BISMARCK, N.D. – With the University of North Dakota’s (UND) Space Operations Summit less than a week away from liftoff, U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND) announced Brad Clevenger will join him at the event on Nov. 4 in Grand Forks. Clevenger, the President of Rocket Lab USA, and Cramer will discover the latest in space technology, applications, and services at the event, which also features discussions, technical sessions, and networking opportunities on a wide variety of trailblazing ideas.

Clevenger, who leads Rocket Lab’s Space Systems segment, provides strategic leadership across the company’s satellite and satellite component business units. His extensive experience and leadership in the space industry make him an ideal guest to join Cramer for a discussion on the rapidly evolving space sector, its emerging technologies, the industry’s growth trajectory, and advancements in space and launch capabilities.

Rocket Lab recently announced plans to acquire Iridium Communications, a leading global provider of voice, data, and Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (PNT) satellite services. North Dakota is home to Space Development Agency’s (SDA) 25,000 square-foot Satellite Test and Checkout Center at Grand Forks Air Force Base, where Iridium employs dozens of highly skilled workers who help conduct operations for SDA’s low-earth-orbit missions.

“Companies like Rocket Lab are playing an important role in strengthening our national security in space,” said Cramer. “And with more than two decades of experience in satellite missions and space technology, Brad Clevenger has a great perspective on where this industry is headed and the incredible advancements happening across the sector. I’m really honored he’s accepted my invitation to join me in Grand Forks for this year’s Space Operations Summit, and I’m looking forward to our conversation.”

“I’m grateful to Senator Cramer for inviting me to be his guest at the University of North Dakota’s Space Operations Summit,” said Brad Clevenger, President of Rocket Lab USA. “Now more than ever, it’s critical for industry innovators like Rocket Lab to be part of these key conversations between academia, U.S. government, and industry on how best we can collaborate to ensure American space superiority. Senator Cramer’s leadership on these issues in the United States Senate is invaluable and I look forward to discussing Rocket Lab’s perspective more during our fireside chat.”

Before joining Rocket Lab, Clevenger held several executive leadership roles at SolAero Technologies and EMCORE Corporation. Clevenger has contributed to more than 250 satellite missions and the deployment of over 1,100 satellites over his two decades in the industry. Under his leadership, the business grew into a global leader in satellite solar power technology.

Click here to find out more about the 2026 Space Operations Summit.