Matthew P. Anderson

Matthew P. Anderson is an aerospace executive and retired United States Air Force colonel who has served as the 16th deputy administrator of NASA since May 2026. He previously served as the Chief Growth Officer of the Space Force Association.

Early life and education Anderson graduated from the United States Air Force Academy with a Bachelor of Science degree in biology. He later earned a Master of Science in Aeronautical Science from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and a Master of Arts in Leadership and Counseling from the University of Colorado Colorado Springs.

Military career Anderson served in the U.S. Air Force for over 24 years, retiring as a colonel in October 2021. A trained pilot and instructor, he held various roles, including Senior Aide-de-Camp to the Commander of North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) and United States Northern Command from 2011 to 2013. His final assignment was as the senior liaison officer to United States Space Command, NORAD, and United States Northern Command for the United States Transportation Command from 2018 to 2021.

In 2024, Anderson was recognized by Washington Exec as one of the "Top Space Execs to Watch" for his contributions to the aerospace industry.

NASA Deputy Administrator

First nomination On May 6, 2025, President Donald Trump nominated Anderson to serve as the deputy administrator of NASA, the second-highest-ranking position in the agency, assisting the NASA administrator in leading the organization.