Overview

Orb.aero makes aviation more accessible by selecting high-skill individuals through its merit-based Orbship fellowship to work on real aviation and advanced manufacturing projects. Candidates go through a multi-step process—portfolio review, video interview, and a competitive Battle Royale pitch—after which winners join Orbship and work on contracts. The company sets itself apart by prioritizing proven skills and project work over traditional credentials and avoiding traditional flying-taxi models. Its goal is to democratize aviation opportunities by channeling talented outliers into meaningful aerospace challenges at scale.

Simplify's Take

What believers are saying

• Midwest capacity enables capex-free drone scaling for Philippines, Asheville, Ukraine markets.
• Autonomous systems from 10-pound drones to 3,000-pound aircraft deliver global village infrastructure.
• NAICS 541715 registration since September 2019 secures federal R&D manufacturing contracts.

What critics are saying

• Wisk Aero floods Philippines with cheaper Boeing-backed drones in 6–12 months.
• Zipline blocks NC, Africa contracts with medical drone dominance in 12–18 months.
• FAA delays ground Group 2+ UAS over 55lbs in 3–6 months.

What makes Orb Aerospace unique

• Orbship fellowship selects via project portfolios, video interviews, and Battle Royale pitches.
• First Michigan aircraft designer, builder, manufacturer since WWII via Michigan partnerships.
• Merit-based hiring targets skilled outliers without traditional education for aviation innovation.

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