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Speakers

We are proud to introduce the distinguished speakers of the Mississippi Aerospace and Defense Symposium 2026— leaders whose expertise, innovation, and vision are shaping the future of aerospace, defense, and space technology. These individuals represent the highest levels of excellence across government, industry, academia, and entrepreneurship. Their collective insights will guide critical conversations, spark collaboration, and accelerate progress—not just for Mississippi, but for the nation and beyond. We are deeply grateful for their time, their leadership, and their commitment to advancing our shared mission. Please join us in celebrating this outstanding group of speakers whose contributions make this event possible, meaningful, and impactful.

Keynote Speakers

The Honorable Tate Reeves - 65th Governor of Mississippi

Dr. Denise Jones Gregory, President, Jackson State University (JSU)

Davis Pace, President and CEO, Mississippi Enterprise for Technology (MSET)

MADS 2026 Panelists

Tasha Bibb, Senior Program Manager, Mississippi State University (MSU)
Dr. Almesha Campbell, Vice President for Research, Jackson State University (JSU)
Bill Cork, Executive Director, Mississippi Development Authority (MDA)
Stephen Fitts, Vice President of Supply Chain Management, Ingalls Shipbuilding
Michael Grasso, Co-Founder and CEO, The Lumber Manufactory, Inc.
Dr. John C. Higginbotham, Vice Chancellor of Research and Economic Development, Ole Miss
Mark Kaufman, Co-Founder, Chairman, Chief Strategy Officer, X-Bow Systems Inc.
Rakhee Khambhati, Director of Government Partnerships, Reflect Orbital
Dr. Kelly Lucas, Vice President for Research, The University of Southern Mississippi (USM)
Bret Perry, General Manager, Anduril Solid Rocket Motor Systems
Jace Ponder, Director, Governor's Office of Military Affairs, Mississippi Development Authority (MDA)
Michelle Richardson, Government Affairs, Elevate
PJ Waldrop, Deputy Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer, MDA
Ryan Walker, External Relations Manager, Google
Dr. Scott Willard, Interim Vice President for Research and Economic Development, Mississippi State University (MSU)