Executive Team Making Our Mission Possible
Executive Committee
staff
Program Directors
Jack Smith
Jack Smith is a U.S. Air Force veteran, entrepreneur, and business leader dedicated to advancing veteran opportunities in technology, defense, and government contracting. As the Western Region Vice President, he oversees strategic initiatives across six states. He is also the Founder and CEO of Fortuna, a veteran-owned consulting firm specializing in IT services, contact center solutions, and workforce optimization. A passionate advocate for veterans, Jack is committed to bridging the gap between military service and civilian careers, ensuring those who have served can thrive in the jobs of tomorrow.
Vidhu Shekhar
Vidhu is a seasoned executive in technology and strategy with a focus on public sector digital transformation. Throughout his career, he has successfully worked for government agencies, consulting firms, and private companies, delivering enterprise-wide value to customers.
In addition to his work, Vidhu is involved in the community and is a speaker at local universities, technology & policy forums. He holds advisory board positions at several organizations, including the University of Southern California’s Sacramento Center, University of Washington’s Mobility Innovation Center & Technology Industry Association for California (TechCA). He also serves on a National Academy of Sciences, Engineering & Medicine (NASEM) funded Transportation Cooperative Research Program (TCRP) project panel and a public volunteer with the National Institute of Standards and Technology’s (NIST) Generative AI Public Working Group.
He is currently a Government Strategy Leader in Microsoft’s Worldwide Public Sector Team focused on US State & Local Governments. He is also the author of the book – Generative Artificial Intelligence Use Cases in State & Local Government
Dolores Lowe
Dolores Lowe serves as the Director of Special Programs for the Space Force Association (SFA), where she leads strategic initiatives that connect Guardians, industry, and academia in advancing national spacepower objectives. In this role, she oversees key partnerships, event programming, and innovation forums designed to accelerate the integration of cutting-edge technologies into U.S. Space Force missions.
As Director of Special Programs, Dolores drives SFA’s flagship initiatives that strengthen collaboration across the space enterprise, spearheading events such as the Spacepower Conference, OTTI Industry Engagement Day, and PEO “Speed Dating” sessions, which foster meaningful engagement between Space Force leaders and commercial innovators. She is passionate about bridging the gap between government and industry to ensure the technological capabilities and talent pipelines of the U.S. Space Force remain ready to meet the nation’s most pressing operational needs. Through her leadership, SFA has expanded opportunities for dialogue, mentorship, and partnership that directly support Guardian readiness and mission success.
Guided by the belief that “Guardians Stand Ready; Always Above, Always Ahead,” Dolores is committed to strengthening the bond between the Space Force and its industry partners, ensuring that America’s Guardians remain equipped, connected, and prepared to meet the challenges of the space domain.
Dr. Manjit Pope
Dr. Manjit Pope is a visionary leader at the forefront of space exploration, technology innovation, and international collaboration. As President of SFA International and Chief Strategy Officer for the Space Force Association, she drives global initiatives that shape the future of defense, aerospace, and security. With a background in leading multi-billion-dollar technology enterprises and pioneering advancements in AI, AGI, and space commercialization, Dr. Pope is a recognized authority in the industry. Her passion for innovation, strategic leadership, and global cooperation continues to redefine the landscape of space and defense for future generations.
Brent Page
Driven by a family legacy in space exploration, Brent Page brings his passion for space to his role as Deputy Vice President for the Space Force Association Western Region. As a Space Acquisition professional, he supports the development and maintenance of cutting-edge offensive and defensive counterspace, space situational awareness, and special access capabilities.
Brent is a graduate of Southern University A&M College in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and California State University-Northridge. His passion for space is rooted in family history, with his grandfather having worked for Chrysler Corporation’s Space Division helped assemble the first stage of the Saturn 1B rocket that was used in the early Apollo missions, which set the stage for NASA’s trip to the moon in July 1969. Having numerous family members contributing to the space program at NASA Stennis Space Center and Michoud Assembly Center. It is a part of his DNA.
Elizabeth Chavez
Elizabeth Chavez is a proven Federal Account Executive with a specialized focus on supporting U.S. Space Force missions through innovative technology solutions and strategic contract execution. With a deep understanding of Space Force, Command and PEO structures, and IT/CIO-led initiatives, she has directly contributed to advancing national defense capabilities.
Her expertise spans end-to-end government procurement, BPA and GWAC execution, and collaboration with key stakeholders across FFRDCs, Federal System Integrators, and OEMs. Elizabeth’s ability to navigate complex acquisition environments and deliver mission-critical solutions has made her a trusted partner within the defense ecosystem. She remains passionate about empowering the Space Force with transformative technologies that align with its evolving strategic priorities.
Michael Sullivan
As the volunteer committee lead for the Space Force Association, MSgt Mike Sullivan oversees member engagement initiatives and directs programs that align with the association’s mission to empower the Space Force community. He has spearheaded impactful projects like the Space Force Association Creator League and launched efforts in artificial intelligence, gaming, and veteran support—fostering creativity and readiness across the force. Serving as Command First Sergeant at HQ STARCOM, Mike brings extensive expertise in program development and operational excellence, prioritizing mission success by leading initiatives that boost morale and resilience within the Space Force.
Sophie Skiba
Sophia Skiba is the Director of the Space Professional Society and the Educational Director for SFA AZ. Currently, she is studying Astronomy at ASU and is a novice fossil hunter.
Committee Chairs
Mark Dreiling
Mark Dreiling is a retired USAF Space Operations Office and has served for eight years as the Chief of Staff for Congressman Don Bacon of Nebraska. During his military career, Mark was a certified SBIRS DSP crew commander, Chief of Crew Force Management, and Chief of Operations Training. In addition, he worked with USSTRATCOM, the NGA, and was a Test Director for AFOTEC. He is a graduate of the Naval War College with a Master of Arts with Highest Distinction in Defense and Strategic Studies, earned a Graduate Certificate in Space Systems from UCCS, and he completed his undergraduate education at the University of Nebraska – Lincoln. In addition to his work in Congress, Mark served for several years as a staffer in the Nebraska State Legislature.
