About Dr Sarah Cannard

Dr Sarah Cannard is an experienced Senior Engineer and Project Manager with over 15 years of demonstrated history working for Nova Systems in the defence and space industry. Sarah is currently the Industry Director at the SmartSat CRC and the Project Lead for the AROSE Lunar Service Rover program as part of the Australian Space Agency’s Moon to Mars initiative.

Sarah has a degree in Mechanical Engineering, a Bachelor of Science (Physics) and holds a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD, Engineering) from the University of Adelaide. Sarah is also a Fellow with Engineers Australia, an Amelia Earhart Fellow, and a Graduate of the AICD.

Prior to her current roles, Sarah has been involved with many complex defence, space and civil programs including the JAXA Hayabusa I Spacecraft re-entry, hypersonic rocket launches, Woomera Test Range trials and activities, the Joint Navy/DSTG Autonomous Warrior 18 activity, and the Hunter Class Frigate Program. She was pinnacle in founding the AROSE consortium and lead the Australian Remote Operations Capability review as Program Director.

Sarah has a deep passion for space and growing a sovereign Australian industry through cross-sector collaboration and pushing the frontiers of space technology. She is also passionate about STEM and creating opportunities for current and future generations.