ADVERTISEMENTs

Space Force Association appoints Vidhu Shekhar as deputy vice president of chapter operations

He most recently served as government strategy leader at Microsoft.

Vidhu Shekhar / Space Force Association

The Space Force Association (SFA), a Colorado-based non-profit that supports the United States Space Force has appointed Vidhu Shekhar as deputy vice president of chapter operations. 

In his new role, Shekhar will lead SFA fostering innovation and collaboration with U.S. state and local governments to enhance digital transformation, cybersecurity, and equitable access to public services.

Also read: Heald appoints Neal Patel as strategic advisor

Originally from Jamshedpur, India, Shekhar brings with him a distinguished background in public sector leadership and national security, most recently serving as government strategy leader at Microsoft. In that role, he led strategic engagements with federal and public sector stakeholders, helping to advance technology-driven public service. His prior roles at Workday and KPMG further demonstrate his depth in acquisition strategy, mission-oriented integration, and cross-sector collaboration.

Beyond his professional achievements, Shekhar is a well-known contributor to the civic and academic space. He serves on several advisory boards, including those of the University of Southern California’s Sacramento Center, the University of Washington’s Mobility Innovation Center, and the Technology Industry Association for California (TechCA). 

He also participates in national policy efforts, including his role on a Transportation Cooperative Research Program (TCRP) project panel funded by the National Academy of Sciences, Engineering & Medicine (NASEM). Additionally, he contributes to the National Institute of Standards and Technology’s (NIST) Generative AI Public Working Group.

Commenting on his new role, Shekhar said“I'm honored to join the Space Force Association as deputy vice president for chapter operations. The SFA plays a vital role in advancing U.S. spacepower by connecting military, industry, and academic leaders across the country. I’m excited to support chapter growth and engagement efforts that help amplify the voices of Guardians and space professionals nationwide.” 

“Vidhu’s roles at Workday & KPMG combined with his deep expertise in federal and SLED acquisition strategy, mission-focused technology integration, and stakeholder alignment make him uniquely equipped to help SFA scale our chapter operations and deepen our impact across the space defense ecosystem,” said Jack Smith, vice president of chapter operations at SFA.

An advocate for responsible technology in governance, Shekhar is the author of Generative Artificial Intelligence Use Cases in State & Local Government, a practical guide to AI adoption in public administration.

Comments

Related