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Michael Madrid has a diverse work experience across various industries. Michael is currently serving as the Director of Strategic Relationships at Starfish Space, a venture-backed startup focused on developing autonomous, sustainable infrastructure in space. Prior to this, they held the role of Military Fellow at another organization.

In 2019, Michael co-founded Project Buna, a self-funded specialty coffee roasting startup that achieved profitability within two months of launch. Michael managed the company's operations and oversaw its growth in sales and customers.

Before that, Michael worked as a Strategy & Operations Advisor at Galvanick, where they were responsible for building internal knowledge management structures, coordinating partnerships, and supporting fundraising efforts.

Michael also has a strong background in the military. Michael served in the US Navy in various roles, including Action Officer at OPNAV N130, overseeing incentive programs and personnel compensation policies impacting thousands of Sailors daily. Michael also served as a Fire Control Officer and Division Officer during their time in the Navy.

Additionally, Michael has experience in the non-profit sector. Michael served as the Executive Director of the Defense Entrepreneurs Forum, overseeing the organization's day-to-day operations and managing a team of volunteers. Michael also directed the DEF2019 Conference, a national event with multiple speakers and attendees.

In their earlier career, Michael held positions such as Vice President and Director at CIMSEC, a think tank focused on maritime security, and Founder of the Innovators Initiative, an organization promoting innovation among Navy and Marine Corps officers.

Overall, Michael Madrid has a versatile work background encompassing leadership roles in startups, the military, and non-profit organizations.

Michael Madrid completed their Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Aeronautical Engineering with a minor in Arabic Language at the United States Naval Academy from 2010 to 2014. Michael also participated in the Fleet Seminar Program at the U.S. Naval War College from 2019 to 2021. Michael has obtained additional certifications, including Business Development Foundations, IoT Foundations, Agile Meets Design Thinking, Military Scrum Master, and Warfighter Centered Design. Michael is currently enrolled in the Stanford Ignite Certificate Program in Innovation and Entrepreneurship at Stanford University Graduate School of Business. Michael is also pursuing a Master of Arts (M.A.) in Defense and Strategic Studies with a Space Emphasis at the U.S. Naval War College, expected to be completed in 2023. In 2011, Michael engaged in experiential learning of small unit leadership and wilderness survival skills at NOLS. In 2012, they studied Classical Arabic and the Omani dialect at the Center for International Learning in Oman.