NAVAIR Executive and Leadership Team

May, 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
  • Navair Reserve Program Chief of Staff - Jeffrey Pizanti
  • Group Human Capital Management Chief of Staff - Dana Burke
  • Manager, Business & Chief of Staff - Gail Ridgell
  • 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 strategic roadmap for technological innovation, Shafer ensures NAVAIR remains at the forefront of defense capabilities. This leadership involves identifying and implementing cutting-edge solutions that enhance aircraft performance, safety, and operational effectiveness for the Navy and Marine Corps. Shafer's focus extends to fostering collaboration with industry partners and research institutions to accelerate the development and deployment of next-generation aviation technologies. By driving technological advancements, Theresa Shafer directly supports the command's mission to provide superior material support and systems for naval aviation, ensuring combat readiness in evolving threat environments. The Chief Technology Officer's role is pivotal in maintaining NAVAIR's technological superiority and operational advantage.
    Theresa Shafer

    Rebecca Vasbinder-Sullivan - Chief of Staff

    Rebecca Vasbinder-Sullivan, the Chief of Staff at NAVAIR, manages the operational efficiency and strategic execution of the command's directives. This role involves coordinating activities across various departments, ensuring seamless communication and alignment with overarching goals. Vasbinder-Sullivan oversees the implementation of key initiatives, driving progress in areas critical to naval aviation support. The Chief of Staff's responsibilities include streamlining processes, optimizing resource allocation, and enhancing overall organizational performance. By providing critical support to leadership, Rebecca Vasbinder-Sullivan facilitates effective decision-making and ensures that NAVAIR's mission of providing advanced technology and material support for naval aircraft is met with precision and agility. This position is essential for maintaining the command's operational tempo and strategic focus.

    Cynthia Morgan - Chief of Staff, NAWCAD WOLF

    Cynthia Morgan, the Chief of Staff, NAWCAD WOLF at NAVAIR, spearheads strategic operations and administrative functions for the Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division (NAWCAD) Weapons Division. This critical role involves directing initiatives that enhance the development, testing, and sustainment of naval aviation weapons systems. Morgan ensures that NAWCAD WOLF's operations align with broader NAVAIR objectives, focusing on delivering advanced capabilities to the fleet. The Chief of Staff, NAWCAD WOLF's responsibilities encompass optimizing workflows, managing resources, and fostering a culture of innovation within the division. By driving operational excellence, Cynthia Morgan directly contributes to the command's mandate of providing cutting-edge technology and material support for naval aircraft, ensuring superior performance and readiness for Navy and Marine Corps aviators. This leadership position is vital for the effective functioning of a key NAWCAD component.

    Jeffrey Pizanti - Navair Reserve Program Chief of Staff

    Jeffrey Pizanti, the Navair Reserve Program Chief of Staff at NAVAIR, leads the strategic direction and operational management of the Naval Air Systems Command Reserve Program. This role is crucial for integrating reserve component capabilities into the broader mission of supporting naval aviation. Pizanti oversees the development and execution of programs designed to leverage the unique skills and experiences of reservists, ensuring they are effectively utilized in providing advanced technology and material support. The Navair Reserve Program Chief of Staff's responsibilities include enhancing readiness, fostering professional development, and ensuring seamless coordination between active duty and reserve personnel. By guiding the reserve program, Jeffrey Pizanti significantly contributes to NAVAIR's overall capacity to support Navy and Marine Corps aircraft, reinforcing the command's commitment to operational excellence and fleet readiness.

    Dana Burke - Group Human Capital Management Chief of Staff

    Dana Burke, the Group Human Capital Management Chief of Staff at NAVAIR, directs the strategic initiatives focused on workforce development and talent management across key operational groups. This leadership position is essential for ensuring NAVAIR possesses a highly skilled and motivated workforce capable of supporting advanced naval aviation systems. Burke oversees the implementation of human capital strategies that attract, retain, and develop personnel critical to the command's mission. The Group Human Capital Management Chief of Staff's responsibilities include optimizing organizational structures, enhancing employee engagement, and aligning human resources functions with NAVAIR's technological and operational objectives. By driving effective human capital management, Dana Burke directly supports the command's ability to provide comprehensive technology and material support for naval aviation, ensuring sustained readiness and innovation.

    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 key business functions while also directing administrative and operational initiatives that streamline processes and improve decision-making. Ridgell focuses on optimizing resource allocation, ensuring financial stewardship, and driving operational efficiencies across NAVAIR's diverse portfolio. The Manager, Business & Chief of Staff's responsibilities include fostering strong business partnerships and ensuring alignment between strategic goals and day-to-day operations. By expertly managing business affairs and providing essential staff leadership, Gail Ridgell directly contributes to NAVAIR's mission of delivering advanced technology and material support for naval aviation, reinforcing the command's commitment to excellence and readiness.

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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, Navair Reserve Program Chief of Staff, Group Human Capital Management Chief of Staff.