Photo Courtesy of NASA
[Rockville, MD, April 1, 2024] – IBX, an innovation and investment firm revolutionizing the space and energy sectors, is proud to announce that Robert D. Cabana, a former NASA Associate Administrator, and distinguished astronaut, will join the company as Senior Advisor effective April 1. In his new capacity, Cabana will leverage his wealth of experience in leadership, aerospace, and innovation to advise the IBX portfolio companies’ and provide strategic insights to Dr. Kam Ghaffarian founder and chairman of X-Energy, Intuitive Machines, Axiom Space, Quantum Space, and various other companies.
"We are thrilled to welcome Bob Cabana to the IBX family," said Ghaffarian, Founder and CEO of IBX. "His unparalleled experience in innovation, team leadership, and technical expertise will continue to drive the advancement of the commercial space industry and propel technological boundaries for the benefit of humanity. Bob's leadership at NASA was pivotal in managing diverse operations and forging key public-private partnerships, ushering in a new era of opportunity. We are thankful to have his invaluable insights and leadership on our team."
Prior to joining IBX, Cabana held the esteemed position of NASA's Associate Administrator, the agency's third-highest executive role and its highest-ranking civil servant. In this capacity, he served as a trusted advisor to NASA Administrator Bill Nelson and Deputy Administrator Pam Melroy, providing strategic guidance and leadership to the agency's 10 center directors and mission directorate associate administrators. Cabana's tenure saw him overseeing a workforce of over 18,000 employees.
Before his appointment as NASA Associate Administrator, Cabana distinguished himself as the Director of NASA's John F. Kennedy Space Center in Florida, where he oversaw all activities and facilities at the iconic spaceport. A decorated veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps, Cabana's journey into space began in 1985 when he was selected as an astronaut candidate. Over the course of his illustrious career, he embarked on four spaceflights, accumulating 38 days in space and serving as both a pilot and mission commander. Cabana's achievements have earned him numerous accolades, including induction into the Astronaut Hall of Fame and recognition as an Associate Fellow in the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics.
"I'm truly excited to join Kam's innovative team at IBX, supporting the continued advancement of our nation's space program and pushing the boundaries of technology for a brighter future on Earth and beyond,” said Cabana.
ABOUT IBX:
IBX is an innovation and investment firm spearheading advancements in space, technology, and energy to elevate humanity and expand human knowledge. Founded by visionary entrepreneur and engineer Kam Ghaffarian, IBX pioneers investment strategies that reshape business landscapes, incubate innovative concepts, and foster future economies. IBX supports the transformative companies founded by Ghaffarian, such as X-energy, Intuitive Machines, Axiom Space, and Quantum Space, as well as various pioneering ventures and charitable causes.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Bettina Inclan, bettina@ibx-llc.com
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