NASA Armstrong Flight Research Center Director Bradley Flick Announces Retirement After Four Decades

NASA has announced the upcoming retirement of Bradley Flick, the director of NASA’s Armstrong Flight Research Center in Edwards, California. Flick, who has dedicated nearly 40 years to advancing aeronautics and flight research, will conclude his distinguished career on Thursday, March 19. His tenure at NASA began in 1986 as a flight systems engineer, and he steadily advanced through the organization to ultimately lead the Armstrong Center.

Flick’s career at NASA is marked by his involvement in numerous significant flight research initiatives. His early work included contributions to the groundbreaking X-29 forward-swept wing aircraft program. More recently, he oversaw the first flight of the X-59 quiet supersonic technology aircraft, a project aimed at developing technologies for quieter supersonic travel. Throughout his career, Flick was instrumental in a variety of experimental flight research projects and airborne science missions that supported NASA’s objectives and benefited the nation.

His academic background includes a bachelor’s degree in electrical and computer engineering from Clarkson University, which he obtained before joining NASA. Upon his arrival, Flick was assigned to the F/A-18 High Alpha Research Vehicle (HARV) project. He later transitioned to the Operations Engineering branch in 1988, where he played a key role in the development of experimental flight systems. These included advancements in thrust vectoring control, emergency electrical and hydraulic systems, and the development of a spin recovery parachute system. Flick also served as mission controller for approximately 100 HARV research flights. He further enhanced his qualifications by earning a master’s degree in engineering management from the Rochester Institute of Technology, a qualification that supported his progression into leadership roles.

Prior to his official appointment as Center Director on December 5, 2022, Flick served as acting director. His leadership experience at NASA Armstrong spans various crucial areas, including engineering and operations. He held significant positions such as Flight Systems branch chief, acting associate director for Flight Operations, center chief engineer, where he chaired the Airworthiness and Flight Safety Review Board, deputy director, and director for Research and Engineering. His comprehensive experience and technical acumen have significantly influenced the direction of flight research at NASA.

Flick’s leadership and technical expertise have been pivotal in shaping flight research at NASA, pushing the boundaries of aviation technology and advancing the field of aeronautics. As NASA continues to pioneer innovations in areas such as sustainable aviation and supersonic flight, Flick’s contributions are expected to remain a foundational element of the agency’s ongoing legacy. Following Flick’s retirement, Troy Asher will assume the role of acting center director, effective March 20. Asher brings valuable experience to this interim role, having previously served as the director of Flight Operations at NASA Armstrong.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from NASA News

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