The Board of Directors of Mojave Air and Space Port is pleased to announce that David G. Smith, DBA, has been hired as the District’s new Chief Executive Officer and General Manager. Dr. Smith has been a leader in the aerospace industry for many years, most recently as Director, Production and Flight Test Facility, at Plant 42 where he oversaw all low density, high impact government integration, and set conditions for security, support, and operations for programs delivering warfighting weapons systems. Dr. Smith’s 40 years of experience in military and civilian aviation, and his significant leadership experiences in the Air Force, Army, and at Plant 42 are a perfect fit for the District and the operations of its tenants.
In addition to his work experience, Dr. Smith has a Doctorate in Business Administration from Northcentral University, a Masters in Aeronautical Science from Embry Riddle Aeronautical University, and is a graduate of the National Test Pilot School, the Defense Acquisition University, and the Air War College. Dr. Smith is also a private pilot.
Dr. Smith serves as an Associate Professor at Embry Riddle Aeronautical and California State Universities and is a Special Assistant to the Commanding General, Air Component, for the California Guard. His associations include Air Force Association (AFA), Chapter President/Director; Flight Test Historical Foundation, Director; and Delta Mu Delta Honor Society.
The Board and staff are excited to welcome Dr. Smith to the District and look forward to drawing on his years of experience and leadership to continue to make Mojave Air and Space Port the leading civilian test flight center in the world.