Chris Coker
About Chris Coker
Chris Coker is the Vice President of Civil Programs at Maxar Space Systems, where he leads the Power & Propulsion Element Program, a key part of NASA’s Gateway Program.
Title and Current Role
Chris Coker holds the position of Vice President, Civil Programs at Maxar Space Systems. In this capacity, he is responsible for overseeing significant initiatives, including the Power & Propulsion Element Program, a critical component of NASA's Gateway Program. His role involves leading diverse teams and driving forward the company's involvement in high-profile aerospace projects.
Educational Background
Chris Coker has an extensive educational background in engineering and management. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in mechanical engineering from Tennessee Technological University. He furthered his expertise with a Master of Science degree in mechanical engineering from Purdue University. He also holds a Master of Business Administration from Vanderbilt University's Owen Graduate School of Management. Additionally, he completed a graduate certification in Space Systems Engineering from the Stevens Institute of Technology.
Professional Background and Expertise
Chris Coker has dedicated a significant portion of his career to the aerospace industry. His professional experience spans several key areas, including new business development, engineering of solar arrays and deployable mechanisms, and spacecraft thermal vacuum test operations. This comprehensive expertise has equipped him with the skills to lead major aerospace programs effectively.
Leadership in NASA's Gateway Program
Chris Coker plays a pivotal role in NASA's Gateway Program through his leadership of the Power & Propulsion Element Program at Maxar Space Systems. This project is essential for the future of deep space exploration, particularly in its support of NASA's efforts to establish a sustainable presence on the Moon. Under his guidance, Maxar Space Systems is contributing critical advancements in space technology.