Zaheer Ali is a physicist, technologist, and educator working at the intersection of AI, quantum, and space systems. He is Space Paladin, Director of the Space MBA program at the University of Central Florida. In addition, he is a partner at Space Outcomes LLC, NewSpace Finance, and co-founder of Positon Inc., he has held leadership roles at NASA, the U.S. Department of Energy, Hewlett Packard, and multiple startups. He has authored over 40 publications, holds several patents, and earned an R&D 100 Award for innovation. A founding executive of Material Mind and AIXIA Global, he advances digital transformation and systems resilience. A first-generation American of Indian Muslim heritage and a practicing Stoic, he integrates Eastern, Western, and Indigenous wisdom in shaping ethical, inclusive futures for space exploration and emerging technologies.
Zaheer Ali
Space Paladin, Director of the Space MBA Program, University of Central Florida