Dr. Hicks to bring advanced computing and AI investment experience to Loft’s vision for simple, fast and reliable access to space
SAN FRANCISCO, USA, October 10, 2025 – Loft Orbital, a global space infrastructure company, today announced that former Deputy Secretary of Defense Dr. Kathleen Hicks has been appointed to Loft Orbital’s Board of Directors. With more than 30 years of experience integrating advanced technologies into defense and intelligence operations, Dr. Hicks will bring unique experience to advise Loft Orbital (Loft) in the evolution of the company’s vision to simplify access to space.
Dr. Hicks served as the 35th Deputy Secretary of Defense (DSD), overseeing day-to-day global operations and introducing technologies to support the U.S. military. Her team launched technology accelerators to triple defense investment in artificial intelligence and emerging technologies, and expanded collaboration with the commercial space community. She previously served in a number of other senior government roles under both Republican and Democratic administrations, as well as on the Board of Directors for the Aerospace Corporation.
As an international company, Loft works with government and commercial customers around the world through Loft Federal, Loft France, and its Orbitworks joint venture in the UAE. Dr. Hicks brings a unique perspective on geopolitical and international affairs that will guide Loft toward building more robust mission services to the U.S. government and allied nations. Her high-level government experience will guide the company’s efforts to build trusted partners across these regions.
“We are honored to have Dr. Kathleen Hicks join our board and lend her unique experience at the highest levels of government to Loft,” said Pierre-Damien Vaujour, CEO of Loft. “We are eager to learn from her leadership, decision-making, and strategic vision as we expand our role as a trusted partner to U.S. and allied governments.”
Dr. Hicks is also a non-resident Senior Fellow at both Harvard University’s Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs and The Johns Hopkins University’s Kissinger Center for Global Affairs. She has served as Senior Vice President and Director of the International Security Program for the Center of Strategic and International Studies.
