WASHINGTON — The White House has officially nominated Matthew Anderson, a former Air Force officer and a strong advocate for the Space Force, to serve as the new deputy administrator of NASA. This announcement was formally transmitted to the Senate on May 6, yet it did not receive widespread media coverage until it was highlighted in a social media post by the Space Force Association on May 7, where Anderson serves as chief growth officer.
Anderson boasts an impressive military background, having served in the Air Force for 24 years before retiring as a colonel in 2021. His career includes roles as a pilot and instructor, culminating in his final assignment as the senior liaison officer to U.S. Space Command, NORAD, and U.S. Northern Command from U.S. Transportation Command. Following his departure from the Air Force, Anderson transitioned to the private sector, taking up a position as vice president at CACI International, where he worked as the Space Force and Air Force client executive.
In addition to his corporate role, Anderson has held several key positions at the Space Force Association, a nonprofit organization dedicated to advocating for the Space Force. His nomination has come as a surprise to some within the space industry; many anticipated that the White House would select a candidate with more extensive experience at NASA, particularly to complement Jared Isaacman, who has been nominated as NASA administrator but also has limited experience with the agency.
In a statement released on May 7, NASA's acting administrator, Janet Petro, expressed confidence in Anderson's nomination, suggesting that his diverse background outside of NASA could serve as a significant advantage. “If confirmed, he would join NASA’s leadership team at a time when partnerships and a sharpened focus on mission are essential to our continued success,” Petro stated. She further emphasized that alongside President Trump’s nominee, Isaacman, Anderson would enhance collaboration across various sectors, aiding NASA in advancing exploration and delivering results that benefit the American public.
Anderson and Isaacman share a professional relationship; in his capacity at the Space Force Association, Anderson interviewed Isaacman during the organization’s Spacepower Conference in December. This event occurred shortly after Trump announced his intent to nominate Isaacman as administrator. Although the interview did not address the nomination directly, they discussed key themes surrounding American competitiveness in space and the role of commercial space ventures.
On social media, Anderson has actively supported Isaacman’s nomination, advocating for swift confirmation. “We need ‘Rook’ confirmed as soon as possible!” he remarked in a post that addressed an article featuring endorsements from former astronauts backing Isaacman’s nomination.
