Texas Chapter

The Space Force Association – Texas Chapter highlights Texas’ critical role in advancing space innovation and launch capabilities, solidifying the state as a cornerstone of the nation’s space efforts. We support the U.S. Space Force mission by connecting military, industry, and academic communities across Texas, leveraging the state’s rich aerospace heritage and leadership in space technology. Our chapter promotes awareness of space-related advancements, advocates for policies that enhance national security, and invests in the professional development of space professionals. Through dynamic networking events, educational programs, and strategic partnerships, we empower members to drive the future of space exploration, ensuring the U.S. Space Force remains a leader in innovation and defense.

Chapter Leadership - Houston Satellite

Brian Creighton

Captain Brian Creighton has been with Southwest Airlines since 2007. Prior to that he served in the United States Air Force as a pilot. He is a staunch advocate for the U.S. military, specifically the Space Force. Captain Creighton is keenly aware of how critical space assets are to aviation and the importance of protecting those capabilities. He lives in The Woodlands, TX with his wife, Kathy.

Brian Creighton President

Susan Raitt

Susan Raitt possesses extensive experience in the aerospace, defense, and commercial space industries, focusing on business development, contract acquisition, and strategic partnerships. She has demonstrated her ability to secure multi-million-dollar contracts with prominent organizations, including Aegis Aerospace, the United States Space Force Association, New Mexico Spaceport Authority, and Empass Healthcare. As Director of Business Development at the New Mexico Spaceport Authority, Raitt significantly increased vertical launch activities and attracted prestigious clients such as Virgin Galactic and JAXA. Her role in event management and client development contributed to substantial revenue growth and industry recognition, including her ongoing partnership with the Experimental Rocket Association for the IREC Cup. At Empass Healthcare, she successfully led global expansion efforts, negotiating agreements that resulted in $25 million in new business opportunities across various regions. In her capacity as Vice President of Administration at the United States Space Force Association, Raitt has played a key role in organizational leadership and fundraising, enhancing the association’s influence. Her exceptional negotiation skills and strategic vision mark her as a leader in her field.

Susan Raitt VP - Administration

Meagan Crawford

An entrepreneur, business educator, space industry pioneer, experienced executive, and investor, Meagan co-founded the world’s longest-running space business plan competition, and has taught, coached, and advised hundreds of space startups through their earliest stages – including some of the current generation of successful companies. A leading advocate for women in space, she is also the host of the “Mission Eve” podcast.
Meagan is a strong believer in the power of free enterprise as the driving force that will lift humanity permanently oﬀ-world. She is a co-founder and managing partner of SpaceFund, a venture capital ﬁrm investing in space startups. She also sits on the board of directors of over a dozen organizations, including both space companies and nonproﬁts.
Meagan is a leading voice in the entrepreneurial space industry and an experienced startup executive and founder, with multiple exits under her belt. She is the host of the Mission Eve podcast that aims to increase the number of women in the space industry and is frequently featured by news media and academia as a thought leader on the industry’s development and investment potential.

Meagan Crawford Treasurer

Michael Ritchson

Michael Ritchson is an award-winning aerospace software engineer and a Senior Software Engineer at Tompkins Robotics, where he develops cutting-edge automation and AI-driven logistics solutions. With a career spanning over three decades in aerospace, software engineering, and robotics, Michael has worked on mission-critical NASA programs, advanced space-based data management systems, and next-generation automation technologies.

As a recipient of the NASA Exceptional Space Act Award, Michael has been recognized for his groundbreaking work in enterprise middleware solutions, software architecture, and satellite operations. His experience includes 17 years at NASA, where he led key software development efforts at Armstrong Flight Research Center, supporting projects like the SOFIA program, DC-8 portal, and satellite ground systems. He also held engineering roles at Boeing, IBM, and DynCorp International, specializing in aerospace software and automation.

Michael currently serves as Vice President of Recruiting for the Space Force Association Houston Satellite, where he helps connect talent with opportunities in the space industry.

A USAF veteran, Michael brings a deep understanding of aerospace operations, enterprise software, and cloud-based infrastructures. His technical expertise spans Java, Apache Kafka, Kubernetes, and microservices, making him a key innovator in space and defense technology.

Beyond his professional work, Michael is passionate about mentoring the next generation of space technologists, ensuring that innovation in aerospace software continues to push boundaries.

Michael Ritchson VP - Recruiting

Bosco Lai

Bosco Lai is the Co-Founder and CEO of Little Place Labs, which focuses on AI-driven solutions to deliver near-real-time insights for national security and commercial applications. His work advances space-based intelligence to support defense, environmental monitoring, and commercial space operations.

With a career spanning startups, climate-tech funds, and leadership roles at a top investment bank, Bosco brings a unique blend of technology, finance, and strategic innovation to the space industry. He holds an Executive MBA from the University of Oxford and has an engineering and science background from the University of Toronto and McMaster University.

As VP of Events at the Space Force Association Houston Chapter, Bosco is committed to promoting the work and presence of the U.S. Space Force, advocating for the space sector as a critical industry, and highlighting Houston’s pivotal role in the future of space.

Beyond his professional work, Bosco is passionate about fostering the next generation of space innovators as a father to two aspiring young astronauts!

Bosco Lai VP - Event Planning

Vacant

TBD Special Event Coordinator

Tasha Dienhina-Ritchson

As a Marketing Coordinator at the Space Force Association Houston Satellite, Tasha Ritchson supports the advocacy and awareness efforts of the U.S. Space Force, strengthening the connection between military, industry, and community.

Her career spans leadership roles in AI startups, strategic consulting, and digital media, where she has shaped product visions and brand identities for companies across multiple industries. Previously, she served as Head of Product at Unstuck Engine, driving AI-powered product strategies, and worked as a Brand Strategy Consultant, helping businesses refine their positioning in competitive markets.

Tasha holds a degree in Psychology and Consulting, equipping her with a deep understanding of behavioral science and consumer insights.

Beyond her professional work, she is passionate about bridging the gap between deep tech and effective communication, ensuring that groundbreaking technologies find their audience and impact.

Texas Chapter

Chapter Leadership - Houston Satellite

Brian Creighton President

Susan Raitt VP - Administration

Meagan Crawford Treasurer

Michael Ritchson VP - Recruiting

Bosco Lai VP - Event Planning

TBD Special Event Coordinator

Tasha Dienhina-Ritchson Marketing Coordinator

Join the SFA

Get in Touch

Follow us

Texas Chapter

Chapter Leadership - Houston Satellite

Brian Creighton President

Susan Raitt VP - Administration

Meagan Crawford Treasurer

Michael Ritchson VP - Recruiting

Bosco Lai VP - Event Planning

TBD Special Event Coordinator

Tasha Dienhina-Ritchson Marketing Coordinator

Join the SFA

Get in Touch

Follow us

get your gear here

sfa store