Meet our Industry Person of the Week, Shelli Brunswick, the SB Global LLC, CEO & Founder.
Q: How did you get started working in your field?
Shelli: My journey into the space industry began with a pivotal moment during my career in the U.S. Air Force. Initially, I resisted my assignment to space acquisition, as it wasn’t a path I had envisioned for myself. But as I immersed myself in the work, I discovered the profound impact of space technologies—not just on national defense, but on solving some of the world’s biggest challenges, from climate monitoring to global communications. That experience sparked a lifelong passion for connecting the highly specialized world of space with practical applications that benefit humanity. Over the years, my career has taken me from leading innovative programs in the Air Force to shaping global initiatives as Chief Operating Officer of the Space Foundation. Today, as the CEO of SB Global LLC, I’m focused on empowering leaders and organizations to harness space innovation for transformative growth. What began as an unplanned assignment became a calling. It’s proof that even unexpected opportunities can lead to extraordinary outcomes when you embrace them with curiosity and purpose.
Q: What do you love the most about your job? What are you most proud of?
Shelli: What I love most about my job is the opportunity to empower and inspire others to see beyond their current horizons. Through my work, I connect the transformative power of space innovation to real-world challenges, helping people and organizations unlock their potential. I particularly enjoy collaborating with diverse groups—from entrepreneurs to policymakers—to drive meaningful change and create pathways for success. Whether it’s mentoring future leaders, facilitating global partnerships, or fostering innovation, every day brings the chance to make a tangible impact. What are you most proud of? I am most proud of my work with the World Business Angles Investment Forum (WBAF) Global Women Leaders Committee, where I help create opportunities for women entrepreneurs worldwide. Whether it’s moderating discussions on cross-border incubator partnerships or fostering global networks for female founders, this work highlights the importance of collaboration, innovation, and inclusivity in driving economic growth. Additionally, leading SB Global LLC and mentoring the next generation of leaders has allowed me to leave a lasting legacy—one rooted in creating opportunities, fostering diversity, and shaping a future where innovation benefits everyone.
Q: What advice would you give to someone considering this line of work or new to the field?
Shelli: Step into this field with curiosity, resilience, and an open mind. The space industry and related fields are evolving rapidly, and the opportunities are as boundless as the universe itself. I advise embracing the unknown—some of the most rewarding opportunities arise from unexpected assignments or paths. For instance, my own journey began in the U.S. Air Force, where an unanticipated role in space acquisition set the course for my career. Build your network early and cultivate it continuously. Collaboration is at the heart of the space ecosystem, and meaningful connections with mentors, peers, and industry leaders can open doors and provide invaluable insights. Organizations like the Space Generation Advisory Council (SGAC) and WomenTech Network offer excellent platforms to connect with like-minded professionals and gain exposure to global opportunities. Lastly, never stop learning. Whether understanding emerging technologies, exploring global trends, or developing leadership skills, staying curious and adaptable will set you apart. The space industry isn’t just about technical expertise; it’s about innovation, creativity, and a commitment to solving the challenges of today while building a brighter tomorrow.
Q: Can you talk about a project you recently worked on?
Shelli: One of the most meaningful projects I’ve recently completed is my new book, What’s Space Got to Do With It? 10 Life Lessons for Personal Growth. This book is the first in a transformative series that bridges principles from the global space ecosystem with actionable personal and professional success strategies. Throughout my career, I’ve met thousands of thought leaders across industries such as policy, education, entrepreneurship, and finance. For this book series, I conducted in-depth interviews with over 200 of these extraordinary individuals. I selected 30 visionary leaders from this group to contribute their unique insights to the first book. These pioneers demonstrate how principles like resilience, innovation, collaboration, and adaptability—rooted in the global space ecosystem—can be universally applied. The global space ecosystem serves as both an inspiration and a model for leadership and growth. It’s not just about technology or exploration; it’s about fostering global connections, addressing complex challenges, and envisioning a better future. Each chapter distills these principles into practical guidance, blending my personal reflections, the experiences of these thought leaders, and actionable strategies that readers can apply to their own lives. Writing this book was deeply personal and transformative. It allowed me to reflect on my 35+ years in the aerospace industry while amplifying the voices of those shaping the future. What’s Space Got to Do With It? is more than a book—it’s a roadmap for transformation, inspiring readers to dream boldly, act purposefully, and embrace the limitless possibilities ahead.
Q: Anything else you would like to add?
Shelli: I want to highlight the transformative potential of the global space ecosystem—not just as a realm of exploration, but as a catalyst for innovation, collaboration, and progress. Space connects industries, fosters global partnerships, and inspires solutions to some of the world’s most pressing challenges. It’s not just about rockets or satellites—it’s about empowering people in every field to think bigger, act bolder, and create meaningful change. Through my work, I’ve had the privilege of amplifying these messages in platforms and publications worldwide. My Forbes Technology Council articles explore how space innovation drives economic resilience, sustainability, and leadership transformation. From the importance of public-private partnerships to how space technologies address global challenges, I aim to demonstrate how space strategies shape industries, solve problems, and improve life on Earth. I’ve also shared these insights directly with audiences at prestigious events such as the European Rover Challenge, Davos 2024, ASCEND, Leap24, Space Congress and other global forums. These stages have allowed me to connect with individuals and organizations, helping them discover how space innovation and leadership principles can inspire breakthroughs in their own fields. What’s Space Got to Do With It? reflects this mission, blending lessons from my 35+ years in aerospace with insights from over 200 thought leaders across industries. It’s the first book in a series that distills the space ecosystem’s bold vision, collaborative mindset, and innovative strategies into actionable guidance for readers worldwide. I hope these books inspire people from all walks of life to embrace their potential and drive transformative change. Together, we can harness the limitless power of the space ecosystem and shape a brighter, more sustainable future. Let’s reach for the stars—metaphorically and literally—and make a difference in the world.
Connect with Shelli Brunswick: Website https://shelli-brunswick.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@shellibrunswick7268 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sb-global-llc/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/shellibrunswick/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shellibrunswick/ X: https://twitter.com/shellibrunswick EBook: https://www.amazon.com/Whats-Space-Got-Do-Personal-ebook/dp/B0DM9YY6X8 Article: https://www.forbes.com/councils/forbestechcouncil/people/shellibrunswick/
THANK YOU, SHELLI! WE LOOK FORWARD TO KEEPING UP WITH YOU THROUGH THE #PUMPTALK COMMUNITY!