Colonel Steve (Bucky) Butow leads the Space Portfolio for the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) where he facilitates the US-DoD’s access to new and potentially disruptive commercial technology involving small satellites, responsive launch, space situational awareness, and reduced latency satellite communications. Colonel Butow is a former Vice Chief of the Joint Staff, California Military Department, and Commander of the 129th Rescue Wing at Moffett Field, California. His experience includes ten overseas deployments in the Middle East and the Horn of Africa supporting combat and contingency operations at the tactical and operational levels. Colonel Butow holds a Bachelor’s degree in Physics and Astronomy from San Jose State University and a Master’s Degree in Strategic Air and Space Studies from the University of Maryland. He is a rated command pilot with more than 3,500 flying hours in T-37, T-38, C-130, HC-130, and MC-130P aircraft.