Wed, 21 May 2025 When SSTL was formed forty years ago, Dan Nye was at school dreaming of becoming a vet. He went on to study Natural Science at Brunel University, with hopes of a career in Forensic Science. However, Dan eventually realised lab work wasn’t for him and found a role in IT at a phonecard manufacturer, where he quickly excelled. Within three years, he became a network manager at an online travel agent and then in 2001, Dan transitioned to the space industry with Sira Ltd as an infrastructure engineer.

Dan joined SSTL in 2006 as part of the infrastructure team and became Infrastructure Manager in 2011. He was instrumental championing for improved security, setting up the IT Security Team in 2019. By 2021, he became IT Manager while continuing to lead our cybersecurity efforts.

Reflecting on his 19 years at SSTL, Dan notes, "The changes I have seen at SSTL over the last 19 years are huge.. from a university spin-out with very little security, to a heavily secured business due to the evolving threat landscape we now face. It’s been a fascinating evolution."

From aspiring vet to cyber guardian of satellites, Dan’s career reflects the journey of SSTL itself – growing, adapting and building resilience in an ever-changing world.