LSMV Newsletter | September

Leadership Santa Maria Valley Explores the Final Frontier at Vandenberg

Space Force Base

The Leadership Santa Maria Valley (LSMV) Class of 2026 had the opportunity to

take an in-depth tour of Vandenberg Space Force Base (VSFB) — a hub of

national security, space innovation, and scientific exploration. This immersive

experience gave class members a behind-the-scenes look at the dynamic

operations that take place on one of the nation’s most strategically significant

military installations.

The day began with a visit to the NASA Mission Control Center, where Daye

Hoffman delivered an insightful mission brief. His presentation provided a

firsthand look into NASA’s ongoing operations at VSFB, with a focus on upcoming

launches and how this unique partnership with the Department of Defense

supports national and international space missions.

Next, the group toured Firefly Aerospace, a cutting-edge commercial space

company launching from VSFB. Team members learned about Firefly’s growing

role in the private space sector and the company’s commitment to building cost-

effective, reliable rockets for small to medium payload launches. The tour offered

an up-close view of the engineering and technology behind modern rocket design

and launch operations.

During lunch, the class was honored to receive a Space Launch Delta 30 (SLD

30) Mission Brief from Colonel Dorian Hatcher, Deputy Commander of

Operations at SLD 30. His overview highlighted the base’s pivotal role in missile

defense, space launch operations, and support for both governmental and

commercial partners.

The afternoon transitioned into a deeper dive into national defense capabilities

with a TEG Mission Brief focused on Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM)

operations. Major Tyler Carr, Captain Jessica Zetina, and Master Sergeant

Sanderson Conway provided an overview of the training, strategy, and

operational readiness required to support these critical missions.

The final stop of the day took the class to North Base for a tour of the Missile

Alert Facility, led by Captain Mitchel Baugh. This secure and highly specialized

installation is integral to the monitoring and command of missile systems. The

tour provided a tangible understanding of the infrastructure and personnel

required to maintain constant vigilance and operational readiness.

Throughout the day, the LSMV class was consistently inspired by the

professionalism, innovation, and strategic vision of everyone they encountered.

From commercial rocket development to defense readiness, the experience at

Vandenberg Space Force Base offered a powerful reminder of the region’s vital

role in shaping the future of space and national defense.

As always, the LSMV program is grateful for the access and hospitality provided

by the staff at VSFB and for the opportunity to connect with leaders at the

forefront of aerospace and defense.