Search

From high-stakes programs to higher education, teammate shapes future

Meet a Boeing leader who connects the details of engineering work with the people and priorities that move aerospace forward.

October 16, 2026 in Defense

Employee stands at a Boeing booth at a recruiting event Chad Stearns representing Boeing at a recruiting event. (Courtesy of Chad Stearns)

From the classroom to high-stakes U.S. and allied defense programs, Chad Stearns has a proven record of delivering results.

Values in action
As a leader supporting a high-profile Boeing Executive Fleet program, which modifies and supports aircraft for heads of state and VIP transport, Stearns lives Boeing’s Value of People Focus by bringing together the people and work needed to stay on track. “Over my career, I’ve found that the best results come from clear communication, teamwork, and staying focused on the mission,” Stearns said. “I believe strong execution starts with listening and alignment, which enable all our teammates to execute the mission.”

“Chad is an incredible partner in the office, and I always know I can count on him whenever I need help. He steps up without hesitation and embodies the qualities of a future aerospace leader.” - Angela Heckman, office administrator

Since joining Boeing in 2019, Stearns has been a leader in roles across E-7 International, Phantom Works and other executive fleet programs. He earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration, cum laude, and a master’s degree in systems engineering from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.

Keeping the details in view and the mission in focus
Colleagues say one of his biggest strengths is connecting the details of complex engineering work with the bigger picture of running a program.

“Chad is an incredible partner in the office, and I always know I can count on him whenever I need help,” said Angela Heckman, office administrator. “He steps up without hesitation and embodies the qualities of a future aerospace leader. I’m grateful to have him as a teammate.”

Beyond Boeing, Stearns also teaches as an adjunct professor at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University’s Worldwide School of Engineering, where he mentors future aviation professionals. Stearns says he shared a love of aviation with his father, who held a private pilot’s license, and hopes to pass that same passion to his son.

Employee as a toddler with his father, a pilot, pretending to fly an aircraft Chad Stearns (foreground) with his father, a pilot, pretending to fly an aircraft. (Courtesy of Chad Stearns)

Career milestone fuels motivation to reach higher
Stearns’ experience shows how program leadership and investing in future aerospace professionals can go hand in hand. He was recently recognized by the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) as one of 30 Emerging Aerospace Leaders under the age of 30, an award honoring young professionals for technical achievement, future potential and overall excellence.

“Having my work recognized by such a respected organization is a huge milestone that reaffirms my passion for aerospace,” Stearns said. “This achievement not only marks a key steppingstone in my career but also drives me to keep reaching higher and tackling the complex engineering challenges ahead with our team at Boeing.”

By Lauren Brennecke