Policy Advisor, Axiom Space
Shiv Patel is a Policy Advisor at Axiom Space, where he works at the intersection of commercial space development, national policy, and legislative action. He engages directly in congressional, appropriations, and interagency processes that shape whether emerging space capabilities move from concept to funded reality. His portfolio includes policy work related to Orbital Data Centers and other commercial infrastructure with implications for national security, economic development, and U.S. industrial leadership. By translating technical programs into actionable policy positions, he has contributed to efforts that secured tangible public investment and elevated commercial space issues within federal decision-making.
At Axiom Space, Shiv develops and executes legislative strategies across the House of Representatives, managing a broad portfolio of committees and issue areas with jurisdiction over space, defense, and technology. He has played a central role in shaping the policy narrative around Orbital Data Centers, helping stakeholders understand their national security, economic, and technological implications. Endorsers note that this work culminated in a major milestone: contributing to the successful effort to secure more than $5 million in funding from the Texas Space Commission’s Space Exploration and Aeronautics Research Fund, enabling the construction and operational launch of Orbital Data Centers in Texas.
Prior to joining Axiom Space, Shiv built a strong foundation in government affairs and national security space through roles spanning civil, commercial, and defense sectors. He developed deep familiarity with the federal authorization and appropriations process and successfully advocated for policy wins across multiple companies. Earlier experiences at organizations including SpinLaunch, the Satellite Industry Association, and the Commercial Space Federation gave him a sector-wide perspective that informs his current work and enhances his credibility with policymakers.
Colleagues describe Shiv as an effective and accessible communicator for congressional staff working through highly technical issues. He is frequently relied upon as a go-to resource on Capitol Hill and has led numerous member site visits, enabling lawmakers to engage directly with commercial space capabilities and operators. In parallel, he co-founded and co-hosts a monthly forum in Washington, DC that convenes nearly every major space company with a local presence alongside the full range of government agencies responsible for space policy, creating a rare venue for sustained cross-sector dialogue.
Beyond his professional responsibilities, Shiv serves as Education Committee Chair for the Washington Space Business Roundtable. In this role, he directs funding toward underserved communities across the DMV region, supporting STEM exposure for elementary, middle, and high-school students. To date, his efforts have helped allocate approximately $15,000 to enable student visits to the National Air and Space Museum.
