mission:60s featured guest

Chris Gilman - Bridging the Gap Between Reel and Reality

Chris Gilman is a renowned craftsman and innovator whose career bridges Hollywood special effects and real-world aerospace engineering. Beginning with early exposure to high-performance environments and hands-on experience in his father’s aerospace company, he went on to co-found Diligent Dwarves Effects Lab, which evolved into Global Effects Inc., a leader in creating hyper-realistic props and specialty wardrobe for major productions like From the Earth to the Moon and Star Trek. His work earned him a Technical Achievement Award from the Academy for developing a “Cool Suit” system. Transitioning into aerospace, Gilman collaborated with NASA and private space companies, contributing to spacesuit design improvements, commercial suit development, and programs including SpaceX, Orion, and Artemis. Outside of his professional achievements, he is deeply engaged in historical and hands-on pursuits, reflecting a lifelong passion for blending craftsmanship, exploration, and innovation.