AeroVironment has appointed Milancy Harris as vice president and chief security officer to lead the company’s enterprise security strategy.
Harris joined AeroVironment after serving in senior intelligence and security leadership roles at the Department of War, according to a press release published Friday. She most recently served as acting under secretary of defense for intelligence and security, following her tenure as the defense I&S deputy. Earlier at the Pentagon, she directed policymaking for irregular warfare and counterterrorism as a deputy assistant secretary of defense.
In her new role, she will oversee the protection of personnel, technologies and programs supporting the company’s national security mission set.
What Experience Does Harris Bring to AeroVironment’s Security Mission?
Harris began her federal career as an intelligence analyst at the Defense Intelligence Agency, followed by senior positions at the National Counterterrorism Center, Office of the Director of National Intelligence and the National Security Council. Her background also includes private-sector experience supporting governance and operational design for Meta’s Oversight Board as its first chief of staff.
“Her leadership will ensure AV operates with the highest standards of trust and resilience while empowering our teams to innovate boldly and deliver critical capabilities for those we serve,” said Wahid Nawabi, AeroVironment chairman, president and CEO.
Commenting about her new role, Harris said she was honored to join a team that delivers critical capabilities to warfighters and government partners. “Protecting AV’s people, programs, and technologies is essential to that mission, and I look forward to building a security organization that enables the company to grow, innovate, and serve with excellence,” the new CSO added.
