Bridgit Mendler: From Disney Star to Space Pioneer
By Adeola Egbeleye
Everyone loves seeing their favorite Disney stars grow up. From new blockbuster films to the release of a product that is highly anticipated or continuing the legacy of the show that they are on, change is a good thing. However, Bridgit Mendler has exceeded everyone’s expectations. Mendler’s acting career skyrocketed after the premiere of the hit show Good Luck Charlie, a children’s show airing from 2010 to 2014. Nevertheless, Mendler’s success did not end there, releasing hit songs such as “Ready or Not” and “Hurricane.” Mendler soon pivoted directions, attending both the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard Law School. She later co-founded Northwood Space with business partners Shaurya Luthra and her now husband, Griffin Cleverly in 2023. Bridgit Mendler has proved the sky’s the limit, both literally and figuratively.
Northwood Space is a company dedicated to designing ground infrastructure to accelerate the mass adoption of satellite technology. In their own words, Northwood is a data highway between earth and space. An article from CNBC states, “Northwood is attracting high-profile venture investors, with about $6 million in initial funding raised from investors including Founders Fund, Andreessen Horowitz and Also Capital.” Though the start-up of her company came as a shock to many fans and intrigued media consumers, it’s without a doubt that this has been something Mendler has been passionate about for quite some time. Mendler says in a CNBC interview that she “completely fell in love with space law,” making it her goal to pursue a career in that realm.
Mendler’s team Shaurya Luthra and Griffin Cleverly formerly worked at Lockheed Martin as engineers. Luthra also spent time at Mitre Corporation working in communications. Mitre Corporation is a non-profit organization that aims to advance national security and serve the public interest as an independent advisor. Co-founder Griffin Cleverly additionally spent four years building the ground station network of satellite imagery venture Capella Space. Mendler is currently the chief executive officer of Northwood Space, Shaurya Luthra is the head of the software department, and Griffin Cleverly is the chief technology officer.
It is incredible to see how far one’s dreams take them, especially for Bridgit Mendler and her team. From a Disney star to a space company CEO, Bridgit has shown and proven that anything is possible. By combining her love for space law with the expertise of her talented team, Mendler is leading a company that will shape the future of space infrastructure. Her success proves that no matter where you start, with the right vision and drive, you can reach new heights– both on Earth and beyond.
