History

1981

Innovating for more than 40 years

Present

Orion Development Corporation was founded by Herman L Pickens in the late 1970s. Herman worked extensively with NASA and the FBI over the years with patents dating back to 1981. Herman was an inventor and tinkerer. Now, over 40 years later, we are pleased to continue his legacy of innovation.

Our CEO, Sarah (Pickens) Thomas inherited the company, rights, and legacy hardware and designs from her grandfather, Herman. An inventor and mathematician, Sarah has been featured in publications, TV shows, and news segments for her rocket bike and other fun inventions she’s built with her father over the years.

Our President, Josiah Thomas, has a background in Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering. Josiah worked in the defense industry for years before taking a leading role with Orion Development.
Ground

Our Technical Officers, Tim & Melanie Pickens, have years of experience in the Aerospace and propulsion industry. Tim Pickens is an entrepreneur, inventor, innovator, engineer and educator. He specializes in commercial space, technical product development and solutions, and business consulting and strategy for space and technical companies. He is known for applying a lean philosophy to develop creative solutions and innovative partnerships to provide responsive, low-cost products and services for government and private industry.
To learn more about what technical problems they are currently solving, please visit their website.