Speakers Loft Fest 2026

Friday, April 24, 2026 in Dübendorf

Fabi Riesen: Founder and CEO of Loft Dynamics

Fabi is the creator of the first and only VR pilot training devices with regulatory approval. Before founding Loft Dynamics (formerly VRM Switzerland) in 2016, he spent over 20 years as a technical leader at Cisco Systems, earning the company’s prestigious Pioneer Award for his innovations.

With a background in electrical engineering and a passion for aviation, Fabi built his first VR motion simulator in 2014, combining virtual reality with motion platforms to enhance pilot training. This led to the development of Loft Dynamics’ EASA-qualified VR FTD Level 3 simulator, now used by leading organizations worldwide, including the FAA, Airbus Helicopters, and Air Zermatt.

Fabi holds degrees in Electrical and Software Engineering and an Executive MBA. A licensed fixed-wing pilot, he is currently obtaining his helicopter license. In his free time, he enjoys exploring the Swiss Alps and has climbed all 48 summits exceeding 4000 meters.

Rob Spence: Moderator & Entertainer

Rob Spence is an internationally recognized comedian and entertainer with 40 years of experience performing in four languages across 35 countries. Known for his quirky humor and infectious Aussie charm, Rob has captivated audiences at top festivals, TV shows, and corporate events worldwide. His skills extend beyond comedy, with a focus on using humor to boost creativity and reduce stress in the workplace.

With his dynamic presence and proven ability to engage diverse audiences, Rob is the ideal host to guide Loft Dynamics’ guests through the day, ensuring an unforgettable experience filled with laughter and connection.

Tobias Zumsteig: Mountain Flyers, Owner & CEO

Tobias Zumsteg has been the new owner and CEO of Mountain Flyers 80 Ltd since April 2025.

Mountain Flyers 80 Ltd. was founded in 1980 by Bernese REGA pilot Ueli Soltermann. The company specializes in basic and advanced helicopter pilot training across all license levels, as well as in scenic and transport flights. The team consists of 32 permanent and freelance staff based in Bern-Belp and Grenchen. The fleet includes 14 helicopters and two of the world’s first EASA-certified VR simulators by Loft Dynamics (R22/AS350B3e) for ground training.

Tobias Zumsteg has been active in aviation since his youth.  At 16, he obtained his parachuting license and shortly thereafter became a member of the Swiss national formation skydiving team. As a professional skydiver, he competed internationally for both the national team and the Swiss Army (CISM Swiss Skydive). In addition, he managed the operations of Skydive Grenchen for three years alongside his professional career. In 2007, he earned his paragliding license, in 2012 he flew with Mountainflyers for the first time in a Robinson R22, and in 2016 he obtained his private pilot license, followed by a commercial pilot license in 2020 and flight instructor license in 2021. Tobias Zumsteg holds a degree in business administration and worked for 20 years at Zurich private bank Julius Baer, 15 of those in various leadership roles.

Michael Tchao: Apple, VP Product Marketing

Michael Tchao has served over 25 years at Apple in a wide range of positions in Marketing and Engineering, including 10 years as VP of iPad Product Marketing, where he helped develop Apple’s partnerships with airlines and the aviation industry.

He now heads up outreach for the Pro Workflow Team in Apple’s Hardware Engineering team, researching insights from Apple’s most demanding customers and developers to help inform future products.

Michael holds a Product Design Engineering degree from Stanford University.

Ton Stam: E2M Technologies B.V., Sales Director

Ton Stam has been working in the field of electric motion and control loading systems since the early zero’s. In 2012 he joined E2M Technologies as a Sales Manager and in 2017 he was appointed Sales Director, responsible for the worldwide sales of E2M products and solutions.

With a background in mechanical engineering and having 20+ years of experience in flight simulation, he understands both the technology as well as the customers, the end-users and the market.

Jørn Larsen: Founder & CEO, Trifork

Jørn Larsen is a Danish technology entrepreneur and the CEO and co-founder of Trifork, (1996) an international listed IT company specializing in advanced software engineering, products and digital transformation.

Under his leadership, the company has expanded across Europe and North America, serving industries such as healthcare, fintech, Aviation, public sector, and manufacturing.

He is known for promoting agile methodologies, open-source technologies, and scalable digital platforms, AI and robotics.

His leadership approach emphasizes decentralized decision-making and empowering strong local management teams with an entrepreneurial mindset 

In addition to his executive role, Larsen is active as a board member and investor in several technology ventures.

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