Southland space man claims inaugural Prime Minister’s award
“His passion and enthusiasm, and his commitment over many years, has undoubtedly had a huge impact on the space sector in this province and around the country."
Southland’s Robin McNeill has been awarded the inaugural Prime Minister’s Space Prize for Professional Excellence.
McNeill is the founder and chief executive of Space Operations (SpaceOps) New Zealand Ltd which is owned by Great South - Southland’s regional development agency.
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said the Government established the new space prizes to recognise and encourage innovative expertise and rising talent in the industry.
“Robin’s knowledge, energy, and commitment have contributed to the development of New Zealand’s space industry.
“His efforts over many years have delivered significant advancements and capability that will continue to support industry growth and outcomes for New Zealanders,” Luxon said.
McNeill was awaded $100,000 for claiming the Prime Minister’s Space Prize for Professional Excellence.
Invercargill MP Penny Simmonds said it was a big moment for McNeill and was “also huge for Southland and for the space industry in this province”.
“His passion and enthusiasm, and his commitment over many years, has undoubtedly had a huge impact on the space sector in this province and around the country,” Simmonds said.
Space Ops was originally started under Venture Southland, now Great South, and McNiell was quick to acknowledge the support given to him by his boss in those early years - Steve Canny.
With Rocket Lab founder Sir Peter Beck originally from Southland, and now McNeill blazing a 'space trail' for Southland, McNeill’s commented in his acceptance speech, that within overseas space circles Invercargill is better known than Wellington.
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McNeill has designed and built ground stations in Antarctica, Tokelau and Southland.
He has played a critical role in deepening New Zealand’s space relationship with the European Space Agency. The relationship has also included scholarships and other benefits to Southland students, one of which was the Kepler Space Camp for 70 local students.
SpaceOps New Zealand also continues to collaborate with Great South’s “Youth Futures” programme. From 2008-2013 the programme helped double the number of students completing Year 13 physics in Invercargill.
McNeill supervises post-graduate students undertaking space research and SpaceOps New Zealand employs undergraduate engineering students in summer jobs.
Through SpaceOps New Zealand, McNeill has been responsible for growing a pipeline of engineers and employees who have the necessary skills and experience to deliver future impact.