Executive · Engineer · Founder

Michael Nicolls

SpaceXAIPresidentSpaceXSenior Vice President, Starlink

Nicolls built and led engineering for Starlink's broadband and Direct-to-Cell systems across satellites, terminals, ground infrastructure, network software, and constellation operations. Earlier, he co-founded LeoLabs and developed radar and sensing systems at SRI.

Career & education

Current roles

SpaceXAIApr 2026-present

President

SpaceXNov 2020-present

Senior Vice President, Starlink

Previously

LeoLabsDec 2015-Nov 2020

Co-founder and Chief Technology Officer

SRI InternationalOct 2006-Jun 2016

Research Engineer; Staff Scientist and Program Manager

Education

Cornell University

Work and education history is primarily focused on AI-relevant roles and may not be comprehensive.

Updates 1

MoveMichael Nicolls becomes president of xAI

The longtime Starlink engineering executive has taken operational leadership of xAI while retaining his SpaceX affiliation.

About this profile

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Reviewed July 18, 2026 · Checked for accuracy and new information.