Russ Matijevich

Russ Matijevich has extensive work experience in the aerospace and defense industry. Russ is currently the Chief Innovation Officer at Airbus US Space & Defense, Inc., where they co-curates the technical road map and makes investment decisions. Russ also serves as the Chief Growth Officer, responsible for coordinating long-term growth across all lines of business and providing oversight for strategy, business development, government relations, communications, and marketing. Prior to joining Airbus, Russ was the owner and Chief Executive of Matijevich International Consulting LLC, a small business that provides consulting services in various disciplines including space policy, program execution, and joint combat operations.

Before that, they worked as the Chief Engineer at BAE Systems, Inc., focusing on resilient space payloads for national security and commercial space missions. Russ also served as the Principal Systems Engineer & Program Manager at Radiant Solutions, where they provided executive leadership in developing a cutting-edge predictive analytic platform for strategic event forecasting. Russ was the Vice President of Strategic Development at HawkEye 360, where they established business relationships and positioned the company as a leader in commercial space policy.

Earlier in their career, Russ held various roles at companies such as Northrop Grumman Corporation, SAIC, and United States Air Force. Russ retired from the Air Force as a Senior Program Manager, Operator, and Engineer with experience in jet and satellite operations, mission integration, intelligence analysis, and program management. Russ also worked at the Office of the Secretary of Defense as the Deputy Director of Space Policy, where they were an expert on space systems and operations in support of national security objectives.

Russ has a strong background in technical program management, budget execution, and industry collaboration. Russ has worked with leading companies and organizations in the aerospace and defense sector, including Boeing, Lockheed Martin, and NASA. Russ has contributed to advancements in space technologies such as resilient space systems, predictive analytics, and composite mirror design. Overall, Russ Matijevich brings a wealth of experience and expertise to their current role, driving innovation and growth in the aerospace industry.

Russ Matijevich attended Mississippi State University from 1984 to 1988, where they earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Aerospace Engineering. Russ then pursued further education at West Coast University from 1994 to 1997, obtaining a Master of Science degree in Astronautical Engineering. Additionally, Russ Matijevich has obtained several certifications including "D" Cruising Skipper from the US Naval Sailing Association in January 2012, Advanced Open Water SCUBA from PADI in June 1989, Safety at Sea from World Sailing in April 2022, Offshore Emergency Medicine from Wilderness Medical Associates International in March 2018, and Wilderness First Aid from Wilderness Safety Council in May 2016.