Announcements

  • RAeS Annual Assad Kotaite Lecture, 24 Nov 1900 EST

    Online Lecture: Grabbing that Dream by the Tail: Helping Youth to Achieve their Dream to Fly

    Register at: raes-montreal.org/AK2020



    Major General Mark Smith is the Civil Air Patrol’s Chief Executive Officer and 24th National Commander. Following an overview of the CAP, he will show how this organization is inspiring youth towards pursuing and achieving their dreams of flying. Illustrated by his personal journey, General Smith will share the power of mentorship in the lives of young people. He will describe how the CAP provides a broad range of opportunities for youth to explore Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)-related careers as well as opportunities for youth to fly. General Smith will also share lessons he has learned from leading a large organization during the global Coronavirus pandemic.

    Major General Smith was appointed by the Civil Air Patrol Board of Governors on June 18, 2017 and assumed command on September 2, 2017. In August 2019, General Smith accepted the Board of Governors’ offer to extend his three-year term as CEO/National Commander by an additional year. General Smith retired as a Colonel from the Air Force in 2000 after 26 years of service, followed by many years as a leader in the business world and other non-profit organizations.

    General Smith holds a Bachelor of Science in International Affairs from the U.S. Air Force Academy, a Master of Aviation in Management from Embry Riddle Aeronautical University, and a Doctor of Education in Ethical Leadership from Olivet Nazarene University. A resident of Albuquerque, New Mexico, General Smith is widowed, has two adult children and two granddaughters.