Tory Bruno

Salvatore T. "Tory" Bruno is an accomplished aerospace engineer and executive currently serving as the President and CEO of United Launch Alliance (ULA), a position he has held since August 2014. Under his leadership, ULA has navigated significant competition in the space launch industry, particularly from newer entrants like SpaceX, while maintaining its reputation for reliability and success in national security and NASA missions.134

Professional Background

Before joining ULA, Bruno spent over 30 years at Lockheed Martin, where he rose through the ranks from mechanical engineer to executive roles. He served as Vice President and General Manager of Strategic and Missile Defense Systems, overseeing critical programs such as the Navy's Trident II D5 Fleet Ballistic Missile and the Air Force's ICBM Reentry Systems.234 His extensive experience includes managing advanced weapon systems and missile defense technologies, contributing to his expertise in rocketry and hypersonic technologies, for which he holds multiple patents.5

Education

Bruno earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo. He has also completed various graduate courses and management programs at prestigious institutions, including Harvard University and Santa Clara University.14

Contributions to ULA

Since taking the helm at ULA, Bruno has implemented significant organizational changes aimed at reducing launch costs and cycle times while preserving the company’s 100% success rate on launches. He initiated the development of the Vulcan Centaur rocket, designed to enhance ULA's capabilities in a competitive market.35 His strategic vision has positioned ULA as a key player in both national security and commercial space endeavors.

Recognition and Honors

Bruno is recognized as an Honorary Fellow of the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) and is a member of the National Academy of Engineering. He has received several awards for his contributions to aerospace and engineering, including the Von Braun Trophy and the American Astronautical Society Space Flight Award.35

In addition to his professional achievements, Bruno is also an author, having written two books exploring the organizational structures of the medieval Knights Templar through a modern business lens.14