Sue C. Payton

Advisory Board Member

Sue C. Payton is a distinguished leader in the aerospace and defense sectors, with a career spanning government service and private industry. From 2006 to 2009, she served as the United States Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Acquisition, overseeing multi-billion dollar acquisition programs and guiding technology advancements critical to national defense. Her leadership played a pivotal role in transforming the Air Force’s approach to procurement, systems integration, and technology deployment during a period of rapid innovation and shifting global security demands.

Before her role in the Air Force, Payton was Deputy Under Secretary of Defense for Advanced Systems and Concepts, where she championed developing and integrating cutting-edge technologies across the Department of Defense. Her work focused on accelerating the adoption of advanced systems in critical areas such as cybersecurity, space systems, and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).

In addition to her government service, Payton’s extensive private sector experience has been equally impactful. She began her career at Martin Marietta (now Lockheed Martin), where she held senior roles in systems integration and advanced technology. She later served as Vice President of Applied Technology at ImageLinks, Inc., a company acquired by Harris Corporation, further cementing her reputation as an expert in technology application and strategy in the defense industry.

Currently, Sue Payton is the President of SCI Aerospace Inc., providing strategic consulting to aerospace and defense companies. Her expertise includes advising on business growth strategies, acquisition processes, and technological innovation. She serves on several advisory boards, contributing her vast knowledge to guide companies in navigating the complexities of the defense sector.

Payton’s educational background includes a Bachelor of Science in Education from Eastern Illinois University and a Master of Science in Systems Acquisition Management and Systems Technology from the University of Southern California. She also completed the Executive Program at Emory University’s Goizueta Business School.

Throughout her career, Sue Payton has been recognized for her leadership and contributions to national security, defense acquisition, and technology innovation. Her deep expertise, coupled with a steadfast commitment to advancing aerospace and defense capabilities, continues to influence the strategic direction of the organizations she advises.