MICHAEL P. MOLESWORTH
Colorado Springs
Summary
Senior space systems leader with 20+ years of experience in aerospace and defense. Proven track record in advanced technology integration and program leadership, driving multi-agency initiatives to improve operational readiness. Recognized advisor to senior leaders on future force design and national security strategies.
Overview
23
23
years of professional experience
Work History
Deputy Chief, Future Technologies Division
Space Security and Defense Program (U.S. Space Force)
Colorado Springs
06.2024 - Current
- Lead joint Government, FFRDC, and industry teams advancing next-generation space defense technologies supporting national security priorities
- Direct integration of advanced capabilities, including directed energy and space control systems, into future operational architectures
- Coordinated across DoD, Intelligence Community, and combatant commands to synchronize technology development with operational requirements
- Managed $98M+ contracts to enhance modeling, simulation, and force design decisions for U.S. Space Force
- Developed mitigation strategies addressing critical capability gaps from major program funding changes, ensuring mission effectiveness
Branch Chief, Future Technology Division
Space Security and Defense Program (U.S. Space Force)
Colorado Springs
10.2022 - 06.2024
- Led multi-agency technical teams transitioning emerging technologies into operational space defense capabilities
- Guided development of modeling and simulation tools that informed strategic planning and investment decisions
- Partnered with national laboratories and industry to create technology options that addressed space defense mission gaps
- Resolved cross-organizational technical and acquisition challenges that ensured success of high-priority defense programs
Division Chief / Deputy Chief, Mission Thread Assessments
Headquarters U.S. Space Force, Office of the Inspector General
Peterson SFB
02.2021 - 10.2022
- Directed enterprise-wide inspections and readiness assessments across 256 units, 64 locations, and 42,000+ personnel
- Led evaluation of space operations including missile warning, SATCOM, space control, and acquisition programs
- Oversaw mission validation for critical systems, including intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) launch operations
- Identified systemic risks and capability gaps, informing senior leader decisions on readiness and force structure
- Recognized with DAF Inspector General Lt Gen Leaf Award (Top Staff Inspector)
Deputy Chief, Continuous Improvement Inspection Branch
Headquarters U.S. Space Force, Office of the Inspector General
Peterson AFB
05.2019 - 02.2021
- Led planning and execution of inspections across global Space Force units supporting over 40,000 personnel
- Developed inspection frameworks assessing operational effectiveness, compliance, and mission readiness
- Conducted large-scale readiness exercises and program evaluations across space and cyber domains
- Delivered actionable insights to senior leadership improving mission performance and risk management
Director of Inspections
30th Space Wing (Air Force Space Command)
Vandenberg AFB
04.2016 - 05.2019
- Directed inspection programs supporting space launch operations valued at over $6B
- Led teams of up to 200 personnel executing inspections, evaluations, and readiness exercises
- Identified mission risks and compliance gaps across launch, security, and operational systems
- Coordinated with wing leadership to implement corrective actions and improve operational effectiveness
Chief, Mission Solutions / Systems Architect
Space and Missile Systems Center
Los Angeles AFB
07.2015 - 04.2016
- Led development of innovative space acquisition strategies addressing mission capability gaps
- Conducted system architecture analysis supporting next-generation space programs
- Managed integration of engineering, requirements, and acquisition planning across major programs
Chief Architect, Ground & Communications Systems
Space and Missile Systems Center
Los Angeles AFB
03.2013 - 07.2015
- Developed enterprise-level space system architectures supporting national defense strategy
- Directed integration of multi-agency programs across $6B–$10B investment portfolios
- Identified cost-saving opportunities exceeding $1B annually through architecture optimization
Project Lead, Satellite Communications / Aerospace Engineer
U.S. Air Force
01.2003 - 01.2013
- Led engineering and integration of satellite communication systems and aircraft platforms
- Provided technical leadership supporting A-10 aircraft systems across multiple commands
- Resolved complex engineering challenges improving system performance and mission readiness
- Supported weapons integration, certification, and operational testing across multiple platforms
Education
Master of Science - Systems Engineering
Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT)
01-2012
Bachelor of Science - Mechanical Engineering
U.S. Air Force Academy
01-2003
Skills
- Space systems engineering and architecture
- Defense acquisition and program management
- Modeling, simulation and mission analysis
- Directed energy and advanced technologies
- Operational readiness and risk assessment
- Inspector general programs and compliance
- Multi-agency coordination (DoD, IC, NRO, USSPACECOM)
- Strategic planning and executive advisory
Awards
- Meritorious Service Medal (multiple awards)
- Air & Space Commendation Medal (multiple awards)
- Air & Space Achievement Medal
- National Defense Service Medal
- Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
Clearance
Top Secret / SCI Eligible
Timeline
Deputy Chief, Future Technologies Division
Space Security and Defense Program (U.S. Space Force)
06.2024 - Current
Branch Chief, Future Technology Division
Space Security and Defense Program (U.S. Space Force)
10.2022 - 06.2024
Division Chief / Deputy Chief, Mission Thread Assessments
Headquarters U.S. Space Force, Office of the Inspector General
02.2021 - 10.2022
Deputy Chief, Continuous Improvement Inspection Branch
Headquarters U.S. Space Force, Office of the Inspector General
05.2019 - 02.2021
Director of Inspections
30th Space Wing (Air Force Space Command)
04.2016 - 05.2019
Chief, Mission Solutions / Systems Architect
Space and Missile Systems Center
07.2015 - 04.2016
Chief Architect, Ground & Communications Systems
Space and Missile Systems Center
03.2013 - 07.2015
Project Lead, Satellite Communications / Aerospace Engineer
U.S. Air Force
01.2003 - 01.2013
Master of Science - Systems Engineering
Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT)
Bachelor of Science - Mechanical Engineering
U.S. Air Force Academy