Celebrating Innovation: Highlights from the 4th Annual Moonshot Shoemaker Awards

Moonshot Shoemaker Awards Celebrate Innovation and Community in Flagstaff

Flagstaff, AZ – September 18, 2025 – A night of elegance and inspiration unfolded at the 4th Annual Moonshot Shoemaker Awards, held at the newly unveiled Astronomical Discovery Center at Lowell Observatory. The event, which transformed the space into a stunning ballroom, celebrated the vibrant entrepreneurial spirit of Flagstaff and honored key figures in the community.

“This evening was a beautiful celebration of what makes Moonshot and Flagstaff’s entrepreneurial ecosystem so special,” said Moonshot President and CEO Scott Hathcock. The awards recognized individuals and organizations that exemplify innovation, collaboration, and community building.

Among the honorees was Paul Sciame, who received the prestigious 2025 Mission Control Award. Sciame, known for his impactful career as general manager at Tweddle Group Technologies, expressed his gratitude, stating, “It’s a humbling experience. I’m blessed to have the luxury of time to mentor entrepreneurs. My mission is to pour back into people the best that I can.”

The 2025 Shoemaker Award was presented to Katalyst Space Technologies, a company pioneering in-space servicing capabilities for satellites. Mountain Mojo Group, last year’s recipient, also celebrated their achievements, with CEO Rand Jenkins reflecting on their journey from humble beginnings to a thriving agency that now offers comprehensive employee benefits.

Dr. Megan Engbring, of Flagstaff Optimal Health and Weight Management, was honored with the inaugural Campus Community Builder Award. Her initiatives, including free health assessments and stress reduction techniques, aim to foster a healthier community. “This honor was incredibly meaningful to me,” she shared, emphasizing the importance of addressing loneliness and emotional support in today’s society.

The evening was not just about recognition; it was a testament to the collaborative spirit that drives Flagstaff’s entrepreneurial landscape. “The evening was about recognizing achievement, but more importantly, it’s about honoring the community we’re building together – one that’s launching Flagstaff’s next generation of world-changing companies,” Hathcock remarked.

The Shoemaker Awards also featured live music and a gourmet dinner, with support from Desert Financial Credit Union, further enhancing the celebratory atmosphere.

As the night concluded, attendees left inspired, ready to continue their journeys of innovation and community building in Flagstaff.