NASA Appoints Troy Asher as Director of Armstrong Flight Research Center

NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman has officially appointed Troy Asher as the director of the Armstrong Flight Research Center in Edwards, California. Asher, who had been serving as the center's acting director since March 2024, succeeds Bradley Flick, who retired after a 40-year career with the agency.

Leadership and Background

Asher brings extensive experience in aerospace engineering and flight operations to his new role. His career trajectory includes:

• Military Service: A 24-year career in the U.S. Air Force, retiring as a lieutenant colonel. He served as an instructor at the U.S. Air Force Test Pilot School and commander of the 419th Flight Test Squadron.
• NASA Tenure: Joined NASA in 2008 as a research test pilot. He has flown various aircraft, including the F-15, F/A-18, and the SOFIA observatory.
• Previous Role: Served as the director of Flight Operations at Armstrong, managing pilots, engineers, and a specialized fleet of aircraft.

Vision for Armstrong

As director, Asher will lead the center's efforts to revitalize NASA's X-plane portfolio and advance flight-test capabilities. The Armstrong Flight Research Center serves as NASA’s primary hub for flight testing and aircraft operations. Leadership expects his expertise to be critical in evolving how the agency develops and evaluates emerging aviation technologies.

How to Verify

Official announcements regarding NASA leadership appointments are published via the agency's newsroom. For detailed information on the center's mission and ongoing projects, visit the official NASA Armstrong Flight Research Center website or consult their public affairs office in Edwards, California.