Richard Kolacz

Richard is an engineer, businessman and former naval officer with over 40 years experience in the space, defence and maritime sectors, with a proven track record of bringing innovation to market.

Richard completed his Engineering Degree at the University of Alberta in 1982. After graduation Richard enrolled in the Canadian Navy as a Combat Systems Engineer. Richard served in a number of positions in destroyers at sea and ashore. He also served ashore in the former Yugoslavia where his contribution was recognized by the Privy Council of Canada.  Richard completed his Master's Degree in Guided Weapon Systems at the Royal Military College of Science, Cranfield University.

Richard joined COM DEV, a Canadian Space Technology company in 1998 where he led initiatives related to satellite communications, as well as Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance programs. In 2008, in response to US and Canadian requirements post 9/11 Richard assembled a team which designed, built, launched and operated the worlds first dedicated maritime monitoring satellite, which has revolutionized the maritime commercial, civil and defence sectors.

Richard engaged with CAE to support their expansion into naval markets. He led the successful capture of a major international naval training opportunity in the middle east. As a result of this success he was selected to lead CAE’s global naval activity focusing on the Middle East, Australia, Asia, Europe, North and South America.

Richard established GSTS to exploit the innovation in satellite and sensor technologies and advances in Artificial Intelligence. GSTS is a world leader in the development of innovative solutions related to maritime safety, security, environmental protection and logistics. His goal is to use technology make the world a safer, cleaner and equitable home for all.