JFCC SPACE officials named associate fellows by AIAA

by Maj. Larry van der Oord
14th Air Force Public Affairs

11/14/2013 - VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif.  -- Two senior officials from the Joint Functional Component Command for Space staff at Vandenberg Air Force Base, Calif., were designated associate fellows by the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics Nov. 5, 2013.

U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Timothy Coffin, JFCC SPACE deputy commander, and James Rendleman, supervising attorney-advisor on operations, space and international law for JFCC SPACE, were two of 165 associate fellows in the AIAA class of 2014.

The AIAA is the world's largest technical society dedicated to the aerospace profession. Created in 1963 by the merger of the two great aerospace societies of the day, the American Rocket Society and the Institute of the Aerospace Sciences, the AIAA carries forth a tradition of more than 80 years of aerospace leadership.

"The individuals comprising this year's class of associate fellows represent outstanding achievement and leadership in the international aerospace community. Each can be very proud of their accomplishments, and their admittance to the rank," said Mike Griffin, AIAA president. "Their creativity, ingenuity and relentless pursuit of excellence have ignited the spark of progress within our community, and each helps make our world better for all humanity."

To be selected for the grade of associate fellow, individuals must be an AIAA senior member for at least 12 months prior to the deadline nomination with at least 12 years professional experience. Additionally, members must be recommended by a minimum of three current associate fellows.

In his current role at JFCC SPACE, Coffin works to synchronize space operational-level planning, integration and coordination to ensure unity of effort in support of military and national security operations, and support to civil authorities.

"It's a great honor to be named an AIAA associate fellow, especially while serving here at JFCC SPACE," said Coffin. "I have great appreciation for AIAA's commitment to the advancement of aerospace science, engineering, technology, operations and policy to benefit our global society."

Rendleman, a retired U.S. Air Force colonel, is a member of the State Bar of California and an elected member of the International Institute of Space Law. He has published a number of articles on space law and policy, systems acquisition, international cooperation, command and control, the importance of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, or STEM, education, and rocket propellants.

"The American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics provides wonderful opportunities for scientists, engineers and plain old space policy wonks to improve their professionalism, expertise and stay connected with colleagues throughout the aerospace community," said Rendleman. "I'm very glad I've been a member all these years."