The Hertz Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to advancing American scientific and technological leadership, today announced the election of Stephen (Steve) Pearse, managing partner of Yucatan Rock Ventures, to its board of directors.
Pearse brings decades of proven success in high-technology and entrepreneurial ventures. As CEO of Cyras Systems, he led one of Silicon Valley’s fastest-growing startups—increasing its valuation from $15 million to the $2.7 billion sale price to Ciena Corporation. He has also held senior leadership roles at major telecommunications companies, including serving as executive vice president at Bay Networks / Nortel Networks. Today, through Yucatan Rock Ventures, he invests in and advises science- and technology-driven companies, drawing on deep experience in engineering, governance and strategic leadership.
Pearse’s commitment to advancing science and technology extends beyond industry. He is a former director of the NASA Advisory Council (NAC), where he helped guide strategic priorities for America’s space program. In 2024, he joined the inaugural board of directors of the Foundation for Energy Security and Innovation (FESI), a nonprofit established under the CHIPS and Science Act, to support the U.S. Department of Energy in addressing energy and environmental challenges. In his role as vice chairman, Pearse is helping accelerate and commercialize breakthrough science with implications for national security, economic competitiveness and global innovation.
“I’m excited for the opportunity to help the foundation further its mission to empower the nation’s most promising scientific leaders—and just as important, to boldly communicate that mission to the rest of the world.”
Pearse earned a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from Georgia Institute of Technology, an MBA in information technology from Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and a master’s in electrical and telecommunications engineering from Stevens Institute of Technology.
“Steve’s breadth of experience — from scientific research and corporate leadership to national advisory roles — will be invaluable to the board,” said Stephen Fantone, chair of the Hertz Foundation Board of Directors. “His ability to translate technical insight into institutional strategy aligns powerfully with the foundation’s mission.”
Pearse believes strongly in the Hertz Foundation model of investing in people with exceptional talent across disciplines. With experience spanning industry, government and academia, Pearse brings an exceptional ability to identify opportunities and bring them to life.
“Steve brings strategic perspective, a deep understanding of technology-driven innovation and a commitment to translating ideas into impact,” said Wendy Connors, president of the Hertz Foundation. “We’re thrilled to welcome him to the board.”
Pearse joins two other new board members: Hertz Fellow Megan Blewett, investor, Scion Life Sciences; and Hertz Fellow and Nobel laureate John C. Mather, senior astrophysicist, NASA Goddard Space Flight Center, as an honorary board member.
Interview with Stephen Pearse
We sat down with Pearse to learn more about his work and what he hopes to contribute to the organization.
What are you working on right now that’s most exciting to you?
Pearse: Right now, I’m deeply energized by my role as vice chairman of the Foundation for Energy Security and Innovation (FESI), where I help accelerate and commercialize America’s best science for security and innovation. I love contributing to our nation’s economic and defense strength while championing the critical thinking skills so vital to scientific advancement and to our nation’s well-being.
Why is joining the board important to you?
Pearse: After attending the Hertz Summer Workshop, I felt profoundly inspired by the Hertz community and its shared mission — and I want more people to know about it. John Hertz founded this organization to ensure the nation’s scientific leadership, and that mission feels more urgent than ever.
What unique insights or perspectives do you bring to the board?
Pearse: Throughout my career at places like MIT, Bell Labs and now FESI, I’ve focused on commercializing science, and I’m eager to apply that experience to support our national labs and Hertz Fellows. I want to help fellows turn ideas into impact. And I want to help the foundation attract major science and technology philanthropists, and ultimately become the premier funder and incubator of science and technology talent.
Why is the Hertz Foundation important for the future of science and technology?
Pearse: The Hertz Foundation has always played a vital role in maintaining America’s scientific leadership. Today, we face intense and growing international competition across multiple strategic fields. I believe the foundation is in a position to both support the next generation of scientific leaders and, just as important, to communicate clearly and boldly why that’s important.
What advice would you give to the newest class of Hertz Fellows?
Pearse: I’ve learned a few lessons in my technology career. First, be bold and don’t be afraid of taking risks. Don’t ever feel you are in over your head — trust your capacity to learn quickly, and trust the Hertz community to support you. And most important, make your science consequential. Let’s change the world for the better.
About the Hertz Foundation
The Hertz Foundation is the nation’s preeminent nonprofit organization committed to advancing American scientific and technological leadership. For more than 60 years, it has stood as an unwavering pillar of independent support through the renowned Hertz Fellowship, cultivating a multidisciplinary network of innovators whose work has positively impacted millions of lives. Learn more at hertzfoundation.org.
