Michael Manney

Leadership is about more than accomplishing the mission—it’s about developing people who can accomplish missions long after you’re gone. As a retired U.S. Air Force Major with over 32 years of leadership experience, I’ve had the privilege of leading global mobility operations, directing operational test programs, managing defense acquisition efforts, and overseeing programs valued at more than $57 billion. My career included assignments across the United States, Japan, and Afghanistan, where I led diverse teams in aviation, logistics, operational planning, program management, and organizational leadership. Today, I serve as the Senior Aerospace Science Instructor for the Air Force Junior ROTC program at Santiago High School in Corona, California. While the mission has changed, my purpose has not. I am committed to developing young leaders of character through mentorship, education, and service. Throughout my career, I’ve learned that the most enduring legacy of leadership is not the programs you manage or the budgets you oversee—it’s the people you inspire and prepare to lead. Whether guiding combat operations, managing complex acquisition programs, or mentoring high school cadets, I strive to build organizations that are stronger, more capable, and mission-focused. My experience includes: • Executive leadership and organizational management • Aviation and global mobility operations • Defense acquisition and program management • Operational test and evaluation • Strategic planning and logistics • Leadership development and mentoring • Training and education • Community partnerships and public service I believe in servant leadership, continuous improvement, accountability, and leading by example. Every challenge is an opportunity to build trust, solve problems, and help others succeed. Whether working with military professionals, students, educators, civic organizations, or industry leaders, my goal remains the same: develop capable teams, foster future leaders, and leave every organization better than I found it.