Title: Retired Director of Systems and Software
Company: Boeing Space Exploration
Location: Fountain Valley, California, United States
Peter R. Kurzhals, Retired Director of Systems and Software at Boeing Space Exploration, has been recognized by Marquis Who’s Who Top Executives for dedication, achievements, and leadership in aerospace engineering.
Backed by more than 50 years of experience in manned spaceflight, Dr. Kurzhals retired in 2011 after having served as the director of systems and software for Boeing Space Exploration since 2002. Prior to these appointments, he excelled as the director of product support and director of systems engineering and support for Boeing NASA Systems between 1995 and 2002. In addition, he worked as the director of advanced space flight programs for McDonnell Douglas Astronautics Company from 1992 to 1994 and as a senior consultant for Booz Allen Hamilton in 1984 and 1985. Between 1970 and 1984, he flourished with NASA as a manager of the guidance and control branch, the director of the electronics division, the director of the space division and the assistant director of mission operations. Dr. Kurzhals’ began his career as a member and manager of the stability and control branch at the NASA Langley Research Center from 1960 to 1969.
Since 2019, Dr. Kurzhals has found success as the president of the Orange County chapter for Sigma Xi, the Scientific Research Honor Society in Fountain Valley, California. A fellow of the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics, he also holds membership with the Aviation Wall of Fame, the Academy of AOE Excellence and the Ut Prosim Society. Notably, he has been recognized as the Orange County Engineer of the Year, having attributed his success to his mentors, Wernher von Braun and Chris Kraft. Reflecting on his career trajectory, he recalls his participation in the development and operation of the Space Shuttle and International Space Station as the highlights of his career. Pursuing an education at the Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Dr. Kurzhals earned a Bachelor of Science in 1960, a Master of Science in 1962 and a Doctor of Philosophy in 1966, all of which with a concentration in aeronautical and aerospace engineering.
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Albert Nelson Marquis Lifetime Achievement Award
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