1971 AAE Distinguished Engineering Alumnus

Walter D. Smith

General Manager, Space Re-Entry Systems Department
Re-Entry and Environmental Systems Division
General Electric Company
BSAE ’43

Mr. Smith is responsible for directing programs in military space re-entry, recoverable scientific satellites, space defense and development of applications of space/defense technology for non-space uses. His work involves contracts totaling $140 million. Mr. Smith and his organization have successfully recovered from orbit more spacecraft and vehicles than the remainder of the free world combined.