
For Michael D. Hopkins, the path to becoming an inventor, author, and CEO developed gradually through years of hands-on operational work and exposure to different travel environments. His early experiences abroad helped him realize that American airports could better support passengers with dedicated rest spaces. That idea stayed with him and eventually grew into the Aeropod concept, which would later form the foundation for Napstar, a company focused on improving the airport rest experience across the United States.
Michael’s early life unfolded in Europe, where he attended Zweibrücken Air Force High School in Germany and graduated in 1985. Growing up overseas gave him a firsthand look at different cultures, airport layouts, and transportation systems. These environments offered him an understanding of how thoughtful design can make travel easier. After returning to the United States, he continued his education at the University of Missouri in St. Louis, earning his Bachelor of Science degree in 1990.
In 1989, Michael began his professional career with United Parcel Service. Working in St. Louis and later transferring to Denver, Colorado, he served as a Hub Operations Supervisor. His responsibilities included coordinating sales pickup routes, organizing operational start times, and managing daily workflow for large teams. Through consistent effort and attention to process, he helped reduce service failures by 40 percent. He later worked as an Outbound Primary Sort Supervisor, guiding employees through the complex sorting and routing of high-volume shipments. These roles strengthened his skills in logistics, safety practices, and team leadership. His performance was recognized with Safety and Service Awards in 1991, 1993, 1994, 1997, and 1998.
Michael’s career transitioned into entrepreneurship in January 2005 when he founded Napstar, LLC in Denver. As owner and manager, he directed research projects, built marketing strategies, and oversaw business accounts. It was during this period that he fully developed the Aeropod concept, inspired by the airport rest facilities he had seen while living in Europe. Noting that U.S. airports lacked similar accommodations, he designed a practical and private rest solution. He later wrote The Denver Aeropod, sharing the background and reasoning behind the invention.
In August 2017, Michael broadened his professional experience by joining Risc Management Security Investigator Company and Community Security Company LLC. As Operations Manager, he conducted risk assessments, provided executive protective services, and planned secure environments. He also worked in HR administration, trained security teams at mental health clinics, and supported certification processes for security guards in the City and County of Denver.
His career came full circle in December 2019 when he returned to UPS as an Operations Manager in Denver. There, he supervised internal hub inbound operations and contributed to feeder department support. His long-term dedication and leadership earned him awards from the Democratic National Convention in 2008 and the President’s Club Awards in 2002, 2003, and 2005.
As Napstar entered its next stage of development, Michael partnered with designer and developer Jono Isbell, CEO of Hollow(arch). Their proposal, dated October 7, 2025, described an updated Napstar prototype constructed with lightweight materials, modular components, CNC-routed elements, metal framing, and refined finishes. The design focuses on flat shipping, quick assembly, and simplified maintenance.
Outside of his work life, Michael Hopkins from Denver has been active in community support initiatives, primarily through his involvement with mental health clinic training programs. He maintains an interest in health and fitness, which helps him stay grounded and focused. Today, he continues to live in Denver, Colorado, committed to advancing his projects and supporting the community around him.
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