After an extensive national search, Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum (PHAM) has announced the appointment of distinguished retired naval aviator John P. Hiltz as its first Chief Executive Officer.
Hiltz, a 2002 graduate of the University of Notre Dame with a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering, earned his Wings of Gold in 2005. As a combat-proven carrier aviator, he deployed three times while flying the F/A-18 Super Hornet, twice aboard USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) and once aboard USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75), supporting Operations Enduring Freedom, Iraqi Freedom, and Inherent Resolve. He was selected to join the U.S. Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron, the Blue Angels, serving from 2012 to 2014 as the Right Wing pilot (#2) in over 135 airshows across North America. Among PHAM’s historic collection is an F/A-18 Hornet that Hiltz piloted many times during multiple Blue Angels performances.
Over the course of his nearly 23-year Navy career, Hiltz accumulated more than 3,300 flight hours and 471 carrier-arrested landings across all variants of the F/A-18. His leadership roles included instructor pilot, officer-in-charge of multinational exercises, and the commanding officer for Navy recruiting in the Pacific Northwest. He concluded his career as the executive officer and director of strategy for hypersonic and cruise missile systems within the Indo-Pacific region, advancing missile capabilities and fostering international partnerships.
Hiltz met his wife, Mary, in Honolulu in 2012, and resides in Kailua with their two daughters.
“After a thorough and competitive national search, we are proud to welcome John Hiltz as the museum’s first CEO,” said General Raymond Johns (USAF Ret.), Chairman of the Board. “John brings a rare combination of distinguished military service, proven leadership and a passion for aviation that aligns perfectly with our mission. His vision and expertise will be instrumental in guiding the museum into its next chapter of growth and impact.”
As Chief Executive Officer, Hiltz will lead the strategic vision and daily operations of the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum, collaborating closely with the Board of Directors, staff, and community partners to further the museum’s mission of preserving America’s World War II aviation battlefield. He will oversee key initiatives including exhibit development, educational programming, and long-term planning while strengthening the museum’s national presence and building partnerships that support its continued growth and sustainability.
“I am deeply honored to join Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum as its first CEO,” said Hiltz. “This museum holds a vital place in our nation’s history, and I look forward to working with the dedicated team here to preserve and share the stories of history, valor, and innovation that shaped the Pacific and our world. Together, we will inspire future generations through education, engagement, and the power of flight.” With the appointment of John P. Hiltz as its first Chief Executive Officer, Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum enters a new era of leadership and innovation. As the museum continues to expand its reach and deepen its impact, Hiltz’s experience and vision will be essential in honoring the past while charting a bold course for the future.
