Stephen Tibbitts

Tibbitts is arguably the earliest prognosticator of eVTOL technology as proven in this NASA SBIR proposal from 2005. He has inspired work at NASA, Joby and many other companies working in this arena. He predicted the events playing out today by writing this regarding eVTOL: “This unique flying machine has the potential to revolutionize general aviation in a number of ways including zero emissions, very quiet operation, vertical takeoff and landing, efficient cruise, affordability, and safety through redundant motors and dual landing modes to name a few.” His proposal is full of insightful, valid and forward-looking ideas surrounding the electric flight. “Vertical takeoff and landing is the most obvious benefit and allows efficient point-to-point travel. NASA’s “highway in the sky” air traffic control system along with aircraft such as EVA will make air-taxi service a practical reality.” There is no doubt that Tibbitts and his 2005 Proposal have had a remarkable influence in eVTOL development worldwide. Tibbitts is an active participant in NASA’s Transformative Vertical Flight Working Groups 3 & 4: Defining the roadmap to the future.

Mr. Tibbitts is an entrepreneur, engineer, inventor, and founder of ZEVA (zevaaero.com). He was the founder of Silicon Reality where he raised over $4 million in non-dilutive R&D contracts. Silicon Reality was sold to Evans & Sutherland. He also founded PICCO, a semiconductor design consultancy (sold to Broadcom) and FabLab LLC where he is managing director. He is an active angel investor with the Keiretsu Forum. He has held director level and management positions and has done consulting work for the world’s top semiconductor companies, has five US patents and three patents pending. Mr. Tibbitts is a private pilot, an electric vehicle enthusiast, and holds a BSEE from Washington State University.