The Delta Spacecraft: Bell and Virgin Galactic’s Pioneering Partnership

Bell, renowned for its vertical lift technology innovation, is breaking new ground in aerospace engineering through its partnership with Virgin Galactic. The companies are collaborating on the Delta class spacecraft, a revolutionary vehicle designed to make regular space tourism a reality.

Announced in November 2022, Bell Textron Inc. was selected as a primary supplier for Virgin Galactic’s Delta class spaceships. Bell is responsible for manufacturing critical components, including the unique feathering system and flight control surfaces. This partnership has evolved from an initial intellectual property transaction into a comprehensive collaboration, leveraging Bell’s expertise in design, manufacturing, and advanced composite materials.

The Delta spacecraft, designed to fly with multiple passengers, represents a significant advancement in commercial spaceflight. This project showcases Bell’s ability to apply its extensive experience to the challenges of spaceflight, demonstrating the company’s adaptability and innovative spirit.

Carey Cross: From Bell Intern to Bell’s Engineering Manager supporting Virgin Galactic

At the heart of this groundbreaking project is Carey Cross, who has risen through the ranks, from starting as a Bell intern to becoming the Virgin Galactic Engineering Manager. Cross’ journey at Bell exemplifies the company’s commitment to fostering talent and providing diverse opportunities for growth and innovation.

Cross’ Bell career began as an engineering intern in Structural Dynamics, progressing through various roles that each contributed uniquely to his professional development. Starting full-time as an Engineer I and II in Fatigue & Fracture, Cross gained foundational experience in fatigue life predictions, flight test telemetry, and full-scale testing. Later, his role as Engineering Specialist in Structural Dynamics provided crucial experience in developmental programs, teaching him to balance risks with program requirements preparing him for his work on Virgin Galactic.

Cross developed his leadership skills during his time as a Senior Ops Alignment Specialist, improving his ability to present technical data to executives and make decisive decisions under ambiguous circumstances. His transition to Manager of Innovation Structures marked his first leadership role and introduced him to airframe design, proving crucial for his current position.

Embracing New Challenges

Cross’ involvement in the Virgin Galactic project began during his time as Manager of Innovation Structures at Bell. When the opportunity arose to write a proposal for licensing intellectual property to Virgin Galactic, Cross was given the flexibility to pursue this exciting new venture while managing his existing responsibilities.

Cross then got to build the team, receiving the unique opportunity to transition from proposal writing to team management in a rapidly evolving project. This flexibility and support from Bell allowed Cross to chase his dream of working on spaceships without having to relocate his family or leave the company he had grown to love.

Cross recalls, “We started in a small room with 10 people. We found 2 big computer monitors in a closet and set up shop. Fast forward two and a half years later, we have 100 individuals working on the project with a 96% retention rate.” This rapid growth underscores the project’s importance and the enthusiasm it has generated within Bell and Virgin Galactic.

Bell’s Commitment to Employee Growth and Innovation

Cross’ story serves as an inspiring example of how engineers at Bell can build fulfilling careers while working on revolutionary projects. His progression from intern to project leader demonstrates the opportunities available at Bell for those willing to embrace new challenges and continuously learn.

By providing a supportive environment that encourages professional growth and innovation, Bell ensures it remains at the forefront of aerospace technology. Bell tackles ambitious projects like the Delta spacecraft while driving employee growth and exploration has been instrumental in retaining top talent and fostering innovation.

Conclusion: Bell’s Continuing Legacy of Innovation

By providing opportunities for engineers like Carey Cross to work on cutting-edge projects while growing their careers, Bell ensures that it remains a leader in both traditional vertical lift technology and the emerging field of commercial spaceflight.

Bell’s contributions will play a crucial role in shaping the future of space travel. For engineers and aerospace enthusiasts alike, Bell’s involvement in the Delta spacecraft project represents an unprecedented opportunity to be part of history in the making, all while building on a legacy of innovation that spans more than 85 years.