Our team
The Minds and Hands Behind the Mission.
We are a dedicated team of engineers, operators, and visionaries committed to solving the ocean’s toughest challenges.
Leadership
Michael Kelly
Co-Founder & CTO
Michael is the technical architect of the xNode platform. With a deep background in mechanical engineering and ocean systems, he leads the design, development, and at-sea testing of Dolphin Labs’ core technologies. He is an expert in wave energy conversion, naval architecture, and the design of robust systems for harsh environments. Michael is driven by the challenge of solving complex engineering problems with elegant, reliable solutions.
Rolle Hogan
Co-Founder & CEO
Rolle is a lifelong entrepreneur and maritime enthusiast with a passion for building technologies that have a real-world impact. With a background in finance and operations, he leads the company’s strategic vision and business development efforts. He believes that persistent, autonomous technology is the key to unlocking a safer and more sustainable blue economy. Rolle is dedicated to building a world-class team and a culture of innovation and adventure.
Engineering & Operations
The specialists who design, build, test, and deploy the xNode platform.
Tracy Nguyen
Project Manager
Tracy keeps the mission on track. She manages the complex timelines and logistics of our engineering, testing, and deployment efforts. Her expertise in project management ensures that we deliver on our promises, on time and on budget.
Gordon Keller
Embedded Software Engineer
Gordon writes the code that makes the xNode autonomous. He develops the embedded software for the onboard controller, including the intelligent power management algorithms, the autonomous survivability logic, and the remote command and control system.
Daniel Sadlier
Mechanical Engineer
Daniel is a hands-on mechanical engineer responsible for turning CAD models into reality. He specializes in prototyping, fabrication, and the mechanical design of the xNode’s structural and power take-off systems.
Jack Gallegos
Electrical Engineer
Jack leads the design of the xNode’s electrical systems, from the power management and battery systems to the sensor integration and data acquisition hardware. He is responsible for the electronic nervous system of the platform.
Chris Simotas
Mechanical Engineer
Chris focuses on the dynamic and hydrodynamic analysis of the xNode platform. He uses advanced simulation tools to model the system’s performance in a wide range of sea states, optimizing for power generation and survivability.
Our Advisors
We are fortunate to be guided by industry leaders with deep expertise in maritime technology, defense, and business development.
Kelly McGannon
Advisor
Kelly McGannon is a former CIA Senior Intelligence Officer with 20 years of experience shaping US technology policy and national security. A Yale and Princeton alumna and certified executive coach, Kelly leverages her expertise in disruption analysis to help startups navigate US and NATO governments and solve complex operational challenges.
John Neagley
Advisor
Retired Navy Rear Admiral John Neagley is the founder of Blue Native Consulting, bringing 35 years of executive experience in maritime technology and complex acquisitions. A collaborative leader and expert problem solver, John will help us navigate the US Department of the Navy and optimize program management to realize our full potential.
Hani Elshahawi
Advisor
A former Shell GameChanger and renowned innovator, Hani Elshahawi brings three decades of energy industry expertise and a global perspective from working in over 10 countries. As an active angel investor and startup advisor, Hani will help us accelerate growth, navigate digital transformation, and bridge the gap between technical concepts and commercial success.
Nigel Sharp
Advisor
A 3x founder and Techstars alum, Nigel Sharp is a Venture and Ecosystem Architect specializing in deep tech and AI. With a #givefirst mindset, he builds the strategic blueprints that connect startups with global corporations. Nigel will help us architect a thriving innovation ecosystem and accelerate our growth through disciplined design thinking.
Chris Rauch
Advisor & Co-Founder
A University of Michigan naval architecture alumnus, Chris is a founding partner and former Chief Engineer of Dolphin Labs Ocean. Now a key strategic advisor, he leverages his deep expertise in marine engineering and wave energy technology to ensure our hardware remains at the cutting edge of ocean innovation.
Want to Join Our Mission?
We are building a team of the best and brightest to solve some of the most important challenges of our time. If you are a passionate, hands-on problem-solver, we want to hear from you.