Vulcan Inc. taps new executive director

Vulcan Inc. has named Charles Beames executive director of Stratolaunch, where he will be responsible for creating and executing the strategic plan to realize founder Paul Allen’s vision of revolutionizing space transportation.

“Stratolaunch is the next step in America’s drive for even more viable and flexible commercial space transportation and is positioned to transform orbital access with its innovative air-launch system,” Beames said.

Before joining Vulcan, Beames served was principal director of space and intelligence for the under secretary of Defense for acquisition, technology and logistics.

Beames holds degrees in engineering mechanics and material science from the U.S. Air Force Academy, as well as a master’s degree in mechanical engineering from Johns Hopkins University and a master’s in national security from the National War College.