The Aerospace Industries Association announced on March 18 that Russ Blauw has joined the organization as Vice President of Membership and Strategic Direction, bringing decades of leadership experience to the association.
Blauw’s appointment is part of AIA’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its executive team in order to better serve members and advance policies supporting a strong, innovative, and globally competitive aerospace and defense industry. The association operates in the aerospace and defense sector, supporting manufacturers and suppliers, according to the official website.
Eric Fanning, President and CEO of AIA, said, “The Aerospace Industries Association’s strength comes from our members, and Russ brings the kind of experience and perspective that will make an immediate impact for them. His operational background, strategic leadership, and deep understanding of the aerospace and defense industrial base will be invaluable as we drive growth, advocate on the issues that matter most, and continue to strengthen AIA’s role as the voice of the industry.”
Blauw joins AIA after nearly three decades in the U.S. Marine Corps with multiple command tours, deployments, high-level staff roles at the Pentagon, five years as a civilian member of the Senior Executive Service with the Marine Corps, and recent consulting work on defense acquisition and sustainment. He has extensive experience supporting Marine Aviation and Naval Aviation Enterprise operations.
The Aerospace Industries Association supports diversity and inclusion initiatives to improve representation in the industry; it also pushes for policies aimed at bolstering national security while encouraging innovation and economic expansion according to its official website. The association shapes U.S. policy on matters including national security, aviation safety, space innovation, workforce development; promotes international business ethics through leading roles such as chairing the International Forum on Business Ethical Conduct since 2010; offers advocacy efforts; networking via councils/committees; access to over 1,400 industry standards according to its official website.
Blauw holds degrees from Florida State University (bachelor's), U.S. Naval War College (master's), and Dwight D. Eisenhower School for National Security and Resource Strategy (master's).
