CUPERTINO, CALIFORNIA – Apple has announced that Dr. Wanda Austin, former president and CEO of The Aerospace Corporation, has been nominated for election to Apple’s board of directors. Dr. Austin brings a wealth of experience in science and technology to her new role and has a proven track record of advancing innovation and shaping corporate strategy.
As the first woman and the first African American to hold the position of president and CEO of The Aerospace Corporation, Dr. Austin led an organization dedicated to supporting the U.S. space program and expanding opportunities for future exploration. Her nomination to Apple’s board of directors has been met with enthusiasm from the company’s leadership.
“Wanda has spent decades advancing technology on behalf of humanity, and we’re thrilled to welcome her to Apple’s board of directors,” said Tim Cook, Apple’s CEO. “She’s an extraordinary leader, and her invaluable experience and expertise will support our mission of leaving the world better than we found it.”
Arthur Levinson, the chair of Apple’s board of directors, also praised Dr. Austin’s appointment, stating, “She brings incredible insights and experience to our board, and she will play an important role in helping Apple continue enriching users’ lives around the world.”
Dr. Austin herself expressed her excitement about joining Apple, saying, “Like Apple, I’ve always believed in the power of innovation to improve lives, support human potential, and shape a better future. I’m honored to join Apple’s board of directors, and I look forward to being part of a company that’s always creating new ways to empower people all over the world.”
In addition to Dr. Austin’s appointment, Apple also announced that two long-standing board members, Al Gore and James Bell, will be retiring. Both Gore and Bell have made significant contributions to the company during their tenure.
“We’re deeply grateful to Al and James for their many years of service to Apple — their insights, energy, and values have made us a stronger company in so many ways,” said Cook. He highlighted Gore’s support for user privacy and his expertise on environmental and climate issues, as well as Bell’s dedication and expertise in audit and finance.
Dr. Wanda Austin’s impressive career spans several decades. She began her tenure at The Aerospace Corporation in 1979 and held various roles, including program management and major customer-facing systems management. From 2008 to 2016, she served as the organization’s president and CEO.
Dr. Austin’s leadership extends beyond The Aerospace Corporation. In 2018 and 2019, she served as the interim president of the University of Southern California. She also serves on the boards of Amgen and Chevron, where she holds the position of lead independent director. Dr. Austin’s passion for STEM education is evident, and she is a leading advocate in the field.
Her book, “Making Space: Strategic Leadership for a Complex World,” explores the leadership principles she has learned throughout her career as an engineer and space industry executive. Dr. Austin holds a bachelor’s degree in mathematics from Franklin & Marshall College, a master’s degree in civil engineering and mathematics from the University of Pittsburgh, and a Ph.D. in industrial and systems engineering from the University of Southern California.
With Dr. Austin’s appointment, Apple’s board of directors gains a seasoned leader with a deep understanding of technology and a commitment to making a positive impact on the world.
For additional details, please follow this link: https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2024/01/wanda-austin-to-join-apples-board-of-directors/
