The National Aviation Hall of Fame (NAHF) is pleased to announce that Charles F. Bolden Jr., Matthew Jesch, and David Paddock have joined its Board of Trustees. Jesch will serve as the organization’s Treasurer.
“We are delighted to have Charlie Bolden, Matt Jesch, and Dave Paddock join us as colleagues and look forward to their invaluable contributions as we continue to advance our aviation education programs and prepare for our highly anticipated Annual Enshrinement Ceremony on September 22, 2023, in Washington D.C. Their exceptional leadership and expertise in the aviation industry will undoubtedly help us honor aerospace legends and inspire future leaders to make their own mark in this exciting field,” said Jim Cooling, the NAHF’s Board Chair.
Major General Charles F. Bolden Jr., USMC (Ret.), a decorated naval aviator, test pilot, astronaut, and NAHF Enshrinee, served as the 12th Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) from 2009 to 2017. Throughout his distinguished tenure at NASA, Administrator Bolden forged innovative solutions and programs through government and industry collaboration. He oversaw the transition from the Space Shuttle system to a new era of exploration, the spectacular Mars Curiosity Rover landing and created the Space Technology Mission Directorate. Bolden has received numerous military and civilian honors, including the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit, Distinguished Flying Cross, Air Medal, NASA Exceptional Service Medal, and NASA Space Flight Medal. He was inducted into the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame in 2006 and the National Aviation Hall of Fame in 2017. Bolden serves today as Founder and CEO Emeritus of the Charles F. Bolden Group, a veteran-owned small business specializing in space/aerospace exploration, national security, leadership, education (STEM+AD), and health initiatives.
”I am thrilled to join the National Aviation Hall of Fame Board and to contribute to its important mission,” said Charles Bolden. “Throughout my career, I have been inspired by the brave men and women who have made aviation history, and I am deeply honored to be part of an organization that celebrates their achievements and inspires future generations.”
Matthew Jesch is a seasoned executive with over thirty-five years of financial and operational experience with public and private companies. Since 2007, he has been chief financial officer of Tailwind Technologies Inc., a holding company that owns five aviation related manufacturing businesses, including the world’s oldest aviation propeller company, Hartzell Propeller. Hartzell Propeller was founded in 1917 and traces its roots to the Wright Brother’s first production airplanes. Matt recently transitioned to Executive Vice President to dedicate his effort to operations, strategy, and business growth. Over his time with Tailwind Technologies, Matt has led or participated in over two dozen transactions that have helped further establish the Hartzell brand of companies as a leader in general aviation.
Prior to joining Tailwind Technologies, Jesch’s background included serving as chief financial officer at NewPage Corporation, a $2.5 billion paper manufacturer, following years with the former Mead Corporation and MeadWestvaco Corporation. He successfully completed his CPA (not maintained). Matt has been a member of numerous private operating boards. He is also treasurer of Ghost Riders Capital LLC, a private equity oriented alternative investment vehicle.
Matt and his wife Pam split time between their residences in Dayton, Ohio and Kiawah Island, South Carolina. They have three grown daughters.
“I am honored to join the National Aviation Hall of Fame Board and to serve as its treasurer,” said Matt Jesch. “As a longtime aviation business executive, I have always admired the NAHF’s commitment to honoring the pioneers and innovators who have shaped our industry. With its rich history and exciting future, the NAHF is a true treasure for all who love aviation, and I am eager to contribute to its success.”
Dave Paddock was named President of Jet Aviation in July 2019, drawing on over 25 years’ aviation experience. He is responsible for operations across some 50 global locations and five lines of business, including business aircraft maintenance, completions, FBO, aircraft services and defence. Paddock was appointed SVP US regional operations in January 2015, where he was responsible for Jet Aviation’s US portfolio, including maintenance, FBO and aircraft services. Paddock was previously SVP business development and strategic planning, since joining the company in January 2007.
Prior to joining Jet Aviation, Paddock served as VP and Managing Officer for SH&E, specializing in business aviation strategy and market analysis, business planning, commercial aircraft fleet analysis, maintenance, asset management, and appraisals. He supported numerous aerospace industry transactions and acted as an expert witness in various legal proceedings. He joined SH&E in May 1996.
Paddock served as Chairman of the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) in 2020 and remains active with many industry organizations including the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA), Middle East Business Aviation Association (MEBAA), National Aviation Hall of Fame and The Wings Club. He holds a US Private Pilot certificate, is an ISTAT-certified aircraft appraiser and was recently accepted as a Fellow of the Royal Aeronautical Society.
Paddock holds a Bachelor of Science degree in environmental science from Stockton University, graduating in July 19 89. He and his family reside in Basel, Switzerland.
“Celebrating aerospace legends while developing future aerospace leaders are two causes very dear to me so I am delighted to join the National Aviation Hall of Fame Board to provide support and guidance in collaboration with the leadership team,’’ said Dave Paddock. “The NAHF’s ongoing transformation, including the new aviation curriculum, updates to Heritage Hall and Education Center, and Enshrinement Ceremony plans, demonstrates their commitment to excellence and innovation and it is an honor to help advance these efforts.”
Bolden, Jesch, and Paddock join a distinguished group of NAHF board members dedicated to honoring aviation legends and inspiring future leaders.
