Paul Allen Names New Head Honcho for Stratolaunch

DoD Veteran Tasked with Bringing Revolutionary Launch System Online

SEATTLE, Wash. — Vulcan Inc., the investment and project management company founded by Paul G. Allen, today announced that Charles Beames has joined Vulcan as the Executive Director, Stratolaunch. Beames brings a unique combination of leadership and expertise in space and military systems, engineering, legislative affairs and business. Beames’ 30-year legacy in the Department of Defense includes the development and deployment of transformational airborne, ground- and space-based systems. In his new role, Beames will be responsible for creating and executing the strategic plan to realize Paul Allen’s vision of revolutionizing space transportation. He will provide overall technical leadership, project oversight and business development, all to ensure key milestones and program objectives are met.

Prior to joining Vulcan, Beames was a member of the Senior Executive Service and last served as the Principal Director, Space and Intelligence to the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology and Logistics, where he provided acquisition and technical oversight of a $90B space portfolio for the U.S. Department of Defense. In this role, his notable achievements include restructuring space launch acquisitions to ensure a more competitive and commercially viable industry and overseeing the acquisition restructuring of the Global Positioning System (GPS) constellation to ensure future operating ability.

“I’m excited to welcome Chuck to my executive leadership team,” said Paul Allen. “His experience and passion for space make him an invaluable asset, and he’ll play a key role in overseeing our progress in the next stage of development and the transition to full operations.”

“Stratolaunch is the next step in America’s drive for even more viable and flexible commercial space transportation and is positioned to transform orbital access with its innovative air-launch system,” said Beames. “I’m honored to join Vulcan at this critical moment and look forward to realizing Stratolaunch’s vision.”

A graduate of the U.S. Air Force Academy with degrees in engineering mechanics and material science, Beames also holds a Master of Science in mechanical engineering (thermal design) from Johns Hopkins University and a Master of Science degree in national security strategy from the National War College. Early in his career, he was designated a National Academy of Engineering “Top 100 Young Engineers in the U.S.” and is a recipient of both the Secretary of Defense Meritorious Civilian Service Award and the Defense Superior Service Medal.

About Vulcan Inc.
Vulcan Inc. creates and advances a variety of world-class endeavors and high-impact initiatives that change and improve the way people live, learn, do business and experience the world. Founded in 1986 by investor and philanthropist Paul G. Allen, and under the direction of President and CEO Jody Allen, Vulcan oversees various business and charitable projects including real estate holdings, investments in dozens of companies, including the Seattle Seahawks NFL, Seattle Sounders FC Major League Soccer, and Portland Trail Blazers NBA franchises, First & Goal Inc., the Seattle Cinerama theatre, Experience Music Project, the Science Fiction Museum & Hall of Fame, the Allen Institute for Brain Science and the Paul G. Allen Family Foundation. For more information, visit www.vulcan.com.