Brad Hartwig

Brad Hartwig has a diverse work experience that spans various industries and roles. Brad is currently serving as the CEO at Arbor since January 2022. Before that, they worked at Kitty Hawk from December 2019 to August 2020, where they served as a Flight Test Engineer and Test Pilot. In this role, they led flight test campaigns, analyzed vehicle dynamics, managed test sites, and defined critical metrics for vehicle reliability.

Prior to Kitty Hawk, Brad Hartwig was a Manufacturing Engineer at SpaceX from July 2016 to September 2018. Brad played a crucial role in developing the Draco rocket engine for Crew Dragon's propulsion system. Brad led the manufacturing, testing, and integration of the Crew Draco engine.

Brad also worked at USC Rocket Propulsion Laboratory as the Chief Propulsion Engineer from March 2014 to May 2016, and at McCauley Propeller as a Blackworks Engineering Intern from May 2015 to August 2015.

Their earlier experiences include serving as the Project Lead in the Sikorsky Human Powered Helicopter Competition at Sikorsky from July 2011 to August 2012. Brad also swam on the National Team for North Bay Aquatics, representing USA Swimming from September 2002 to May 2012.

Brad Hartwig has a Bachelor of Science degree in Aerospace, Aeronautical, and Astronautical Engineering from the University of Southern California. Brad also holds a Master of Science degree in Energy, Civil Infrastructure, and Climate Engineering from the University of California, Berkeley.

In addition to their academic qualifications, Brad has obtained various certifications. These include Decision Making and Problem Solving, Developing and Managing Volunteers, Effective Communication, Leadership and Influence, and the National Response Framework, all from FEMA. Brad has also obtained certifications in Risks in Mountain Rescue Operations, Situational Awareness in Search and Rescue, and Helicopters in Search and Rescue from the Mountain Rescue Association.

Other certifications Brad holds include Incident Command System, National Incident Management System, Paragliding Pilot, ASA Bareboat Cruising, ASA Basic Keelboat, ASA Basic Coastal Cruising, Avalanche Safety and Rescue 1, Open Water Diver, Emergency Medical Technician, Wilderness Emergency Medical Technician, Remote Pilot License, and Adult First Aid/CPR/AED, from various institutions such as the United States Hang Gliding & Paragliding Association, Inc., American Sailing Association, National Ski Patrol, SSI Scuba Schools International, National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians, NOLS Wilderness Medicine, Federal Aviation Administration, and American Red Cross.