On March 21, 2025, Brad King, a three-time University of Michigan Aerospace alum and professor at Michigan Tech, took the stage at the Center for Entrepreneurship’s EHour* to share his journey—from researcher to entrepreneur—shaping the future of space technology in Michigan. But this story isn’t just about one company. It’s about a culture of innovation, the resources that support it, and the people who choose to build the future right here in the Great Lakes State.
A Homegrown Vision for Space-Tech Leadership
Brad King has built one of Michigan’s most exciting space-tech startups—Orbion Space Technology—right in his hometown of Houghton, MI. Since its founding in 2016, Orbion has grown into a venture-backed powerhouse with 80 employees, proving that high-tech businesses can thrive beyond the traditional innovation hubs of Silicon Valley and the East Coast. King’s decision to stay in Michigan underscores the state’s growing deep-tech ecosystem and its commitment to strengthening economic connections through University of Michigan success stories.
Fueling Innovation Through the Center for Entrepreneurship
At the heart of this innovation pipeline is the University of Michigan’s Center for Entrepreneurship, which continues to equip students with the skills, experiences, and networks to build the future. A prime example is Brandon Kiernan, a current EHour student and Mechanical Engineering undergraduate. In 2024, Kiernan participated in the PJTL Electrification program, which led to a summer internship at Orbion. His journey highlights the real-world impact of CFE’s programs in preparing students for high-growth careers within Michigan’s evolving technology landscape.
EHour’s Impact: Strengthening Michigan’s Talent Pipeline
Following King’s EHour event, Orbion saw a surge of U-M students eager to intern with the company—further proof of the university’s role in fostering talent that stays and thrives in Michigan. While competitors flock to California and Florida, Orbion’s success in the Keweenaw Peninsula proves that Michigan possesses the technical expertise, manufacturing capacity, and relentless spirit to lead in aerospace innovation.
Michigan’s Economic Advantage: Where Innovation Meets Industry
King’s journey from academia to entrepreneurship showcases a unique ability to transform groundbreaking ideas into successful ventures. Orbion’s advanced propulsion systems—featuring circuit boards manufactured in Calumet, MI, and proprietary fuel valves designed in-house—are a testament to the state’s robust engineering and manufacturing capabilities. With strong support from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) and initiatives like the Michigander Scholars program (of which Orbion is one of a select few participants), the state is doubling down on talent development and tech-driven economic growth.
Looking Ahead: A Thriving Future for Michigan’s Entrepreneurs
The University of Michigan’s entrepreneurial ecosystem continues to inspire the next generation of innovators, reinforcing the idea that world-class deep-tech companies can be built and scaled right here in Michigan. As U-M students like Kiernan step into the future with hands-on experience at companies like Orbion, and as visionaries like King prove that Michigan is a global contender in aerospace, the state’s innovation economy continues to rise.
Brad King’s story isn’t just his own—it’s Michigan’s story. A story of innovation, resilience, and a commitment to building the future where it matters most.
Read More about Orbion & Brad King’s story on the Michigan Economic Development Corporation website
Visit Orbion’s website for more information about the company.
*EHour is the CFE’s weekly speaker series held during the fall & winter semesters at 11:30am, Stamps Auditorium on North Campus. Students, staff, faculty, parents, and community are all welcome.