Settling into Space
- Andy Campbell
- May 13
- 5 min read
From engineering leadership to space connectivity
By Gary Kerr
Recently, I took my own professional ‘giant leap’ and successfully exited the company I founded and built over the last 23 years – EPM Solutions, an engineering and asset management specialist.
It was a big moment for me, stepping away from something I had dedicated so much of my life and energy to. The transition was all the more meaningful as I exited through an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT), handing over the reins – and ownership – to the team that helped make EPM what it is today.
I’m extremely proud of what we accomplished. From a standing start in 2002, we grew to attract and secure a multi-sector blue-chip client base of globally recognised brands – some of the biggest and most complex companies out there, both locally and internationally.
At EPM, we specialised in helping asset-intensive organisations save money, manage change, maintain integrity, reduce corporate risk, and remain compliant.
We built a specialism in environments where explosive gases, vapours and hazardous conditions were part and parcel of daily operations – not too dissimilar from the upstream space sector. Attention to detail, robust risk management, and technical expertise were essential, and I was privileged to lead a team that delivered on those standards every day.
Last year, I was honoured to become a Fellow of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE), and along the way, built a reputation for great service, technical innovation, and professionalism. The work EPM did was ultimately about keeping people safe and businesses running smoothly, no matter how challenging the environment. Our customers trusted us – and that’s something I’ll always be proud of.
However, for me after more than two decades of growth and leadership at the helm of EPM, it was time for change. It was time for me to hand the baton over and seek a new challenge.
The opportunity to join Space Network and move into the space sector – a dynamic and fast-moving environment – has been a fascinating transition. I’ll admit, the learning curve was steep at first, but I feel settled now and excited about what lies ahead. Whether it’s managing explosive environments in a refinery or assisting companies who work with rocket fuel or sensitive equipment in space, the fundamentals remain the same: great service, technical innovation, and professionalism.
The mindset I developed at EPM fits perfectly within the space sector. Space Network is all about the importance of connectivity – people doing business with people – and that’s universal. While space might seem a world apart from “traditional engineering,” the parallels are clear, and it’s been rewarding to see how much of my previous experience translates to this new environment.
I've also been surprised to learn how much space technology quietly shapes our everyday lives. I remember watching Live Aid back in 1985 – an unforgettable moment, not just for the music and its charitable purpose, but for how a handful of satellites made it possible for nearly two billion people across 150 countries to share the experience live. At the time, it was one of the largest satellite broadcasts ever.
Fast forward to today, May 2025, and there are over 10,000 active satellites orbiting Earth – a dramatic rise from just 165 in 1985. Most are in low Earth orbit and serve communications, Earth observation, or navigation purposes. This rapid growth is expected to continue in the years ahead.
The growth of the space sector reflects a remarkable shift. Satellite technology has evolved from a pioneering achievement to an everyday essential, underpinning much of modern life. From global broadcasts and real-time navigation to internet access and emergency services, space is no longer 'out there' – it’s woven into our routines in ways we rarely notice.
What continues to surprise me most, though, are the everyday things we take for granted. Space plays a silent but vital role in everything from checking the weather or avoiding traffic, to tapping our phones at the checkout using precise satellite timing which supports contactless payments. GPS networks make mobile navigation seamless. Live sport and breaking news reach our screens via satellite broadcast in an instant. Emergency services rely on space-based systems to coordinate efforts and save lives.
These advances benefit everyone – not just scientists or governments. As space becomes ever more integrated into society, the invisible threads connecting us to space grow stronger by the day.
While connecting and learning about space technology is fascinating, connecting with the people in the sector has even more rewarding. One thing that’s stood out since joining Space Network is just how open and welcoming the Space community is. People are genuinely happy to see new faces entering the sector and share their ideas and experiences. Perhaps it’s the spirit of a sector that’s growing fast – there’s a real sense of excitement and possibility. It’s full of good people, largely driven by engineering minds and technical leaders. I can relate to that! Thank you to all for making me feel at home!
Looking ahead, I see huge opportunities to make the space industry even more connected. Imagine a community where students, professionals, and companies – large and small – can easily share ideas, collaborate on projects, and support one another’s growth. Imagine that and you glimpse into the future of Space Network.
A truly connected ecosystem would accelerate innovation, open up new partnerships, and make it easier for everyone to access opportunities – whether you're just starting out or breaking into new markets. The benefits would ripple outward, strengthening the entire sector and ensuring the UK and my home country of Scotland who are poised for launch – can continue to lead on the global stage.
Some of the most exciting innovations are emerging where space intersects with other sectors. From farming and logistics to healthcare and insurance, space companies are applying their expertise in new ways. Meanwhile, industries like materials science, AI, and food technology are bringing fresh thinking to space. This cross-pollination is driving powerful breakthroughs that neither side could achieve alone.
Every day, I’m learning something new and gaining a deeper appreciation of how space touches our lives. If you’re curious about the sector, now is a brilliant time to get involved. The opportunities are broader – and closer to home – than you might think.
If you’d like to connect, share ideas, or join our growing network, I’d love to hear from you.
Written by:
Gary Kerr
Chief Technology Officer
Space Network
