Sierra Space has appointed Jeff Schrader, former executive at Lockheed Martin, as chief strategy officer. The Louisville, Colorado-headquartered company said Monday that Schrader will spearhead initiatives, including corporate development and mergers and acquisitions, to support Sierra’s growth and expansion.
“As we accelerate the business and scale for the future, Jeff will help us create long-term value, strengthen alignment across the enterprise and position Sierra Space to move faster and with greater impact,” Dan Jablonsky, CEO of Sierra Space and a two-time Wash100 winner, stated.
Schrader also confirmed his new role in a LinkedIn post on Monday.
“Joining such a visionary team at this inflection point in the aerospace industry is an incredible opportunity,” he wrote. “Sierra Space is at the forefront of redefining how to support our customers in space, and I am eager to contribute to the missions we are lucky enough to support!”
Who Is Jeff Schrader?
Schrader is a seasoned executive with over 25 years of experience across the aerospace and defense sector. At Lockheed Martin, he served as vice president of strategy and business development, supporting a business area exceeding $13 billion.
Before Lockheed Martin, Schrader was president of SEAKR Engineering and Blue Canyon Technologies. His career also includes leadership roles at RTX and General Dynamics.
Prior to entering the private sector, Schrader served as a U.S. Air Force civil servant for over a decade. He started as a financial analyst in 2003, working his way through the ranks and becoming the chief financial officer of the Rapid Capabilities Office in 2010.
How Is Sierra Space Expanding Its Capabilities?
Schrader’s appointment comes as Sierra Space advances expansion efforts across defense and commercial space markets. The company recently secured a $550 million investment, raising its valuation to $8 billion. The funding will support the company’s production capacity and advance national security initiatives.
In December, Sierra Space launched its defense business to develop satellites and spacecraft systems, including Sierra Space Eclipse for on-orbit servicing missions, Sierra Space Ghost space delivery system and Sierra Space Spectre for precision rendezvous proximity operations.
Additionally, the company plans to construct a new “Victory Works” manufacturing facility in Centennial, Colorado, to develop advanced satellite technologies, further positioning the company to scale operations and pursue future mission opportunities.
