NAVAIR Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

NAVAIR has 6 executives leading key functions including technology, operations, and human capital.

Driven by advanced technology and material support, NAVAIR provides critical systems for naval aviation, ensuring the readiness of Navy and Marine Corps aircraft.

Leadership Roles at NAVAIR

  • Chief Technology Officer - Theresa Shafer
  • Chief of Staff - Rebecca Vasbinder-Sullivan
  • Chief of Staff, NAWCAD WOLF - Cynthia Morgan
  • Manager, Business & Chief of Staff - Gail Ridgell
  • Group Human Capital Management Chief of Staff - Dana Burke
  • Navair Reserve Program Chief of Staff - Jeffrey Pizanti
  • Theresa Shafer - Chief Technology Officer

    Theresa Shafer, the Chief Technology Officer at NAVAIR, directs the integration of advanced technologies across naval aviation systems. Overseeing the research and development of cutting-edge solutions, Shafer ensures NAVAIR remains at the forefront of aerospace innovation. This leadership position involves guiding strategic technological roadmaps and fostering collaboration with industry partners to enhance aircraft capabilities and operational effectiveness. By championing new technological paradigms, Theresa Shafer drives the modernization of naval air assets, directly supporting the United States Navy and Marine Corps' mission readiness. The Chief Technology Officer's focus extends to evaluating emerging threats and opportunities, translating them into actionable technology development plans that secure future air superiority. This role is critical in maintaining the technological edge required for global naval operations.
    Theresa Shafer

    Rebecca Vasbinder-Sullivan - Chief of Staff

    Rebecca Vasbinder-Sullivan, the Chief of Staff at NAVAIR, manages the strategic operational flow and administrative functions supporting the command's leadership. This role involves coordinating key initiatives and ensuring efficient execution of directives across various departments. Vasbinder-Sullivan facilitates communication and alignment between different branches of NAVAIR, optimizing resource allocation and operational planning. The Chief of Staff's responsibilities include overseeing critical projects and advising senior leadership on matters of organizational efficiency and strategic implementation. By streamlining internal processes, Rebecca Vasbinder-Sullivan enhances the command's ability to deliver advanced technology and material support for naval aviation. This position is vital for maintaining the operational tempo and effectiveness of NAVAIR's support for Navy and Marine Corps aircraft.

    Cynthia Morgan - Chief of Staff, NAWCAD WOLF

    Cynthia Morgan, the Chief of Staff, NAWCAD WOLF at NAVAIR, spearheads the strategic direction and operational management for the Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division (NAWCAD) Weapons Division. This leadership role focuses on aligning WOLF's technological advancements and support services with broader naval aviation requirements. Morgan directs initiatives aimed at enhancing the capabilities of Navy and Marine Corps aircraft through innovative solutions and robust material support. The Chief of Staff, NAWCAD WOLF's responsibilities include fostering a culture of excellence and driving performance improvements within the division. By ensuring seamless integration of WOLF's efforts, Cynthia Morgan contributes significantly to NAVAIR's overarching mission of providing advanced systems for naval aviation. This position is crucial for maintaining the technological superiority and operational readiness of naval air assets.

    Gail Ridgell - Manager, Business & Chief of Staff

    Gail Ridgell, the Manager, Business & Chief of Staff at NAVAIR, oversees critical business operations and provides strategic staff support to enhance command effectiveness. This dual role involves managing financial resources, business development initiatives, and ensuring the efficient functioning of key administrative processes. Ridgell's responsibilities extend to aligning business strategies with NAVAIR's mission of delivering advanced technology and material support for naval aviation. The Manager, Business & Chief of Staff's focus includes optimizing resource utilization and driving operational efficiencies across the organization. By integrating business acumen with staff leadership, Gail Ridgell strengthens NAVAIR's capacity to support Navy and Marine Corps aircraft. This position is essential for the sustainable growth and operational success of the command.

    Dana Burke - Group Human Capital Management Chief of Staff

    Dana Burke, the Group Human Capital Management Chief of Staff at NAVAIR, directs strategic initiatives focused on workforce development and talent management. This leadership position is pivotal in ensuring NAVAIR possesses the skilled personnel necessary to support advanced naval aviation technologies and systems. Burke oversees the implementation of human capital strategies designed to attract, retain, and develop a high-performing workforce. The Group Human Capital Management Chief of Staff's responsibilities include fostering a supportive and productive work environment that aligns with the command's mission. By optimizing human capital resources, Dana Burke enhances NAVAIR's ability to provide comprehensive support for Navy and Marine Corps aircraft. This role is fundamental to maintaining the operational readiness and technological edge of naval aviation.

    Jeffrey Pizanti - Navair Reserve Program Chief of Staff

    Jeffrey Pizanti, the Navair Reserve Program Chief of Staff at NAVAIR, leads the strategic integration and operational oversight of the Naval Air Systems Command Reserve Program. This role is critical for ensuring the seamless coordination between active-duty components and reserve forces supporting naval aviation. Pizanti directs initiatives that enhance the readiness and capabilities of the reserve component, ensuring they are fully equipped to support NAVAIR's mission. The Navair Reserve Program Chief of Staff's responsibilities include optimizing training, resource allocation, and operational planning for reserve personnel. By strengthening the reserve program, Jeffrey Pizanti significantly contributes to the overall effectiveness and responsiveness of NAVAIR in providing advanced technology and material support for Navy and Marine Corps aircraft. This position is vital for maintaining a robust and adaptable naval aviation support structure.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding NAVAIR Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads NAVAIR?
    NAVAIR is led by Theresa Shafer (Chief Technology Officer), along with executives such as Rebecca Vasbinder-Sullivan (Chief of Staff) and Cynthia Morgan (Chief of Staff, NAWCAD WOLF).
    Who is part of NAVAIR’s executive team?
    The executive team of NAVAIR includes leaders such as Theresa Shafer (Chief Technology Officer), Rebecca Vasbinder-Sullivan (Chief of Staff), Cynthia Morgan (Chief of Staff, NAWCAD WOLF) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does NAVAIR have?
    NAVAIR has 6 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in NAVAIR’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of NAVAIR includes roles such as Chief Technology Officer, Chief of Staff, Chief of Staff, NAWCAD WOLF, Manager, Business & Chief of Staff, Group Human Capital Management Chief of Staff.