About M. Ellen Plese

BSAE 1984, Missouri University of Science and Technology
MBA 1990, Washington University in St. Louis
Professional ME 1999, UMR

Ellen began her career in January 1985, working for General Dynamics/Fort Worth Division in F-16 Flight Test Engineering and the F-16 Program Office. From 1988 through 1991, Ellen worked in the General Dynamics Corporate Office Engineering Organization managing technology transfer across the Corporation. In 1991, Ellen transferred to General Dynamics/Space Systems Division, Atlas Program, and has continued through transitions to Lockheed Martin Space Systems Company. She has held many management positions leading technology and new business development, advanced space systems, launch vehicle development for NASA missions, launch vehicle cycle time reduction, recurring cost reduction, and strategic planning. In December 2006, Lockheed Martin Corporation (LMC) and The Boeing Company (TBC) spun off their launch vehicle programs, Atlas and Delta, respectively, and created an independent limited liability corporation called United Launch Alliance. Within this new company, Ellen was responsible for transition, including consolidation of the Atlas and Delta Programs, formation of a new Headquarters, and separation from LMC and TBC. In August 2010, Ellen assumed the position of ULA Director, Customer Program Office. She has recently transferred back to the Program Office, and is working on launch vehicle evolution projects.