James Kowakski, former deputy commander of the U.S. Strategic Command, has joined been named vice president of government relations at Northrop Grumman (NYSE: NOC) and corporate lead executive for the company’s office in Louisiana.
The 35-year U.S. Air Force veteran will report to Timothy Jones, vice president of Northrop’s aviation and ISR business in his new position, the company said Friday.
“[Kowalski]Â understands the challenges that our customers are facing and with his extensive Air Force experience, he is well-suited to support the Strategic Command, Global Strike Command and other customers in this area,” said Jones.
Kowalski led various Air Force units at the squadron, group, wing and major command levels and recorded nearly 4,600 flight hours with B-52, B-1 and E-3 aircraft.
He was promoted to the rank of lieutenant general in 2011.
He holds a bachelor’s degree in business from the University of Cincinnati and a master’s degree in management from Central Michigan University as well as a master’s degree in national security and strategic studies from the Naval War College.