Mike Curtis-Rouse

Head of Manufacturing

Mike is the Head of Manufacturing for Space within the Satellite Applications Catapult, part of the Access to Space value stream, he leads on commercial development and evolution of upstream space, focusing specifically on launch vehicles, spacecraft and in-orbit services. He an evangelist for the utilisation of new and disruptive technologies and is the technical architect for the Catapult’s Disruptive Innovation for Space Centre; a holistic strategic capability designed to increase the UK’s manufacturing base for upstream space. Mike has a special interest in net shape manufacturing, with a focus on refractory metals for use in extreme environments e.g. launch propulsion systems.

Prior to joining the Catapult, Mike held a variety of positions manufacturing positions at the Science and Technologies Facilities Council and was the Program Manager for the Harwell Robotics and Autonomy Facility, he was the EMEA Director for 3DSIM LLC an additive manufacturing simulation company (acquired by Ansys in Nov 2017) , and additionally is the Chief Experience Officer for Space Store, a new experiential store dedicated to bringing space to everyone. Mike read Mechatronic Engineering at the University of Manchester Institute of Science and Technology and is a commissioned army reserve officer, currently commanding Senior Division, Oxford University Officers Training Corp.