With the launch of VELO X Aerospace, Jeff Williams, Galen Geigley, and Jake Meyerink are igniting a
bold new era in personal air travel.
Building on the legacy of Soaring Concepts Aerospace, this leadership team blends decades of hands-on aviation expertise, engineering innovation, and entrepreneurial drive.
United by a vision for safer, more efficient, and sustainable personal flight, they’re pioneering the technologies and aircrafts that will redefine how future generations take to the skies.
Our Values
Leadership Team
Jeffery Williams
Jeff Williams is an exceptional entrepreneur and innovator who has made his mark across various industries, blending his expertise in engineering, aviation, and management with an unyielding passion for pushing the boundaries of technology and product development. With an impressive track record of building and running multiple successful companies, Jeff’s profile embodies a unique blend of business acumen and technical mastery.
Galen Geigley
Galen Geigley is a serial entrepreneur and aviation enthusiast whose career blends innovation, engineering skill, and a passion for flight. He has founded and operated multiple successful companies, known for spotting opportunities and turning them into thriving ventures. In aviation, he designed the Sky Trek two-person powered parachute and has test-flown more than 50 first-of-their-kind aircraft, specializing in gyroplanes and powered parachutes. His work also includes developing autonomous powered parachutes for government projects. As a Certified Flight Instructor in gyroplanes and powered parachutes, and a Private Pilot with an instrument rating, Galen continues to share his expertise while pursuing adventure, family, and the outdoors.
Jake Meyerink
Jake Meyerink is a versatile steel fabrication professional with experience across industries including boats, race cars, and commercial buildings. Known for strong leadership in purchasing, scheduling, and daily operations, he consistently delivers efficient, high-quality results. His deep industry knowledge allows him to manage complex projects with precision, while his ability to build and lead cohesive, high-performing teams sets him apart as a reliable and impactful leader on the production floor.
Thaddeus Pairitz
Thaddeus joined Velo X Aerospace with over fifteen years of electrical engineering experience and a strong record of innovation across consumer electronics, automotive systems, locomotive power, and defense. A Purdue graduate, he has led the design of low-power sensing systems, ESD-safe touch panels, high-power relay safety hardware, and advanced fly-by-wire controls for military applications. At Velo X, he focuses on power system optimization, hardware design, flight testing, and FAA compliance for the Velocitor X-1 and upcoming eVTOL platforms. Outside of work, he’s an avid outdoorsman and active inventor who enjoys experimenting with new ideas.
Chris Grondman
Chris Grondman is an accomplished technology expert whose career spans computer programming, aviation systems, and advanced electrical engineering. With a strong IT foundation, he has designed efficient software and complex platforms, later becoming a leader in developing precise, reliable autopilot systems that enhance modern flight. His expertise in batteries and advanced electrical systems has further pushed innovation in light sport and autonomous aircraft through energy-efficient, integrated power solutions. Known for his problem-solving and forward-thinking approach, Chris continues to drive progress at the intersection of technology and aviation.
Jim Faist
Jim Faist is a skilled fabricator and aviation expert known for precision craftsmanship, mechanical expertise, and a lifelong passion for flight. Beginning with building flight simulators at a young age, he developed strong fabrication skills that now focus on light sport weight-shift trikes and powered parachutes. His deep mechanical knowledge and hands-on problem-solving allow him to design and build reliable, high-performing aircraft systems, integrating components with meticulous attention to detail. Driven by innovation and a commitment to safety, Jim continues to push the boundaries of light sport aviation and set a high standard for quality in the field.
The Company behind the Velociters…
The brainchild of industry veterans Jeff Williams and Galen Geigley, who are also the innovative forces behind Soaring Concepts Aerospace. Building on their extensive experience and success, VELO X Aerospace aims to redefine personal air travel with unparalleled safety, efficiency, and sustainability.
