Auburn University has named its first director of the university’s space innovation program.

Derek Tournear, a former director of the Space Development Agency in the U.S. Space Force, was hired for the position which will be based out of Washington D.C. He will report to Jonathan Pettus, the executive director of Auburn’s Applied Research Institute in Huntsville.

“We are thrilled to add someone to our team with the pedigree and background of Derek Tournear. It is exciting to have his expertise and knowledge base leading us in this new position.”
Chris Roberts, Auburn University president

Derek Tournear

Tournear was named as the inaugural director of the Space Development Agency when it was established in March 2019.

The SDA is recognized as the Department of Defense’s constructive disruptor for space acquisition, delivering space-based capabilities to the joint warfighter to support terrestrial missions through development, fielding and operation of the Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture.

In the role, Tournear grew the agency from 15 employees to more than 350 in four years. He also grew the budget from $20 million to $4.5 billion while taking the lead within the U.S. Space Force at delivering warfighting capabilities.

“This is a home run hire for Auburn. Derek will play a critical role for Auburn, particularly with our space and defense partners, as the state of Alabama assumes an even more important role in securing our nation.”
Steve Taylor, Auburn University senior vice president for research and economic development

Tournear previously held leadership roles in the industry, most recently as director of space and intelligence research and development at Harris Corporation.

Tournear earned a bachelor’s degree from Purdue University and his doctorate of physics from Stanford University. In 2010 he received an Outstanding Alumnus award from Purdue, and in 2008 was presented the DARPA award for Outstanding Accomplishments in a Systems Technology Area.

“It is an honor and a privilege to join the Auburn Family in this exciting new role. Auburn has a national reputation for being a leading institution for research and instruction in the space and defense fields, and I am humbled to be a part of it.”
Derek Tournear

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