Kelly Ortberg: Boeing's New Captain

Kelly Ortberg, the former Rockwell Collins CEO, is set to lead Boeing amid a challenging period. Ortberg’s diverse background in engineering and aerospace, combined with his outsider status, makes him an intriguing fit. Bringing a wealth of industry experience, his tenure begins on August 8, 2023.

Kelly Ortberg, the former Rockwell Collins boss tapped to lead Boeing, brings a unique blend of expertise and fresh perspective to the company. Unencumbered by Boeing's past but well-versed in the aerospace industry, Ortberg's task list is daunting as he emerges from retirement on August 8.

Ortberg aims to fortify Boeing's relationships with airline customers and rebuild trust with regulators and lawmakers, following a safety crisis sparked by a mid-air panel blowout. His leadership at Rockwell Collins, including its integration with United Technologies and RTX, showcases his ability to navigate complex technical landscapes.

Despite some reservations about his age and time away from a CEO role, many industry stakeholders hold Ortberg in high regard. His appointment has been seen as a positive move to restore Boeing’s prominence as America’s leading aerospace company. Lawmakers and analysts, however, remain cautious as they await the impact of this leadership change.