Title: Executive Director
Company: Stafford Air and Space Museum
Location: Fay, Oklahoma, United States
Colton R. Parkinson, Executive Director at Stafford Air and Space Museum, has been recognized by Marquis Who’s Who Top Executives for dedication, achievements, and leadership in Engineering.
Mr. Parkinson is a facilities engineer at the Stafford Air and Space Museum, an affiliate of the Smithsonian and one of the most comprehensive air and space museums in the central U.S. Since 2022, he has been involved in managing an expansion project that encompasses 12,000 square feet with a budget of $4.5 million. This project includes an education center featuring flight simulators and hands-on activities for children to play, develop and learn. Mr. Parkinson also oversees all decision-making regarding the content and design of this new SAM Engagement Center. His role comes after beginning his career as the museum’s registrar in 2021. During his tenure, he also taught in the engineering technology department at Southwestern Oklahoma State University between 2023 and 2024.
Highly educated, Mr. Parkinson obtained a bachelor’s degree in engineering technology and manufacturing engineering, summa cum laude, from Southwestern Oklahoma State University in 2022 and a master’s degree in classroom education in 2025. He also completed several internships while pursuing his undergraduate degree at NASA and the Stafford Air and Space Museum. Before earning his degrees, Mr. Parkinson served in the U.S. Air Force from 2010 to 2012 as a C130 crew chief. He remains active as a member of the Society of Manufacturing Engineers and gives back to local causes as a volunteer at the Old Caldwell Trail Stables.
One of Mr. Parkinson’s most notable achievements was his work and development with a team at the Prototype Development Laboratory. He was also grateful for his experience as the project manager at the Stafford Air and Space Museum, where he was responsible for adding the F-117 Stealth Fighter to its collection. This project involved everything from the logistics to negotiating restoration efforts before the aircraft could be displayed. Moreover, Mr. Parkinson appeared briefly in a NASA promotional video. Attributing his success to his strong family support, particularly from his wife, he intends to spend the next few years preserving history and inspiring the next generation through his work.
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