Development, John Schoeppner’s career spanned some 45 years working issues contributing to the defense of the United States and allies worldwide. Schoeppner graduated from the University of Pittsburgh in 1960 with a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, and the University of Colorado with a master’s degree in aeronautical engineering in 1962. Further, he is a graduate of USAF pilot training, F-105 combat crew training and the USAF test pilot course at Edwards Air Force Base in California. Schoeppner is also a graduate of the Department of Defense Systems Management College, Harvard’s John F. Kennedy School of Government program for national and international security, the Air War College, and the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Officer War Fighting Course. Schoeppner’s military assignments included: USAF Weapons Laboratory nuclear weapons blast effects project manager, Kirtland AFB, New Mexico; F-105 fighter pilot, Kadena AB, Okinawa and Takhli AB, Thailand; A-7D weapons test program manager, Eglin AFB, Florida; USAF Test Pilot School chief of training and resources, chief of maintenance quality control, and deputy commander, 6512th Test Squadron, Edwards AFB; chief of USAF tactical requirements, Pentagon, Washington, D.C.; commander, 3246th Test Wing and vice commander Armament Division, Eglin AFB; deputy director, operational test and evaluation, Office of the Secretary of Defense, Pentagon; Air Force Systems Command deputy chief of staff plans and systems, Andrews AFB, Maryland; with a final assignment as Commanding General, USAF Flight Test Center, Edwards AFB. Schoeppner’s military awards, decorations and achievements include: Distinguished Service Medal (2), Legion of Merit (2), Distinguished Flying Cross, Air Medal (12), Meritorious Service Medal, and Commendation Medal (2). During a 31 year AF career, he amassed over 3,000 hours flying multiple aircraft, including 154 combat missions in the F-105 fighter bomber operating from Thailand against enemy targets in North Vietnam and Laos. Schoeppner’s work as AF Flight Test Center commander was singled out for recognition by Aviation Week and Space Technology with the journal’s Laurel Award in 1990 and 2005. Schoeppner joined the Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control organization (formerly Martin Marietta) in November 1991 as director, International Business Development. Specifically, he developed markets for airborne infrared targeting systems, air combat maneuvering systems, tactical reconnaissance systems and munitions across the globe. Key venues for such sales were the major air shows of the world. Schoeppner has been involved in a variety of professional memberships and associations, including The Cosmos Club, Washington, D.C., Society of Experimental Test Pilots, and the Military Officers Association of America. He has also been a member of the Air Force Association, American Legion, Air War College Alumni Association as well as the North Catholic High School Alumni Association, Order of the Daedalians, Military Order of the Carabao, and the University of Pittsburgh Alumni Association. John is married to Martha Monagan-Hart, PhD, LCSW. Jointly, they have five children and 11 grandchildren.
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