and work with as many innovative businesses as I can.” – Cassidy Will

In this compelling episode of Hangar X Studios, host John Ramstead sits down with Philippe Lubrano, the dynamic CEO of RotorTrade, a company revolutionizing the pre-owned helicopter market with a streamlined, customer-centric model. From launching in Southeast Asia to expanding globally across the U.S., Europe, and Latin America, Philippe shares how RotorTrade is redefining aircraft transactions through certified pre-owned solutions, trade-ins, leasing, and custom configurations.

He offers rare insight into the inner workings of the helicopter resale ecosystem, the impact of global demand on supply chains, and how their “one-stop-shop” approach—think Carvana for helicopters—is solving key pain points for clients. Philippe also outlines the company's growth pillars and makes a bold prediction: the helicopter industry will thrive through 2030.

Philippe Lubrano is the CEO of RotorTrade, a global pre-owned helicopter dealership known for its innovative, OEM-partnered business model. With over a decade of industry experience, Philippe has led RotorTrade’s expansion from Southeast Asia to Europe, the U.S., Latin America, and the Middle East. Under his leadership, RotorTrade offers certified pre-owned helicopters, bespoke aircraft configurations through MROs, and most recently, a leasing division. He’s a globe-trotting aviation entrepreneur deeply committed to making helicopter transactions transparent, accessible, and customer-focused.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/philippe-lubrano-22468635/ 

Rotortrade is a leading global helicopter dealership specializing in certified pre-owned aircraft. Founded over a decade ago, the company has built a reputation for trust, transparency, and customer-centric solutions. With operations spanning the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific, Rotortrade offers a one-stop-shop experience including sales, leasing, trade-ins, MRO services, and aircraft customization. By partnering directly with OEMs and adopting practices inspired by the automotive industry, Rotortrade delivers high-quality, ready-to-fly helicopters tailored to meet operational demands across the globe.

“We are just trying to make it easy for people… Why make it more complex when you can keep it simple?”
– Philippe Lubrano

“We’ve learned from bad experiences. We want to make sure our customers don’t go through that.”
– Philippe Lubrano

“Until 2030, the helicopter industry is going to do extremely well. All of us.”
– Philippe Lubrano

“When there’s a disaster—fires, floods, hurricanes—what you need is vertical lift, and you need it now.”
– Philippe Lubrano

In this compelling episode of Hangar X Studios, host John Ramstead sits down with former A-10 and MQ-9 Reaper pilot Tammy Barlette, now the founder of Crosscheck Mental Performance Training. Tammy shares profound insights on how cultivating mental strength and building performance mindset techniques can transform flight safety, confidence, and decision-making — not only in high-stakes emergencies but throughout day-to-day aviation operations.

Broadcasting live from Verticon, Tammy and John explore how pilots can prepare not just their technical skills but their thoughts, emotions, and responses under stress. Tammy reveals how mindset training, when integrated into routine operations and flight debriefs, becomes a powerful tool for safety, resilience, and continuous improvement.

Tammy Barlette is a retired U.S. Air Force Lieutenant Colonel and former fighter pilot with over 20 years of aviation experience, including flying the A-10 Warthog and MQ-9 Reaper. She is the founder of Crosscheck Mental Performance Training, a company dedicated to enhancing mental resilience and performance among aviators and professionals in high-pressure roles.

Tammy specializes in helping individuals reframe failure, reduce anxiety, and overcome perfectionism through practical, daily mindset tools. Her programs combine proven mental performance techniques with the rigor of aviation discipline, making her a sought-after speaker and trainer in both aviation and personal development spaces.

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

“You can prepare how you want to think, feel, and respond when challenges happen — and that will make a significant difference in your performance.”

“You can’t just pull over on a cloud. You have to be ready, and mental training is a huge part of that.”

“If you don’t debrief all the time, and only do it when something goes wrong, it starts to feel like criticism instead of learning.”

“Is this failure going to define you or inform you? That’s the key.”

“There’s no perfect flight. The only difference between you and me is how many mistakes you make and how big they are.”

In this gripping episode of Hangar X Studios, former fighter pilot and host John Ramstead welcomes back decorated combat veteran Jason Harris to unpack the rapidly evolving world of ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance). Together, they dive into the game-changing role of drones, UAVs, and VTOLs in modern military and civilian missions. From tactical battlefield insights to post-disaster response, Jason shares compelling real-world use cases and planning considerations.

The conversation also explores what makes ISR platforms truly effective—from connectivity and payload to sound signatures and data dissemination. Jason ties it all together with his framework of “No-Fail Trust,” offering powerful leadership and team-building lessons for entrepreneurs, startups, and organizations looking to thrive in high-stakes environments.

Lt. Col. Jason Harris (Ret.) is a decorated U.S. Air Force veteran, combat pilot, airline captain, and trusted leadership consultant. Known for his thought leadership on “No-Fail Trust,” Jason specializes in equipping organizations with frameworks that drive high-performance teamwork, mission execution, and cultural excellence. With deep operational expertise in ISR missions and military planning, Jason brings both battlefield and boardroom experience to the future of aerospace, innovation, and leadership.

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

"Great, you have a fantastic Phillips screwdriver. But I need a flathead. Does your user need that tool?"
— Jason Harris

"ISR is really just about gathering information. It spans from satellites to someone with a sensor in their pocket."
— Jason Harris

"It does us no good to collect data if we can't disseminate it quickly to those who need it."
— Jason Harris

"Culture is not just about if we all get along—it's how we do things."
— Jason Harris

"Don’t just think outside the box. Blow up the box. Start from scratch."
— Jason Harris

"You can’t build a high-trust organization without being intentional about your training, your culture, and your mission."
— Jason Harris

In this episode of Hangar X Studios, host John Ramstead sits down with Aaron Hall, founder of Bifrost Manufacturing, to explore how this innovative company is redefining rapid prototyping through additive manufacturing. Broadcasting from The Hive in Grand Forks, North Dakota, the conversation dives into the startup's origins, their game-changing use of SAF and SLS 3D printing, and how their work is transforming timelines and costs across the drone, aerospace, agriculture, and defense industries.

Aaron shares how Bifrost evolved from solving urgent infrastructure problems for bitcoin mining to enabling advanced manufacturing solutions for major aerospace clients. With a focus on speed, customization, and iterative prototyping, Bifrost is paving the way for faster innovation, especially in the high-stakes world of drones and aircraft part replacement.

Aaron Hall is the founder of Bifrost Manufacturing, a company specializing in rapid prototyping and additive manufacturing for startups, defense contractors, and aerospace innovators. Based in Grand Forks, ND, Aaron started Bifrost to solve immediate hardware challenges in the cryptocurrency space but quickly pivoted into high-precision, fast-turnaround solutions for more complex industries.

With clients like Cirrus Aircraft and LM Glass Fiber, and a team that includes veterans from Northrop Grumman, Bifrost is pioneering a faster, more flexible approach to producing certified, field-ready components for everything from drones to hypersonic systems.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaron-hall-671841280/

Bifrost Manufacturing is a cutting-edge additive manufacturing company based in Grand Forks, North Dakota, specializing in rapid prototyping and custom part production for aerospace, defense, and industrial applications. Founded to address urgent infrastructure challenges in emerging tech sectors, Bifrost leverages advanced technologies like SAF and SLS 3D printing to deliver fast, durable, and cost-effective solutions. By dramatically reducing engineering and turnaround time, the company supports startups and established enterprises alike in accelerating innovation, from drone components to certified aircraft parts.

“Being an entrepreneur, you want to do something maybe an old way, but also break into a new marketplace.” – Aaron Hall

“Everybody else is moving in chunks of three to six months. We’re trying to move in days.” – Aaron Hall

“You could scan it, fix it in CAD, print it, and you’re back to prototyping — instead of waiting months.” – John Ramstead

“The FAA is thinking differently now — instead of certifying individual parts, they’re looking at certifying processes.” – Aaron Hall

“This whole industry evolves very rapidly. You have to adapt or get left behind.” – Aaron Hall

In this episode of Hangar X Studios, host John Ramstead sits down with Rob Bentley Johnston of Heliflite Australia, live from Verticon — the epicenter of vertical aviation innovation. The conversation journeys through the unique operational landscape of helicopters across the vast Australian terrain, the evolution of VTOL and EVTOL technology, and how Heliflite is helping shape the future of long-range vertical transport.

Rob shares insights into the shifting dynamics of regional connectivity in Australia, why traditional helicopters are being challenged by newer airframes, and what makes the Australian aviation market uniquely suited for long-range VTOL innovations. Packed with outback survival anecdotes and forward-looking market analysis, this episode is a compelling deep dive into the edge of aerospace innovation.

Rob Bentley Johnston is the Director at Heliflite Australia, a company with a nearly 50-year legacy as one of the world’s first Robinson helicopter distributors. Rob brings over 15 years of hands-on experience in vertical aviation, with thousands of flight hours logged across Australia. A staunch advocate for helicopter-based infrastructure and now long-range VTOL solutions, Rob is at the forefront of bringing next-gen aircraft technology to the Australian market, particularly in regional applications.

Heliflite is one of the longest-serving and most respected helicopter distributors in the Southern Hemisphere, proudly representing Robinson Helicopter Company for nearly five decades. Headquartered in Australia, Heliflite specializes in the sale, service, and support of rotary-wing aircraft across both urban and remote regions. With a strong focus on safety, innovation, and customer service, Heliflite also partners with emerging aviation technologies—including drones and long-range VTOL aircraft—to lead the next generation of vertical flight solutions.

"We're a little bit tougher down there, so they didn't give us a 9 mil. They just gave us a long knife." – Rob Bentley Johnston

"Our wealth is more dispersed over a 500 nautical mile range, not a 90 mile radius like the U.S." – Rob Bentley Johnston

"The aviation market is at a hockey stick point — we're watching it lift off right now." – Rob Bentley Johnston

"What excites me is seeing new helicopters bring in people who were never even in aviation before." – Rob Bentley Johnston

"XTI is using existing technologies, making certification faster and user benefits more immediate." – Rob Bentley Johnston

In this episode of Hangar X Studios, host John Ramstead sits down with Norman Jordan, CEO of Signia, live from Verticon. Norman shares Signia’s journey from its inception just three and a half years ago to becoming a nearly $900 million powerhouse in aerospace. With a strategy focused on acquisitions, legacy innovation, and long-term service to the aerospace sector, Signia is building what Norman calls a “forever company.”

The conversation covers Signia’s vertical integration strategy, its investment in mission-critical systems, and its human-centric approach to acquisitions and customer support. Norman also shares his leadership insights on building a lasting company culture, strategic integration, and what success looks like in the year ahead.

Norman Jordan is the CEO of Signia Aerospace, an emerging leader in aerospace systems and components. With over three decades of industry experience, Norman took the helm in December 2021 and has since guided the company through a strategic series of acquisitions and integrations. Under his leadership, Signia has grown into a nearly billion-dollar business with over 1,600 employees, offering mission-critical aerospace solutions ranging from propeller systems to rescue mission equipment. His leadership style emphasizes long-term vision, operational excellence, and customer-focused innovation.

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

Signia Aerospace is a leading provider of advanced aerospace systems and components, serving both commercial and military aviation markets. Formed through a series of strategic acquisitions, Signia delivers mission-critical solutions including propeller systems, engine technologies, environmental control systems, and rescue mission equipment. With a strong focus on innovation, aftermarket support, and long-term customer partnerships, Signia is committed to building a “forever company” that drives the future of aerospace. Headquartered in the United States, the company continues to expand its capabilities and global reach through a vertically integrated business model.

“We’re really building a forever company. We want to be in the market for many, many decades into the future.”
— Norman Jordan

“A lot of times it's our customers pointing us in the direction of where to innovate next.”
— Norman Jordan

“If you have a cooperative seller, that can be immensely helpful to help with integration.”
— Norman Jordan

“We want to be close to our customers with strong MRO support, inventory, and engineering that keeps aircraft flying.”
— Norman Jordan

“If we're 100% on time next year, with guaranteed turnaround times and continued acquisitions, I’d call that a win.”
— Norman Jordan

In this episode of Hangar X Studios, host John Ramstead sits down with Bill Daggett, founder of Delta Advisory Group and a seasoned veteran of the UAS (Unmanned Aerial Systems) industry. Live from The Hive in Grand Forks, North Dakota, the conversation explores how the UAS industry is evolving, where real commercial opportunities lie, and why “Drone as First Responder” (DFR) programs are revolutionizing emergency services in the U.S.

Bill shares practical insights into navigating the hype and regulatory complexities surrounding commercial drones, drawing from his military background and two decades of industry experience. Whether you're an investor, innovator, or just UAS-curious, this episode will give you a sharp, grounded perspective on what’s actually happening in this fast-moving sector.

Bill Daggett is the founder of Delta Advisory Group (DAG), a consultancy dedicated to helping stakeholders in the UAS industry—investors, startups, and international entrants—navigate the complex U.S. drone ecosystem. With a background as an Air Force pilot and experience in the MQ-1 and MQ-9 programs, Bill brings military-grade insight to commercial and governmental drone applications. Over two decades in the industry, he’s developed a reputation for cutting through hype to deliver grounded, actionable guidance.

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

Delta Advisory Group (DAG) is a strategic consultancy specializing in the unmanned aerial systems (UAS) industry. Founded by seasoned military and aerospace professionals, DAG helps investors, startups, and international companies navigate the complex U.S. drone ecosystem. With deep industry insight and a practical approach, the firm provides tailored guidance on market viability, regulatory pathways, and commercialization strategies. Whether entering the defense sector or pursuing commercial applications, DAG equips clients with the clarity and connections needed to succeed in the evolving UAS landscape.

In this episode of Hangar X Studios, host John Ramstead sits down with aviation strategist and airport transformation expert Gloria Bouillon, CEO of Aviatrix Advisors. From her beginnings as an “airport rat” to leading major airport turnarounds and advising on advanced air mobility (AAM), Gloria shares a powerful perspective on infrastructure, regulation, and the future of flight. She delves into the challenges and opportunities small airports face, the practicalities of community engagement, the evolving landscape of regional and urban air mobility, and the significance of initiatives like the upcoming Pulitzer Electric Air Race. This conversation is a masterclass in how the aviation industry can innovate responsibly, sustainably, and inclusively.

[00:00:00] Community engagement surprises from early airport projects
[00:01:35] Gloria’s diverse aviation background and founding of Aviatrix Advisors
[00:03:20] Lying about her age to afford flight lessons and her early career path
[00:04:44] Working at Aspen Airport and involvement in a $200M project
[00:08:35] Economic planning and sustainability for struggling airports
[00:11:07] Taking leadership at two airports in crisis
[00:15:40] Key decisions that led to a 40% increase in airport operations
[00:19:14] Mistakes OEMs make with community engagement and strategy
[00:20:50] Favorable regions for OEMs to consider, like the Midwest
[00:22:36] The vision and logistics behind the Pulitzer Electric Air Race
[00:27:23] Urban air mobility challenges and public perception
[00:29:45] Regional vs. urban air mobility explained
[00:32:53] Observations on OEM success and failure patterns
[00:35:00] The role of SAF, hybrids, and adaptive strategies in sustainability
[00:40:12] Innovations needed to accelerate the AAM industry
[00:43:24] Stakeholder engagement as a major challenge for adoption
[00:47:01] Why the Pulitzer Air Race is key for public education
[00:48:36] Final advice: focus, community building, and securing paying customers

Gloria Bouillon is the founder and CEO of Aviatrice Advisors, a firm specializing in regulatory strategy, airport growth planning, and AAM readiness. With experience as an airport director, aviation insurance executive, pilot, and consultant, Gloria has helped turn around struggling airports, develop renewable energy projects, and advocate for sustainable air mobility. She currently serves as Community Integration Director at the Advanced Air Mobility Institute and advises on aviation sustainability, smart cities, and infrastructure development.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/gloria-bouillon-a-a-e-ace-8720928b/

Aviatrix Advisors is a strategic aviation consultancy founded by Gloria Bouillon, specializing in regulatory navigation, infrastructure development, and growth planning for the evolving aerospace ecosystem. The firm works closely with airports, OEMs, municipalities, and advanced air mobility (AAM) stakeholders to build sustainable, community-integrated aviation solutions. Leveraging Gloria’s extensive experience in airport management, public-private partnerships, and policy advising, Aviatrix Advisors helps clients unlock new opportunities, drive operational resilience, and align innovation with practical implementation in the aviation sector.

“You have to present it, discuss it, answer questions… sometimes it can take years.”
– On stakeholder engagement and airport planning

“Don’t spread yourself too thin. Try to gain the confidence of one or two paying customers. That can be everything.”
– On strategic focus for startups

“Just because you’re ready doesn’t mean the city or regulatory body is.”
– On the pace of tech vs. government processes

“It's not about being the first. It's about staying in the game the longest.”
– On startup longevity in aerospace

“Even people who are against airport operations come out to the airshows. That’s powerful.”
– On community events and public perception