Craig Stoker is a seasoned executive with over 35 years of leadership experience in aerospace, defense, and EPCC (Engineering, Procurement, Construction, and Commissioning) industries. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated comprehensive expertise in execution, strategic planning, management, organizational development, and team building. His extensive knowledge encompasses all aspects of project management, including engineering, construction, manufacturing, commissioning, certification, and operations.
As President of Stoker Consulting Inc., Craig leverages his vast experience to help companies, teams, and individuals succeed in their endeavors. He specializes in mission assurance, systems engineering-driven project management, quality assurance, and product certification, providing innovative solutions to complex projects.
Prior to his consultancy role, Craig served as the Senior Program Director for the BE-4 Rocket Engine at Blue Origin, LLC, from 2020 to 2022. In this capacity, he led the completion of the BE-4 rocket engine development, delivering the first BE-4 to United Launch Alliance for the Vulcan launch vehicle. He managed a large multidisciplinary team across multiple sites, ensuring performance, delivery, scope, and execution of the BE-4 contract with ULA.
Before his tenure at Blue Origin, Craig held various managerial positions at Bechtel Corporation from 2011 to 2020 including the corporate head of quality for 3 years. As a Project Manager for Mobile Launcher 2 at Kennedy Space Center, he oversaw the design, fabrication, construction, and commissioning of NASA’s Mobile Launcher 2 project. He led a diverse team in optimizing the project’s design and execution to meet technical, cost, and schedule objectives while fostering a mission-focused culture.
Craig’s earlier career includes significant roles at Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne, where he contributed to the development and management of various rocket engine programs. Notable achievements include leading the RS-68 program with full P&L responsibility and achieving 100% mission success, multiple 100% award fee scores, and significant contract wins. The RS-68 was the first clean sheet commercially developed rocket engine using design to cost as a key parameter.
Craig holds a Master of Business Administration from Pepperdine University and a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from San Diego State University. He has been recognized throughout his career for his leadership skills and accomplishments, receiving prestigious awards such as the NASA Silver Snoopy Award and the RNASA Award for Development of the RS-68 Rocket Engine.
With a proven track record of delivering results and driving excellence, Craig Stoker is a respected leader in the aerospace and defense industry, known for his ability to inspire teams, forge strategic alliances, and achieve operational excellence.
Character: Craig Stoker exemplifies integrity, resilience, and dedication in all his endeavors, fostering trust and respect among colleagues and stakeholders.
Knowledge: With over 35 years of experience in aerospace, defense, and EPCC industries, Craig possesses comprehensive expertise in project management, engineering, and quality assurance.
Strategic: Craig demonstrates adept strategic thinking, consistently aligning organizational goals with innovative solutions to overcome challenges and drive success.
Communication: Craig’s exceptional communication skills enable effective collaboration, stakeholder engagement, and the dissemination of complex information with clarity and precision.