Astrium Americas new president, Michael Kostelnik.

Astrium Americas was incorporated in July of 2012 and provides Astrium's most advanced telecommunications, geo-information, space transportation and satellite capabilities to U.S. and Canadian government customers.

Kostelnik, who served as NASA's Deputy Associate Administrator for the Space Shuttle and International Space Station from 2002 to 2005, will direct the development, growth, and management of all space-related activities in North America, expanding the company's market position in the sector. Prior to joining Astrium Americas, he has served in the Senior Executive Service with U.S. Customs and Border Protection since 2005 as Assistant Commissioner over the Office of Air and Marine.

Kostelnik replaces John Schumacher, who served in the same position. Prior to joining NASA in 2002, Kostelnik spent 32 years on active duty with the Air Force. He is a graduate of the Air Force Test Pilot School and has accumulated more than 3,300 flight hours in more than 40 types of aircraft. He has served as Commander of the Air Force Air Armament Center and Air Force Development and Test Center, as well as Vice Commander of the Air Force Materiel Command and Warner Robins Air Logistics Center. He also served a tour as Director of Special Program with the Office of the Secretary of Defense.

Kostelnik earned a Bachelor of Science degree in mechanical engineering from Texas A&M University and a Master of Science degree in industrial and management engineering from the University of Iowa.

He has been recognized with numerous awards, including the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, Air Force Distinguished Service Medal, Legion of Merit, Meritorious Service Medal with two oak leaf clusters, Air Force Commendation Medal with oak leaf cluster, and the NASA Medal for Outstanding Leadership.