“I have spent the predominant part of my career working on systems that protect the nation and those in the armed services who put their lives at risk every day to further freedom. The opportunities afforded by my parents, mentors at Lockheed Martin and the faculty and staff of Purdue University have permitted me the honor of contributing toward making this world a safer place.”
Steve Kress graduated from Purdue in 1975 with a bachelor's degree in aeronautical and astronautical engineering. In 1976, he enrolled in graduate classes at the University of Texas at Arlington (UTA) to expand his knowledge in thermal sciences and fluid dynamics, leading to a master of science in aerospace engineering in 1981.
In 1975, he started his career at LTV Aerospace and Defense (now Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control) as a specialist in propulsion and thermodynamics. In 1997, he became Deputy Director for Combat Maneuver Systems; in 2000, Director, Advanced Concepts ; in 2004, Director of Advanced Concepts and Directed Energy ; and in 2005, director of activities supporting the Multiple Kill Vehicle Program.
In 2008, Kress became Director for Advanced Air and Missile Defense, responsible for new product development. Current thrusts include a miniature kinetic energy missile system supporting the Army's Indirect Fire Protection Capability, network-enabled air defense systems for domestic and international markets, and next-generation missiles for intermediate range air defense and air platform self-defense.