NAVAIR Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

NAVAIR has 7 executives leading key functions including strategy, technology, and human capital management.

Dedicated to advancing naval aviation, NAVAIR provides critical technological and material support for Navy and Marine Corps aircraft, ensuring operational superiority and readiness across global theaters.

Leadership Roles at NAVAIR

  • Chief of Staff - Angelina Nance
  • Manager, Business & Chief of Staff - Gail Ridgell
  • Chief Technology Officer, Navair Peo Apeo For St & Tactical Aircraft (T) & Portfolio Manager - Larry Branthoover
  • Group Human Capital Management Chief of Staff - Dana Burke
  • 22 Osprey Joint Program Office, Naval Air Systems Command Chief of Staff V - Stephanie Gleason
  • Navair Reserve Program Chief of Staff - Jeffrey Pizanti
  • Chief of Staff, NAWCAD WOLF - Cynthia Morgan
  • Angelina Nance - Chief of Staff

    Angelina Nance, the Chief of Staff at NAVAIR, directs strategic initiatives and operational alignment across the command. Overseeing critical administrative functions, Nance ensures seamless execution of leadership directives and facilitates interdepartmental communication. This role involves managing high-level projects and advising senior leadership on policy implementation and organizational effectiveness. By optimizing resource allocation and streamlining workflows, Angelina Nance directly supports NAVAIR's mission of providing advanced technology and material support for naval aviation. The focus remains on enhancing the readiness and capability of Navy and Marine Corps aircraft through efficient command operations.

    Gail Ridgell - Manager, Business & Chief of Staff

    Gail Ridgell, the Manager, Business & Chief of Staff at NAVAIR, drives business operations and strategic planning. Ridgell oversees critical business functions, ensuring alignment with NAVAIR's overarching goals of supporting naval aviation systems. This leadership position involves managing complex projects, fostering key stakeholder relationships, and optimizing resource utilization to enhance operational efficiency. By integrating business acumen with strategic oversight, Gail Ridgell ensures that NAVAIR's technological advancements and material support systems are effectively delivered. The role is pivotal in translating strategic objectives into actionable business plans, thereby reinforcing the command's commitment to Navy and Marine Corps aircraft readiness.

    Larry Branthoover - Chief Technology Officer, Navair Peo Apeo For St & Tactical Aircraft (T) & Portfolio Manager

    Larry Branthoover, the Chief Technology Officer, Navair Peo Apeo For St & Tactical Aircraft (T) & Portfolio Manager at NAVAIR, architects technological innovation and manages critical aircraft portfolios. Branthoover directs the development and integration of advanced technologies for strategic and tactical aircraft, ensuring superior performance and operational capability. This multifaceted role involves overseeing research, development, and sustainment strategies for naval aviation systems. By managing technology roadmaps and portfolio investments, Larry Branthoover ensures that NAVAIR remains at the forefront of aviation technology, directly supporting the United States Navy and Marine Corps. The focus is on delivering cutting-edge solutions that enhance aircraft effectiveness and readiness across all operational environments.

    Dana Burke - Group Human Capital Management Chief of Staff

    Dana Burke, the Group Human Capital Management Chief of Staff at NAVAIR, leads strategic human capital initiatives and organizational development. Burke oversees the implementation of human resources policies and programs designed to attract, develop, and retain top talent within the naval aviation sector. This critical role involves ensuring that NAVAIR's workforce possesses the necessary skills and expertise to support advanced technology and material systems. By driving initiatives in talent management, workforce planning, and employee engagement, Dana Burke enhances the command's operational capacity. The objective is to build a high-performing team that sustains the readiness and technological superiority of Navy and Marine Corps aircraft.

    Stephanie Gleason - 22 Osprey Joint Program Office, Naval Air Systems Command Chief of Staff V

    Stephanie Gleason, the 22 Osprey Joint Program Office, Naval Air Systems Command Chief of Staff V at NAVAIR, directs strategic operations for the V-22 Osprey program. Gleason oversees critical aspects of the joint program office, ensuring seamless coordination and execution of initiatives related to the V-22 aircraft. This leadership position involves managing complex project timelines, facilitating communication between program stakeholders, and driving operational efficiencies. By focusing on the sustainment and advancement of the V-22 platform, Stephanie Gleason directly contributes to the operational readiness of Navy and Marine Corps aviation units. The role is essential in maintaining the program's strategic objectives and technological edge.

    Jeffrey Pizanti - Navair Reserve Program Chief of Staff

    Jeffrey Pizanti, the Navair Reserve Program Chief of Staff at NAVAIR, manages strategic operations and support for the Naval Air Systems Command Reserve Program. Pizanti oversees the integration of reserve component capabilities with active duty aviation support functions, ensuring comprehensive readiness. This role involves developing and implementing policies that enhance the effectiveness of reserve personnel and resources in supporting naval aviation missions. By optimizing the utilization of reserve assets, Jeffrey Pizanti strengthens NAVAIR's capacity to provide advanced technology and material support. The focus remains on ensuring that the reserve program effectively contributes to the overall mission of maintaining Navy and Marine Corps aircraft operational superiority.

    Cynthia Morgan - Chief of Staff, NAWCAD WOLF

    Cynthia Morgan, the Chief of Staff, NAWCAD WOLF at NAVAIR, directs strategic operations and administrative functions for the Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division (NAWCAD) Weapons and Energetics Laboratory (WOLF). Morgan oversees critical initiatives aimed at advancing weapons and energetics technology for naval aviation. This leadership role involves managing program execution, fostering collaboration across research and development teams, and ensuring alignment with NAVAIR's broader mission objectives. By driving innovation in weapons systems, Cynthia Morgan enhances the combat effectiveness of Navy and Marine Corps aircraft. The focus is on delivering state-of-the-art solutions that bolster national security and maintain technological dominance in naval warfare.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding NAVAIR Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads NAVAIR?
    NAVAIR is led by Angelina Nance (Chief of Staff), along with executives such as Gail Ridgell (Manager, Business & Chief of Staff) and Larry Branthoover (Chief Technology Officer, Navair Peo Apeo For St & Tactical Aircraft (T) & Portfolio Manager).
    Who is part of NAVAIR’s executive team?
    The executive team of NAVAIR includes leaders such as Angelina Nance (Chief of Staff), Gail Ridgell (Manager, Business & Chief of Staff), Larry Branthoover (Chief Technology Officer, Navair Peo Apeo For St & Tactical Aircraft (T) & Portfolio Manager) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does NAVAIR have?
    NAVAIR has 7 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in NAVAIR’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of NAVAIR includes roles such as Chief of Staff, Manager, Business & Chief of Staff, Chief Technology Officer, Navair Peo Apeo For St & Tactical Aircraft (T) & Portfolio Manager, Group Human Capital Management Chief of Staff, 22 Osprey Joint Program Office, Naval Air Systems Command Chief of Staff V.