Debra Facktor

Debra Facktor has a diverse range of work experience in the aerospace industry. Debra is currently the Head of U.S. Space Systems at Airbus U.S. Space & Defense, Inc., where they focus on National Security Space and Space Exploration. Prior to this role, they held various positions at Ball Aerospace, including Vice President and General Manager of Strategic Operations and Vice President and General Manager of the Commercial Aerospace Business Unit.

Debra also has experience in academia, serving as an Industry Professor at Stevens Institute of Technology and as the Director of Strategic Programs at the Systems Engineering Research Center (SERC). Additionally, they have been involved in several entrepreneurial ventures, serving as President and Owner of DFL Space LLC and President and 1 of 5 Owners of AirLaunch LLC.

Earlier in their career, Debra worked at Kistler Aerospace Corporation in roles such as Vice President of Business Development & Strategic Planning, Director of Marketing, and Manager of Payload Systems. Debra also worked at ANSER, where they held positions including Chief of Moscow Operations, Senior Engineer & Lead Analyst for Space Launch & Human Spaceflight, and Project Leader and Analyst for Government and Commercial Launch Systems & Space Policy.

Overall, Debra Facktor has a wealth of experience in various leadership and management roles within the aerospace industry, as well as a strong background in academia and entrepreneurship.

Debra Facktor completed their education in the field of Aerospace Engineering. Debra obtained a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree from the University of Michigan in 1988, followed by a Master of Science (MS) degree from the same university in 1989. In addition to their engineering studies, they also pursued a Graduate Certificate in Space Policy & Law from the International Space University in 1989.