Speakers

Dr. Melissa Patton
Strategic Advisor, Aerospace and Defense Operations | Founder, Patton Consulting Group

Dr. Melissa Patton is a seasoned aerospace and education executive with more than 20 years of experience leading strategic growth, operational transformation, and public-private collaborations across high-stakes sectors. As a strategic advisor to HED Engineering, Dr. Patton guides the company’s transition from a European ground support equipment manufacturer to a U.S.-anchored aerospace entity delivering next-generation infrastructure solutions for commercial and defense markets.

Her work focuses on bridging operational execution and market strategy, helping organizations modernize ground systems, secure industrial control platforms, and develop resilient supply chains to meet the demands of rapid launch operations and national security priorities.

Throughout her career, Dr. Patton has partnered with defense agencies, technology innovators, and workforce development organizations to drive sustainable growth and operational readiness. She is passionate about integrating engineering breakthroughs, cybersecurity best practices, and talent development into the foundational infrastructure that supports the evolving space economy.

Dr. Patton holds a doctorate in organizational leadership and has advised startup founders, government contractors, and small and medium sized companies on scaling complex operations.