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Aerospace and Defense Alliance of Mississippi Announces Board Leadership Updates

Jackson, MS – May 28, 2026 – The Aerospace and Defense Alliance of Mississippi (ADAM), the statewide industry-led organization dedicated to advancing Mississippi’s aerospace, defense, and national security sectors, today announced key changes to its Board of Directors and officer positions.

These transitions recognize the dedicated service of founding leaders while welcoming new expertise to guide ADAM’s mission of fostering collaboration, advocacy, workforce development, and innovation across the state’s aerospace and defense industrial base.

Board and Leadership Changes:

  • Dr. Neil Thurgood, Senior Vice President at Anduril and an inaugural board member, is departing the board. ADAM extends its sincere gratitude to Lt. Gen. (ret.) Thurgood for his foundational leadership and valuable contributions during the organization’s critical early years.
  • Jennifer Goodrum, Director of State and Local Government Operations at Rocket Lab, will join the board, replacing Neil Thurgood and bringing significant experience in government relations and space systems.
  • Davis Pace, President & CEO of Mississippi Enterprise for Technology (MSET) and inaugural Chairman of the ADAM Board, has completed his two terms as Chairman. Pace will continue serving on the board in the role of Secretary/Treasurer.
  • Dr. Gary Butler, Founder & CEO of Camgian and an inaugural board member, who previously served as Vice Chairman, has been elected as the new Chairman of the Board.
  • Tom Sri, Director of State Government Relations at Raytheon (RTX), who joined the board earlier this year, will step into the role of Vice Chairman, backfilling the position vacated by Gary Butler.

Gary Butler

Founder & CEO, Camgian

Jennifer Goodrum

Director of State and Local Government Operations, Rocket Lab

“I’m honored to serve as Chairman of the Aerospace and Defense Alliance of Mississippi at a time when the state’s role in national security and advanced technology has never been more important. ADAM was founded on the idea that collaboration across industry, government, and academia can unlock Mississippi’s full potential in aerospace and defense. I look forward to building on that foundation with our outstanding board and partners to drive innovation, grow the workforce, and strengthen Mississippi’s contribution to the nation’s security.” by Dr. Gary Butler, incoming Chairman of the ADAM Board.

Davis Pace added: “It has been an honor to serve as the inaugural Chairman and help launch ADAM alongside such dedicated industry leaders. I am grateful for the opportunity to continue contributing as Secretary/Treasurer and remain committed to advancing our shared mission for Mississippi’s aerospace and defense community.”

Sara Doss, Executive Director of ADAM, stated:
“These changes bring continuity and fresh perspectives to our leadership at an exciting time for the industry in Mississippi. With Dr. Gary Butler stepping into the Chairman role, ADAM is well-positioned to build on its strong foundation and accelerate its impact across the state. We are deeply appreciative of the service of our outgoing and transitioning leaders and enthusiastic about the expertise Jennifer Goodrum will bring. The board will continue guiding strategic initiatives, including business development, member advocacy, and events such as the Mississippi Aerospace and Defense Symposium.”

The updated Board of Directors and officers will continue to drive ADAM’s efforts in connecting industry, government, and academia to promote growth and innovation across the state.

For more information about ADAM, its board, membership, or initiatives, visit www.msaerodefense.org or contact Sara Doss at sara@mset.org.

About the Aerospace and Defense Alliance of Mississippi (ADAM)

The Aerospace and Defense Alliance of Mississippi is an industry trade association serving as the convening entity for Mississippi’s aerospace, aeronautics, and defense industries. ADAM fosters industry collaboration and strategic planning, provides advocacy, and supports marketing and promotional efforts for the state’s aerospace and defense assets. For more information, visit www.msaerodefense.org.

Media Contact:

Sara Doss Executive Director Aerospace and Defense Alliance of Mississippi Email: sara@mset.org