Home / Technology / Ex-OpenAI Exec Joins Rocket Startup Stoke Space
Ex-OpenAI Exec Joins Rocket Startup Stoke Space
8 Jul
Summary
- Kevin Weil joins Stoke Space's board, bringing tech expertise.
- Stoke Space is building a fully reusable rocket, Nova.
- The company has raised $1.34 billion for its reusable rocket.
Kevin Weil, a veteran executive from tech giants like Twitter, Meta, and OpenAI, has joined the board of directors at Stoke Space. This Seattle-based startup is currently developing a fully reusable rocket, named Nova, designed to rival SpaceX.
Weil's expertise, honed through roles at OpenAI, including leading scientific research acceleration and serving as chief product officer, is expected to aid Stoke Space's growth. The company has secured substantial funding, including a $510 million Series D round in 2025, totaling $1.34 billion to date.
Stoke Space's Nova rocket aims for complete reusability, a feat not yet achieved in the industry. This ambitious goal addresses the critical need for more launch vehicles, a demand highlighted by SpaceX's recent market success.
Weil's background also includes experience with the U.S. Army Reserve and as president of satellite company Planet Labs. His involvement could bridge the gap between Silicon Valley innovation and defense sectors, while also potentially enabling future space-based data centers.
Stoke Space acknowledges the significant challenges ahead but expresses confidence in executing its mission. The company's progress is closely watched as it moves toward delivering an operational launch vehicle.
