Officers and Directors of the Lone Star Chapter

Jim Grant

Jim Grant is Director of Customer Engagement for the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter. In this position he leads a team with responsibility for F-35 aircraft and global sustainment orders, customer communication, and market strategies both domestically and internationally.

He joined the Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Company in 1995 after serving 26 years in the United States Air Force. His military career included numerous command and staff positions at the wing and headquarters Air Force level. He was a pilot with over 5,000 flight hours spanning a myriad of combat aircraft. Additionally, he played a key role in developing the USAF acquisition, budget, and legislative strategies for procurement of new air combat and air mobility aircraft.

Jim joined Lockheed Martin Aeronautical Systems Company in Marietta, Georgia in 1995 as part of the Business Development organization. He initially served as Director of Airlift Requirements, with responsibility for sales of the C-130J and the C-5 modernization program. In 1998 he became the Director of U.S. Government Requirements, adding the F-22, P-3, and S-3 to his portfolio. In 2001 he moved to Ft Worth, Texas and served three years as the Aeronautics Company’s Director of Market Development for USAF Programs. In addition to his current role in the F-35 program, Jim is also the Aeronautics Company Business Development lead for integration of all U.S. Government business activity.

Jim was born in Auburn, Alabama, in May 1947. He received his Bachelor's Degree from the University of North Alabama, his Master's degree at Pepperdine University, and completed the Executive Development Program at Goizuetz Business School, Emory University. Additionally, he is a graduate from both the U.S. Army and U.S. Air Force War Colleges. He has been published numerous times on defense and environmental related topics. Within the community, he serves on the Board of Directors of the Navy League and National Defense Industrial Association and is a state officer in the Air Force Association.

Jim and his wife, Dee, live in Colleyville, Texas.