Mark D. Vaught is an accomplished aviation professional, Lieutenant Colonel in the Michigan Air National Guard, and First Officer with United Airlines, bringing more than 26 years of military and civilian aviation experience to his work as a pilot, educator, and mentor. His career spans command and control operations, air mobility, flight instruction, and international airline operations, with qualifications on multiple military and commercial aircraft platforms. A graduate of Eastern Michigan University with a Bachelor of Science in Aviation Management Technology, Mark is passionate about inspiring the next generation of aviation and aerospace professionals through youth STEM initiatives focused on drones, model rocketry, aerospace education, and career exploration. Through leadership, mentorship, and hands-on learning opportunities, he is dedicated to helping students discover pathways to successful careers in aviation, engineering, and STEM fields.