Space Shuttle Program Manager Bill Parsons has named Gregory C. Johnson as the Manager of Launch Integration at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, Fla. Johnson assumed his new position June 14. In this capacity, he is responsible for all aspects of Space Shuttle preparation, launch and return of the orbiter to KSC following flight.
Johnson joins KSC from NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston, where he was selected in 1998 as class leader of the 17th group of NASA Astronauts. His previous assignment was Deputy, Shuttle Operations Branch in the astronaut office. Johnson also served as one of the Astronaut Support Personnel responsible for configuring the orbiter switches prior to launch and strapping astronauts in their seats for liftoff. He also was the astronaut representative for all technical aspects of landing and roll out issues.
“Greg’s experience, coupled with the unique perspective he brings to KSC from his time in the Astronaut Corps, will be a tremendous asset to the Space Shuttle Program as we return the Shuttle fleet to safe flight,” said Parsons.
Prior to his acceptance in the Astronaut Corps, Johnson served four years as the Chief of the Maintenance & Engineering Branch responsible for all maintenance and engineering modifications on Johnson Space Center’s 44 aircraft. He held previous positions as an aerospace engineer and research pilot at Johnson’s Aircraft Operations Division at Ellington Field, a T-38 instructor, functional check flight and examiner pilot, Gulfstream I aircraft commander, WB-57 high altitude research pilot and KC-135 co-pilot.
“I could not be more pleased that Greg has joined my team,” said Denny Kross, Space Shuttle Deputy Program Manager at KSC. “His proven leadership style and extensive knowledge of the inner workings of the orbiter systems is invaluable as he oversees the day-to-day operations of preparing the Shuttles for safe missions.”
Johnson is the recipient of numerous awards and medals, including the NASA James A. Korkowski Excellence in Achievement Award, VA-128 Attack Pilot of the Year, Carrier Airwing Fifteen and Airwing Fourteen Top Ten Tailhook Pilot, two Navy Meritorious Service Medals, three Navy Commendation Medals, the Navy Achievement Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, and Humanitarian Service Medal.
Formerly of Seattle, Wash., Johnson holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Washington, and is a graduate of the U.S. Air Force Test Pilot School.
