NASA Names Acting Leaders for Two Key Human Spaceflight Roles

NASA

by Cheryl Warner

February 26, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

NASA has announced two key leadership appointments to advance its human spaceflight mission. Joel Montalbano has been named acting associate administrator for the Space Operations Mission Directorate (SOMD), while Dana Hutcherson will serve as the acting program manager of the Commercial Crew Program, effective immediately. Both leaders have extensive experience in NASA's operations and are well-suited to continue driving progress in space exploration. Montalbano, who previously served as deputy associate administrator for SOMD, brings decades of expertise managing critical programs like the International Space Station and human spaceflight initiatives. His priorities include establishing a sustainable low Earth orbit economy and maintaining U.S. leadership in space. Hutcherson, previously deputy manager of NASA's Commercial Crew Program, will focus on overseeing the development of reliable crew transportation systems for low-Earth orbit destinations, including the International Space Station. These appointments come as Kenneth Bowersox retired from his role, leaving Montalbano and Hutcherson to lead NASA’s efforts in advancing its National Space Policy. Their roles are crucial for ensuring the agency meets its goals of retiring the ISS while fostering a robust commercial space economy. Both leaders have a proven track record in managing complex space operations, making them ideal candidates to maintain momentum in human spaceflight. Montalbano’s background includes stints as a NASA flight director and program manager for the International Space Station, where he gained extensive experience in mission management and international collaboration. Hutcherson has focused on systems engineering and integration within NASA's commercial crew efforts, ensuring safe and reliable spacecraft development. Their combined expertise will be vital in maintaining U.S. superiority in space and pushing forward ambitious goals like lunar exploration and beyond-Earth orbit missions. These leadership changes underscore NASA’s commitment to sustaining its leadership in space while fostering innovation and collaboration with the private sector. As the agency transitions key roles, Montalbano and Hutcherson are well-positioned to ensure continued progress in advancing humanity’s presence in space. Their appointments reflect NASA’s strategic focus on both near-term milestones and long-term aspirations for exploring the cosmos.

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Originally published on NASA on 2/26/2026