Scott A. McLaughlin
Scott A. McLaughlin, Executive Director, Spaceport America
Scott A. McLaughlin is a highly experienced engineer and executive with a diverse background in both design and business. He has worked in both the private and government sectors and has traveled around the world installing, maintaining, and marketing specialized wind radar systems.
His innovative designs support space launch, test ranges, aviation operations, weather service networks, atmospheric research, pollution studies, and shipboard‑based wind measurements. Users include NASA, NOAA, DOE, the U.S. Army, U.S. Navy, U.S. Air Force, universities, and customers in Spain, Taiwan, India, UAE, Thailand, Kuwait, Mexico, Samoa, and Colombia.
Having worked on both sides of the negotiating table, McLaughlin understands the challenges and advantages of both private business and government operations. As a technical innovator, founder, and executive of a new business unit, he appreciates the trials of entrepreneurial companies seeking funding while working to “cross the chasm.”
His government experience includes work with the White Sands Missile Range, NASA Johnson Space Center, and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration in Boulder, Colorado. Now with the State of New Mexico, he embraces the responsibility of honoring taxpayer‑funded activities.
McLaughlin was born and raised in New Mexico. After graduating from New Mexico State University with a B.S. in Electrical Engineering, he moved to Texas and then Colorado, where he established a radar design and manufacturing business. After being acquired by a similar company and spending 25 years away, he returned to New Mexico to work and enjoy the Chihuahuan Desert and surrounding mountains.
With a lifelong love of space and aviation, Scott found a dream role as Director of Business Development at Spaceport America. In March 2021, he was selected as the new Executive Director of Spaceport America.