FreeFall Aerospace is seeking an FP&A Manager to join our growing team in Tucson, Arizona.

As a growth stage aerospace company, FreeFall Aerospace is developing advanced antenna technology for space defense and resilient communications. Our team works at the intersection of innovation, engineering, and mission-driven problem solving, supporting both government and commercial opportunities. We operate from an 8,000-square-foot office and lab facility in Tucson and maintain a close working relationship with the University of Arizona, which serves as an important pipeline for emerging technologies and top-tier talent.

This is an exciting opportunity for a finance professional who wants to play a meaningful role in a high-growth environment and help shape the financial strategy of a company working on advanced technologies with real-world impact.

About the FP&A Manager Role

The Financial Planning and Analysis Manager will lead financial forecasting, budgeting, and strategic planning efforts across the organization. This role will support the company’s current and expected government and commercial contracts by building financial visibility, improving decision-making, and helping leadership plan for growth.

The ideal candidate is someone who can move comfortably between high-level strategic thinking and hands-on execution. In addition to owning forecasting and financial modeling, this person should be willing to support day-to-day accounting and broader business operations as needed.

This role may be structured as full-time or part-time, depending on qualifications, with an expectation of at least partial on-site support in Tucson, Arizona.

What You’ll Do

In this role, you will help FreeFall Aerospace make informed, strategic financial decisions by providing clear analysis and forward-looking planning. Responsibilities may include:

• Leading company budgeting, forecasting, and long-range financial planning
• Building and maintaining financial models to support strategic decision-making
• Supporting planning tied to government and commercial contracts
• Analyzing financial performance, trends, and key metrics
• Preparing reports, insights, and presentations for leadership
• Supporting cash flow planning and resource allocation decisions
• Assisting with cap table management and investment related analysis
• Partnering with leadership on growth planning and operational strategy
• Providing support for day to day accounting and business functions as needed
• Helping strengthen financial processes and improve reporting visibility across the business

What We’re Looking For

We are looking for a candidate who combines strong technical finance skills with sound judgment, flexibility, and the ability to thrive in an entrepreneurial environment.

Required Qualifications

• Expertise in financial planning, budgeting, and forecasting
• Strong financial modeling and analytical skills
• Solid foundation in finance, accounting, and business metrics
• Ability to interpret financial statements and translate data into actionable insights
• Experience supporting strategic planning and business decision making
• Excellent communication and presentation skills
• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, or a related field
• Ability to work on-site in Tucson, Arizona, at least part-time

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience managing cap tables and investments
• Experience in aerospace, technology, or government contracting
• Master’s degree, CPA, and/or CFA designation
• Comfort working in a fast moving growth stage company where priorities may evolve

Why Join FreeFall Aerospace

FreeFall Aerospace offers the opportunity to contribute to a company building advanced solutions for critical communications challenges. This is a strong fit for someone who wants more than a traditional finance role and is excited by the opportunity to work closely with leadership, support innovation, and help shape the future of a growing aerospace business.

You will join a collaborative team of approximately 15 engineers and professionals working in a highly specialized field, with strong ties to the University of Arizona and a clear focus on practical innovation.

Location and Work Structure

This position is based in Tucson, Arizona. The role can be structured as full-time or part-time, depending on qualifications, but candidates should expect to provide at least partial on-site support.

How to Apply

If you are interested in supporting the next phase of growth at FreeFall Aerospace, we would love to hear from you.

Apply through the job posting.

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In a recent announcement to Alliance members, Angel Smith, Executive Director of the SmallSat Alliance, welcomed FreeFall with the following message:

“We’re excited to announce that FreeFall Aerospace has joined the SmallSat Alliance! Their innovative approach to satellite communications and antenna design is a powerful addition to our growing community of industry leaders and visionaries.

Born from high-frequency radio astronomy research at the University of Arizona, FreeFall Aerospace brings a truly unique perspective to new-space innovation. Their lightweight, low-power, high-performance antenna systems—both in space and on the ground—are redefining what’s possible for smallsat connectivity.

As a proud new member of the Alliance, FreeFall is eager to support our shared mission to advance connectivity for commercial, government, and defense applications—from Earth to the Moon and beyond.”

FreeFall’s groundbreaking antenna technology—rooted in decades of academic research and refined through commercial and defense deployments—offers a game-changing solution for modern space missions. With steerable, scalable, and energy-efficient systems, FreeFall is helping bridge the gap between small satellite form factors and high-performance communications.

“We’re honored to be part of such a forward-thinking and mission-driven community,” said Doug Stetson, FreeFall’s Founder and Chief Strategy Officer. “The Alliance’s work aligns perfectly with our vision to ……”

As FreeFall becomes more actively involved in Alliance activities, the team looks forward to upcoming events, collaborations, and shared initiatives that further the goal of advancing space-based connectivity.

For more information or partnership inquiries, please contact info@freefallaerospace.com.

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Reaching New Heights: FreeFall’s Antennas Integral to SmallSat Communications on CatSat Mission

FreeFall Aerospace has achieved a milestone with its innovative antenna systems, which are now operational on CatSat, a significant NASA CubeSat Launch Initiative project. Launched July 4th in partnership with the University of Arizona, the mission, led by Principal Investigator Dr. Walker and FreeFall Senior Engineer Dr. Aman Chandra, is a technological and educational demonstration. It comprises multiple FreeFall-designed antennas, each addressing unique mission needs.

We spoke with Terrance Pat, an RF Design Engineer, to learn more about FreeFall’s three unique antennas designed for CatSat.

Can you briefly describe each unique antenna that FreeFall designed for CatSat?

“The first, an inflatable X-band spherical antenna, enables rapid data downlink while demonstrating advanced inflatable antenna technology. The highlighted technology of the CatSat mission—This Mylar antenna, compactly stowed for launch, unfolds in orbit to provide a large, high-gain aperture that dramatically enhances data return.

The second is a patch antenna solution. We have two of these patch antennas onboard the spacecraft. One was designed for the X-band to serve as the backup downlink solution, and the other was intended for the C-band to act as a radio beacon to be detected by ham radio operators worldwide.

The third antenna developed by FreeFall is the HF whip antenna for the WSPR experiment, which utilizes amateur radio stations worldwide to study the conditions of the ionosphere and accomplish the mission’s pedagogical aspects.”

Were any novel engineering techniques or concepts applied to improve antenna performance?

“We had to carefully design the feed for the inflatable spherical high-gain antenna. We needed to account for how the RF electronics payload would be positioned concerning the reflector. Therefore, the line feed design was developed and rigorously optimized to minimize spherical aberration while considering the deployment’s payload positioning and mechanical aspects. Our access to the ANSYS HFSS software greatly aided this design work.”

FreeFall Aerospace’s 10GHz Patch Antenna

For the patch antenna, the challenge was developing a solution that produced circular polarization to maximize the spacecraft’s downlink capability regardless of how it was oriented with respect to the 6.1m ground stations dedicated to picking up X-band signals from CatSat. From a design standpoint, most work focused on optimizing the interactions between the internal structure inside the patch and external features designed to produce circular polarization. Again, the ANSYS software greatly aided in this design work.

The HF whip antenna had to be designed to cover all the bands that ham radio operators utilized with the WSPR protocol and network. Therefore, its length was critical for correct operation, and we utilized established amateur radio rules of thumb and engineering practices to complete the design work. Also, the design process involved constant communication between the RF and mechanical teams to account for the deployment’s electrical and mechanical aspects to minimize risk and unexpected outcomes.

In addition, FreeFall designed the physical structure of the HF whip antenna and deployer. At the same time, Rincon Research was responsible for developing the HF upconverter electronics to optimize the throughput and X-band downlink of WSPR data for post-processing and scientific dissemination of the WSPR ionosphere experimental results. Their contribution was crucial to the success of the CatSat mission.

What testing phases were critical to ensure each antenna would perform reliably in orbit?

The most crucial test phases for validating the antennas to work in orbit are thermal-vac, vibe, and shock. These rigorous tests ensure the resilience and reliability of the antennas in the harsh conditions of space, providing reassurance to all stakeholders.

CatSat Continues:

Operating in low-Earth orbit, CatSat orbits Earth 15 times daily, relaying high-definition imagery and conducting ionospheric studies. The mission, led by Principal Investigator Dr. Walker and FreeFall Senior Engineer Dr. Aman Chandra, is not just a technological feat but also an inspiring educational demonstration that we can all support.

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2024 Summer Interns

At FreeFall Aerospace, we are thrilled to introduce a vibrant and talented group of interns eager to contribute their fresh perspectives and enthusiasm to our innovative projects. Our internship program provides hands-on experience to students in our community.

This summer, we’ve welcomed four exceptional students from the University of Arizona and Arizona State University. Each intern is enthusiastic and ready to learn and contribute to our mission of developing cutting-edge antenna solutions.

 

Shae Henley, Jessica Gurney, Harlie Rios, and Nicolas Renaud

Shae Henley: Bridging Space and Communication Technologies

Shae Henley recently graduated from the University of Arizona with a bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering and a minor in Astrobiology. As a graduate student, she is continuing her academic journey to complete her master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering. Shae was an advisor for NASA’s Arizona Space Grant and Resident Assistant in the Engineering Leadership Community. She held officer positions in the University of Arizona’s Society of Women Engineers and was the Director of Administration for the Engineering Student Council.

“I would like to get more experience developing and testing space and communications-based technologies and learn how to run astrodynamics simulations and calculate communications coverage models for satellites and other spacecraft,” Shae explains.

She received the USRA Distinguished Undergraduate 2023 Thomas R. McGetchin Memorial Scholarship Award and the Arizona Distinction Award. She was a Lillis Foundation Scholar from 2020-2024. In her free time, she enjoys hiking and rock climbing. By interning at FreeFall, Shae aims to gain valuable knowledge in RF technology, which will be instrumental in her future spacecraft projects.

 

Jessica Gurney: Navigating the Path Between Academia and Industry

Jessica Gurney, a senior at the University of Arizona, is pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Astronomy. She is keen to understand the inner workings of a tech design company and evaluate her future career path.

“I hope to understand the inner workings of a tech design company to determine whether I want to continue to grad school to do research or jump into the industry to build sophisticated products,” says Jessica.

Jessica graduated with Honors in AIT military training. She is also passionate about writing and anything craft-related, including bookbinding. Her inquisitiveness and drive to explore both academic and industrial avenues make her internship at FreeFall a pivotal step in her career journey.

Nicolas Renaud: Aspiring RF Engineer

Nicolas Renaud is an Arizona State University senior majoring in Physics and Astrophysics at Barrett Honors College, having made it to the Dean’s List for the past three years. Renaud is an officer and member of the Society of Physics Students and a student researcher at the Interplanetary Initiative Lab. He has a clear goal of becoming an RF engineer.

Nicolas is eager to learn about antenna system designs and operations. His commitment to mastering the technical aspects of RF engineering aligns with FreeFall’s innovative projects, and we are confident in his potential to contribute significantly to our mission.

 

Harlie Rios: Exploring Engineering Frontiers

Harlie Rios is embarking on her journey as a freshman at the University of Arizona, W.A. Franke Honors College, with a dual focus on Biomedical and Mechanical Engineering. She was in the Model UN, Racing the Sun, Student Council, Kairos 294 Co-rector, Stem Ambassadors, Spanish Honors Society, and National Honor Society. Harlie earned the CAMUN Vocal Commendation Award and Catholic Schools Week Awards. She is enthusiastic about discovering engineering’s real-world applications and gaining hands-on experience.

“I hope to learn what an engineer does, get experience in the workforce, and work on some cool projects,” Harlie shares. “This experience will help me determine what I want to do in college and the future.”

In her spare time, she enjoys reading and community service. Her curiosity and eagerness to explore different facets of engineering make her a valuable addition.

 

We are confident that Harlie, Shae, Jessica, and Nicolas will bring a fresh perspective and valuable contributions to our team this summer. Their diverse backgrounds and ambitious goals hold immense promise for our projects, and we are excited to see the impact they will make. Welcome to FreeFall Aerospace!

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The Emerge Accelerator is a 12-week program to propel venture creation and accelerate technology transition. It brings together DoD mission partners and emerging technology teams. What sets the NSIN Emerge Accelerator apart is its focus on facilitating collaboration between cutting-edge companies and top research universities. FreeFall’s Aman Chandra, Ph.D., is not only a University of Arizona alum but also leads our effort in this accelerator as our Senior Engineer for Aerospace Systems R&D.

FreeFall looks forward to leveraging this opportunity to pursue federal and commercial markets and strengthen our capabilities for doing business with the federal government and private sector.

“This journey wouldn’t be possible without the support of our incredible team, partners, the University of Arizona, and the NSIN – National Security Innovation Network community. We are excited about the possibilities and committed to making a lasting impact in satellite communications.”- Julie Bonner, Director of Communications

NSIN Official Press Release

The Emerge Accelerator connects DoD mission partners with emerging technology teams and startups at our nation’s top research universities.

Cutting-edge companies will demonstrate how intellectual property from top research universities can be commercialized for dual-use, civilian, and military markets during the next cohort of National Security Innovation Network (NSIN)’s Emerge Accelerator program.

The 12-week program offers participants funding to accelerate venture creation and technology transition. The program also offers access to feedback, advisors, and potential partners from the DoD and private industry. While pursuing federal and commercial markets is highly encouraged, the NSIN Emerge Accelerator excels at providing new ventures with the tools necessary to do business with the federal government and the private sector.

13 companies representing 13 unique academic institutions were accepted into the 2024 NSIN Emerge Accelerator. The teams have reached a Technology Readiness Level(TRL) of 4 (validation in a relevant environment) or greater, and have a technology vertical focus on artificial intelligence/machine learning (AI/ML), deep tech, autonomy, cyber security, and other general technology solutions.

Meet the 2024 Emerge Accelerator Cohort

ARMADA Marine Robotics, Inc.

Academic Institution: Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI)

ARMADA provides industry and the government with an innovative hardware platform and a cost-efficient operations model that will revolutionize in situ ocean monitoring at scale.

Covert Defenses

Academic Institution: Purdue University

Covert Defenses enables zero-downtime operation of industrial control systems in cyber-contested environments. Their solution allows for continuous operations, even if penetrated by an insider.

EMP Technology Solutions

Academic Institution: University of Texas at Dallas

EMP Technology Solutions has developed a system for radioisotope identification that is portable, scalable, modular, and network-compatible. Their system works quickly, detecting and identifying radioactive threats in about five seconds.

Fourier LLC

Academic Institution: Northeastern University

Fourier is commercializing the breakthrough platform technology of thermoformable technical ceramics. The company is bringing large-scale production to the manufacturing of technical ceramic parts for the first time.

FreeFall Aerospace, Inc.

Academic Institution: The University of Arizona

FreeFall Aerospace develops low-cost antennas for ground and space. The company’s flexible designs have dramatically lower maintenance needs, saving industry and the government time and money on sustainment operations.

L5vel Inc.

Academic Institution: Texas A&M University

L5vel is developing autonomy for all-terrain logistics. Its product, L5vel Prime, automates all-terrain forklifts.

MicroAvionics

Academic Institution: Harvard University

MicroAvionics is developing innovative levitation technology to enable flight in the mesosphere (50-100 km altitudes). The technology uses sunlight to generate thrust, eliminating the need for onboard fuel or power, offering a sustainable method to carry near-space payloads in a region that is inaccessible to conventional aircraft and satellites.

Mithril Technologies, Inc.

Academic Institution: Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

Mithril Technologies, Inc. is developing and commercializing a new type of space-based mesh reflector antenna using a unique electrostatic actuation technology invented at MIT to enable active beam focusing, shaping and steering. This active control allows flexibility in GEO satellite communications & jamming, signal intelligence, and space-based weather monitoring, with lighter & simpler structures than phased arrays.

ModiFly

Academic Institution: University of Texas at San Antonio

ModiFly offers an affordable drone networking solution with edge and cloud AI processing, supporting dynamic mission demands through plug-and-play modules.

Pi-Radio

Academic Institution: New York University

Pi-Radio builds software-defined radios (SDRs) that enable wireless systems prototypes for communications, sensing, and electronic warfare to be built quickly and affordably. Pi-Radio has been funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF) and Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) SBIR/STTR programs.

Refined Imaging LLC.

Academic Institution: Louisiana State University

Refined Imaging applies new X-ray and neutron imaging technology, along with key collaborators, to develop the secure supply chain.

SoloPulse Corp.

Academic Institution: Georgia Tech

SoloPulse unlocks sensing infrastructure without the need for new hardware. With the rise of autonomy, advanced threats, and the need for more intelligible data, SoloPulse offers the necessary solutions for fast, cost-effective, high-fidelity data from any existing sensor. By introducing the capability to see from any sensor, SoloPulse is changing how the world sees.

Spectrum Defense Systems

Academic Institutions: Purdue University and Ohio Northern University

Spectrum Defense Systems is a DoD-focused startup focused on providing electronic warfare decoy capabilities to the U.S Army. Its flagship product is the Dynamic Radio Emulator System (DRES).

About National Security Innovation Network

NSIN is a program office in the U.S. Department of Defense, nested within the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU). We are set up to collaborate with a wide variety of innovators to include universities, researchers, students, entrepreneurs and start-ups. We create opportunities for collaboration across communities and connect those that might not traditionally work in national security. Together, we help drive national security innovation and develop technologies that directly support the individuals responsible for protecting our country.

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