We are delighted to announce that John Schumacher, a distinguished leader in aerospace with decades of results across the civil, commercial, and national security sectors, has joined the Hybrid Air Vehicles executive team. He will lead our efforts to expand Airlander sales and production in the United States. Hybrid Air Vehicles is contracted to US DoD in multiple areas for technology demonstration. John’s appointment will build from this base.
John’s expertise brings unmatched insight into the aerospace industry’s most critical challenges and opportunities:
- Key member of leadership team that transformed Aerojet Rocketdyne, America’s premier rocket propulsion manufacturer for DOD hypersonics, strategic/tactical missiles and NASA programs, realising shareholder return of 121% over the 5 years prior to acquisition.
- Led a campaign resulting in $216M of funding to modernise Aerojet Rocketdyne missile propulsion production.
- Created and served as President of Astrium Americas, a new EADS NA subsidiary, providing customers with Astrium’s global space capabilities.
- Leader at NASA for 16 years, including Chief of Staff, guiding NASA’s work on the U.S. Vision for Space Exploration and expanding NASA’s reach globally shaping 400 agreements with international partnering worth over $15B.
- Served for decades as a U.S. Navy Officer, commanding 4 Reserve units and supporting establishment of a Reserve Space cadre.
- Served as President of Aerojet Rocketdyne Foundation for 9 years, grew funds to over $13M while expanding support to communities.
- Currently President of the International Academy of Astronautics.
