Greg Autry: A Visionary Leader Nominated as NASA’s Chief Financial Officer

On March 24, 2025, President Donald Trump nominated Dr. Greg Autry to serve as the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of NASA, a pivotal role responsible for managing the agency’s $25 billion budget dedicated to missions spanning from the Moon to Mars. Acting Administrator Janet Petro expressed enthusiasm for Autry’s nomination, highlighting his prior experience as the White House liaison during President Trump’s first administration and his extensive background in space policy. She emphasized the importance of collaboration to maximize efficiencies, refine processes, and ensure effective stewardship of taxpayer dollars.​

A Storied Career in Space Policy and Entrepreneurship

Dr. Greg Autry is a distinguished figure in the realms of space policy, entrepreneurship, and academia. As the Associate Provost for Space Commercialization and Strategy at the University of Central Florida (UCF), he leads initiatives to integrate space-related ventures into the university’s academic and research programs. His role at UCF underscores his commitment to fostering the next generation of space industry leaders.​

Autry’s academic journey is marked by significant contributions to space commerce and policy. He served as the Director of Space Leadership, Policy, and Business at the Thunderbird School of Global Management at Arizona State University, where he established the world’s first degree program dedicated to the business of space. His tenure at the University of Southern California and the University of California, Irvine, further reflects his dedication to educating future entrepreneurs and policymakers in the aerospace sector.​

Beyond academia, Dr. Autry is a serial entrepreneur with ventures that include HAL Labs, Dr. Micro, Wired Images, Network Corps, and 121C. These enterprises span various industries, from game development to healthcare applications, showcasing his versatility and innovative spirit.​

Contributions to Space Policy and Advocacy

Dr. Autry’s influence extends into governmental and advisory roles. During the 2016–2017 presidential transition, he was a member of the NASA Agency Review Team, tasked with evaluating the agency and making policy recommendations to the incoming administration. His insights were instrumental in shaping the Trump administration’s space policy, which emphasized returning to the Moon and expanding NASA’s budget. He also briefly served as the White House Liaison at NASA, further solidifying his relationship with the agency.​

In 2018, Autry was appointed to the Commercial Space Transportation Advisory Committee (COMSTAC) at the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), where he chaired the Safety Working Group. His leadership in this role contributed to the development of safety protocols for commercial spaceflight, balancing innovation with public safety concerns.​

As Vice President for Space Development at the National Space Society (NSS), Dr. Autry advocates for policies that promote space exploration and settlement. His work with NSS reflects his belief in humanity’s future among the stars and the importance of public-private partnerships in achieving this vision.​

Authorship and Thought Leadership

Dr. Autry is also a prolific author and thought leader. His publications include “Death by China,” co-authored with Peter Navarro, which critiques China’s trade practices and their impact on global economies. His latest work, “Red Moon Rising: How America Will Beat China on the Final Frontier,” published in April 2024, delves into the geopolitical dynamics of space exploration and underscores the strategic importance of maintaining American leadership in space.​

His writings are frequently featured in esteemed outlets such as Foreign Policy, Forbes, and SpaceNews, where he discusses topics ranging from space commerce to international trade policy. His ability to bridge the gap between complex policy discussions and public understanding has made him a respected voice in the field.​

The Role of NASA’s Chief Financial Officer

As NASA’s CFO, Dr. Autry will oversee the agency’s financial operations, ensuring that its $25 billion budget is allocated effectively across various missions. This role is critical in advancing NASA’s objectives, including lunar and Martian exploration, scientific research, and technological innovation.​

Acting Administrator Janet Petro emphasized the significance of this position, stating, “The NASA CFO is responsible for executing more than $25 billion in agency funding across a variety of missions, including the Moon and Mars, for the benefit of humanity.” She expressed confidence in Autry’s ability to enhance efficiencies and uphold the agency’s commitment to fiscal responsibility.​

A Vision for the Future

Dr. Autry’s nomination comes at a pivotal time for NASA, as the agency seeks to expand its presence in space and foster collaborations with commercial partners. His extensive experience in both the public and private sectors positions him uniquely to navigate the complexities of space policy and finance.​

In a March 19 speech at the American Astronautical Society’s Goddard Space Science Symposium, Autry highlighted the need for NASA to adapt to fiscal realities by exploring innovative partnerships. He suggested that researchers collaborate with companies developing satellite constellations to host scientific instruments, thereby maximizing resources and advancing scientific discovery.​

Conclusion

Dr. Greg Autry’s nomination as NASA’s Chief Financial Officer reflects a strategic choice to leverage his vast experience in space policy, entrepreneurship, and academia. His leadership is expected to drive efficiencies within the agency, foster innovation, and ensure that NASA remains a responsible steward of taxpayer funds. As the agency embarks on ambitious missions to the Moon, Mars, and beyond, Autry’s vision and expertise will be invaluable assets in navigating the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.