The Aerospace Industries Association (AIA) has announced the appointment of Jessica Pedersen as the Senior Director of the American Rocketry Challenge. This initiative, which aims to inspire youth towards careers in STEM fields, will benefit from Pedersen's experience and leadership.

AIA President and CEO Eric Fanning expressed confidence in Pedersen's ability to enhance the program: “For over two decades, the American Rocketry Challenge has inspired young minds towards STEM careers and empowered them to tackle new challenges. With Jessica stepping in as our new Senior Director, we will explore new ways to engage youth in STEM and enhance our program’s impact. Jessica’s leadership will help us continue to nurture the next generation of innovators and problem-solvers, ensuring a brighter future for our industry and beyond.”

Before joining AIA, Pedersen served as Senior Strategy Manager at General Dynamics Mission Systems. Her role involved leading strategic partnerships for the Space, Cyber, and Intelligence division. She also managed annual strategic plans focusing on encryption technologies, space avionics, and tactical cross-domain solutions.

Pedersen holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Industrial and Operations Engineering from the University of Michigan along with an MBA from the University of Maryland.