Eric Hein is the Vice President for Advanced Development and Space Programs at Spirit AeroSystems. He previously served as the Senior Director of Research and Technology where his team was responsible for the entire Spirit R&D portfolio, materials and processes, structures engineering, and test. Prior to Research and Technology, Hein served as Director of Strategic Programs. In this role he led development of innovative configuration and manufacturing approaches for next generation airframe and propulsion products, aligned to winning statement of work on new programs. He began his Spirit career in 2010, with responsibility for the Boeing propulsion products stress team, which later included the KC-46A tanker program. When Spirit started on the 737 MAX program, he was named propulsion senior engineering manager and propulsion chief engineer. During this time, Spirit successfully designed and built the 737 MAX pylon, pylon systems and thrust reversers in support of the Boeing Engine Development Program (EDP). In 2015, Hein served as director of the 737 MAX Propulsion Integrated Product Team, leading the team through initial production deliveries and rate readiness.Hein has been in the aviation industry for more than 20 years, having worked at Cessna and Boeing in engineering roles spanning from aerodynamics to structures. He joined Spirit after eight years at Cessna on the 208, 525A/B/C, 550, 560, 560XL, 650, 680 and 750 programs. During his time at Cessna, Eric obtained his private pilot license, six sigma certification and FAA ODA UM delegation for Part 23 and 25 aircraft in the areas of analysis, design and construction, and major repair/alterations. He also served as the ODA Unit Member for all Cessna part 25 jets in production.Hein holds Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees in aerospace engineering from Wichita State University.