Gregor Veble Mikić is a true innovator, a distinguished scientist, and a compassionate leader who has made significant contributions to the fields of aviation and technology. His dedication and expertise have earned him recognition as a Titan of Tech within the Santa Cruz community. Keep reading to learn more about his background and accomplishments.

A Journey Marked by Innovation

Gregor's path began with a Ph.D. in Physics from the University of Ljubljana, Slovenia. His unwavering commitment to scientific progress is evident in his early career as an Assistant and then Associate Professor of Physics at the University of Nova Gorica. Transitioning from academia to industry, Gregor brought his exceptional knowledge to propel the boundaries of aviation at Pipistrel Aircraft, where he served as Head of Research.

Gregor's fingerprints are on many revolutionary products there including the Panthera general aviation aircraft, a project that perfectly balanced functionality with performance. He was also instrumental in the success of the Taurus G4, an aircraft that triumphed in the NASA Green Flight Challenge in 2011, showcasing his commitment to sustainable aviation solutions.

Leading the Charge in Sustainable Aviation

In 2015, Gregor's journey took him to Santa Cruz, where he joined Joby Aviation as Chief Aerodynamicist and Head of Flight Physics. His contributions there have been nothing short of indispensable. One of his first achievements was writing the code for Joby's aerodynamics simulator, a crucial tool for optimizing the efficient S4 design.

Gregor's exceptional talent was further recognized in 2016 when he received the prestigious AIAA Piper General Aviation Award for his outstanding contributions to the field. Since then, he has been personally involved in designing and optimizing the aerodynamics and propulsion systems of every Joby aircraft concept, many of which remain under wraps. His technical expertise has resulted in a substantial portfolio of patents related to design, acoustics, and systems for next-generation aircraft.

Today, Gregor leads a team of over 70 world-class engineers who are spearheading the development of some of Joby's most cutting-edge technologies. This includes the development of flight control code that grants Joby's electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft unprecedented stability and control. A recent world record was achieved by a part of Gregor's team when they converted a Joby S4 aircraft to fly over 500 miles on liquid hydrogen. These remarkable accomplishments are propelling the aviation industry towards a future of sustainable and advanced air mobility.

Beyond Technical Expertise: A Remarkable Character

What truly sets Gregor apart is his exceptional character. His deep empathy, humility, and intelligence are woven into the fabric of his being. Known for his calm demeanor, Gregor is a patient listener and a hard worker who approaches challenges with unwavering determination. His approachability and warmth make him a beloved figure not just at Joby, but across the aviation industry.

Gregor's leadership style fosters a collaborative and innovative environment, where engineers are encouraged to push boundaries while maintaining the highest standards of quality and safety. His deep love for animals extends to his adoration for his cats and the marine life in Monterey Bay. Perhaps his spirit animal best captures his essence: the rarely seen Otta-Wal-At, a mythical creature that blends the otter, the whale, and the cat!

A Titan Worthy of Recognition

Gregor Veble Mikić's remarkable blend of technical mastery, visionary leadership, unwavering integrity, and genuine compassion make him a perfect Titan. His contributions are a testament to the power of expertise combined with a passion for innovation and a desire to make a positive impact on the world. Santa Cruz is fortunate to have a Titan like Gregor, whose work continues to shape the future of aviation and technology.