By Faith Tng, Education & Professional Development Lead & Ian van den Broek, National Point of Contact for The Netherlands, Space Generation Advisory Council (SGAC)
The small satellite sector continues to transform the global space industry, enabling faster innovation cycles, expanding commercial participation, and opening new pathways into space activities worldwide. As the ecosystem grows, one challenge remains central: connecting emerging talent with the organizations driving this new era of space development.
The Space Generation Advisory Council (SGAC) is therefore proud to announce its participation in SmallSat Europe 2026, where we will host a dedicated engagement space focused on mentoring opportunities and direct interaction between industry employers and the next generation of space professionals.
A Hub for Europe’s Expanding SmallSat Community
Taking place May 26–28, 2026, at the RAI Convention Centre in Amsterdam, SmallSat Europe has become one of Europe’s leading gatherings dedicated to small satellite innovation. The event convenes engineers, startups, established aerospace companies, investors, agencies, and policymakers to explore advances shaping modern space missions.
As small satellites increasingly support communications, Earth observation, security applications, and scientific research, events like SmallSat Europe play a critical role in connecting technology development with workforce growth. The 2026 edition is expected to welcome thousands of participants and a growing exhibition presence, reflecting the continued expansion of Europe’s commercial space ecosystem.
SGAC: Connecting Talent with Opportunity
The Space Generation Advisory Council represents students and young professionals to the global space community, including the United Nations, industry, academia, and space agencies. Founded following recommendations from UNISPACE III, SGAC works to empower emerging leaders and foster international collaboration in the peaceful uses of outer space.
With over 39,000 members spanning more than 160 countries, SGAC has become a unique global talent network—bringing together engineers, scientists, policy specialists, entrepreneurs, and business professionals at early stages of their careers.
Creating Direct Pathways Between Industry and Emerging Talent
At SmallSat Europe 2026, SGAC’s dedicated space will serve as a meeting point where companies and organizations can engage directly with this international talent pool.
Throughout the conference, participating companies will have opportunities to connect with SGAC members through mentoring discussions, informal networking sessions, and career-focused exchanges. The goal is simple: reduce barriers between employers and emerging professionals by creating accessible, human-centered conversations within the conference environment.
For young professionals, these interactions provide insight into industry needs, hiring expectations, and evolving career pathways. For companies, the space offers access to a diverse and globally connected community of motivated candidates actively contributing to space projects and initiatives.
Strengthening the Workforce Behind the SmallSat Revolution
The success of the small satellite sector depends not only on technological advancement but also on building a sustainable and inclusive workforce capable of supporting long-term growth.
By integrating mentoring and recruitment engagement directly into SmallSat Europe, SGAC aims to help companies discover new talent while enabling young professionals to transition more effectively into the global space industry.
Events like SmallSat Europe demonstrate how conferences can serve as catalysts not only for innovation and partnerships, but also for workforce development and community building across generations.
We look forward to welcoming attendees to Amsterdam and collaborating with industry partners to empower the people who will shape the future of the small satellite ecosystem.
Delegates can register for the event at: https://bit.ly/sgacxsmallsateu26
For queries on participation: [email protected]
