Max Ismailov

Max Ismailov is an accomplished aerospace engineer and entrepreneur with extensive experience in propulsion systems. Currently serving as the Director of the Leadership Board at Space Northwest, Max Ismailov is focused on fostering space cluster growth in Washington State. As the Founder and CEO of Rocket Propulsion Systems, Max Ismailov leads the development of innovative propulsion technologies. Previous roles include Director of Propulsion at Firefly Aerospace and Lead Propulsion Engineer at Stratolaunch, where Max Ismailov contributed to significant propulsion advancements for various launch vehicles. Experience at SpaceX involved leading critical development and testing of the Raptor engine, along with earlier positions at Blue Origin and Purdue University, where Max Ismailov earned a Ph.D. in Rocket Propulsion.