On Orbit
Semiconductors, Satellites, and Scale With Spirit Electronics CEO Marti McCurdy
On Orbit
•March 3, 2026•30 min
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On Orbit•Mar 3, 2026
Why It Matters
Semiconductor reliability is a linchpin for satellite performance, yet the space supply chain is fragmented and vulnerable to geopolitical and logistical disruptions. Understanding Spirit Electronics’ integrated approach offers industry players a roadmap for reducing risk, accelerating development cycles, and meeting the soaring demand for new‑space constellations, making this episode especially relevant as the sector scales.
Key Takeaways
- •Spirit Electronics offers end‑to‑end semiconductor design to box‑build services.
- •Agile high‑mix, low‑volume production meets new‑space startup demands.
- •Integrated distribution reduces supply‑chain steps, cutting cost and schedule.
- •AI‑driven reporting improves real‑time visibility of parts flow.
- •Veteran leadership emphasizes discipline, security, and customer trust.
Pulse Analysis
Spirit Electronics positions itself as a true vertical in the semiconductor supply chain for aerospace and defense. From custom ASIC design and foundry access to wafer processing, packaging, die‑level testing, and final box‑build, the company can deliver a flight‑ready component with a single purchase order. This end‑to‑end capability trims the typical seven‑to‑eight‑vendor chain to one, slashing both cost and schedule for satellite programs. In an industry where high‑reliability parts are non‑negotiable, such integration gives satellite builders confidence that every component meets space‑grade qualifications.
New‑space startups thrive on rapid iteration, and Spirit’s high‑mix, low‑volume production line matches that tempo. By leveraging AI‑driven reporting and a robust Oracle JD Edwards ERP, customers receive real‑time updates on part location, yield, and delivery dates, reducing uncertainty in launch schedules. The company also offers just‑in‑time manufacturing and secure U.S.-only sourcing, mitigating tariff volatility that has plagued many supply chains since 2022. This combination of agility and transparency lets small satellite firms access the same high‑reliability components used by legacy defense programs without the overhead of multiple vendors.
CEO Marti McCurdy draws on her Air Force background to instill disciplined, mission‑focused processes across the organization, a trait that resonates with defense customers and reinforces trust in critical space hardware. Her veteran‑led team, many of whom are currently deployed, underscores the company’s commitment to national security and reliability. Looking ahead to 2026, Spirit plans to expand AI‑assisted test development and deepen partnerships with emerging women leaders in aerospace, signaling a broader cultural shift. This blend of technical depth, supply‑chain resilience, and inclusive leadership positions Spirit as a differentiator for both legacy primes and the fast‑moving new‑space ecosystem.
Episode Description
Semiconductors are foundational to satellite operations, powering everything from communications payloads, to sensing, and propulsion control. As CEO of Spirit Electronics, Marti McCurdy's work is at the heart of the semiconductor supply chain.
Spirit Electronics offers semiconductor services that range from ASIC design and foundry, to wafer processing, and qualification. The company has always served a mix of defense and space, but is seeing growth in its space business in recent years with the uptick of growth in the industry. Marti says the work isn't new; it's just applying the company's expertise in semiconductors to a new customer base.
In this episode, Marti shares the ins and outs of semiconductor supply chains and the work that goes into being a trusted manufacturing partner. She also shares what's in store for Spirit Electronics in 2026 and how AI is impacting the company's work in test development.
This episode of On Orbit is brought to you by Spirit Electronics is a supplier of high reliability electronic components, engineering services, and superior supply-chain solutions.
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