“At a time of unprecedented growth across all sectors of space, Stephen’s familiarity with and understanding of our customers’ needs across both the defense and intelligence communities will help ensure we fulfill our role as a trusted partner to the nation’s space enterprise,” said Steve Isakowitz, Aerospace president and CEO. “Stephen brings extensive legal and national security expertise to our board that will be very beneficial as Aerospace navigates this pivotal moment in the space industry.” 

Preston is the first person to have held both Senate-confirmed positions of general counsel of the DoD and, prior to that, general counsel of the CIA. He has also served as general counsel of the Navy and in other positions at the Pentagon and the U.S. Department of Justice. He is currently a partner at WilmerHale and chair of the firm’s Defense, National Security, and Government Contracts practice. His work includes investigations, litigation, federal procurement, civil fraud, foreign investment in the United States, cybersecurity, strategic counseling, and crisis management. He has also written and spoken widely on topics relating to law and national security, and he has testified before Congress on several occasions.

“We’re thrilled to welcome an individual of Stephen’s distinguished caliber and expertise to Aerospace’s Board,” said Stephanie O’Sullivan, chair of the Board of Trustees. “His experiences across the defense, intelligence, cybersecurity, and legal sectors will bring invaluable strategic insight and stewardship to the efforts of this organization.”

Aerospace’s Board of Trustees has a myriad of backgrounds, representing academic and scientific institutions, and public, government, and national security interests. These diverse points of view allow the board members to collectively provide better guidance and oversight of the corporation’s activities.