Ms. Catherine Steele retired in 2019 as the Senior Vice President, National Systems Group at The Aerospace Corporation in Chantilly, VA where she managed Aerospace resources supporting the national security space and intelligence community in the acquisition, launch, and orbital operation of advanced technology space systems and their communications and ground data stations. She led and was responsible for Aerospace efforts with the National Reconnaissance Office, Office of the Director of National Intelligence, National Geospatial Agency, and other intelligence agencies.
After a dedicated 43-year career at the national level, she currently serves on several local community boards including the Pikes Peak or Bust Foundation, the Exigo Corporation, the Kissing Camels Park Owners Association and the Kissing Camels Women's Club. Past board service includes the University of Maryland School of Aerospace Engineering Board of Visitors, the Peterson Air and Space Museum and the Federation of Galaxy Explorers Board of Directors. She also served on the Department of Commerce Federal Advisory Committee on Commercial Remote Sensing.
Ms. Steele received her Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering/system science and Master of Science degree in engineering control systems from the University of California, Los Angeles. She received the National Reconnaissance Office Director’s Team Award in 2001, the National Security Space Team award in 2004, and was honored with the 2013 Women in Aerospace Leadership Award. She also holds a Ham Radio technician-level license with the American Radio Relay League.