Cogs of War Rockets, Politics, and Power: A Conversation with Tory Bruno of ULA
Sep 24, 2025
Tory Bruno, the President and CEO of United Launch Alliance, shares his insights from decades in aerospace and defense. He discusses the competitive dynamics of the launch industry and ULA's strategic pivot to counter challenges from SpaceX. Bruno dives into the importance of assured access to space amid rising geopolitical tensions, and how the supply chain is becoming increasingly domestic. He also highlights the integration of artificial intelligence into operations and shares personal anecdotes about his mentors from World War II.
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Moonwatching Sparked A Career
- Tory Bruno traces his interest in rocketry to watching Neil Armstrong step onto the Moon as a child.
- He later worked as an astronomer's assistant at Lick Observatory studying galaxy rotation.
From Rocket Scientist To Manager
- Tory Bruno started at Lockheed Martin in 1984 working on the Fleet Ballistic Missile program.
- He spent about a decade as a hands-on rocket scientist before reluctantly moving into management.
Mentors From World War II Shaped Purpose
- Bruno recalls mentors who were WWII veterans and how their service gave perspective on the importance of defense work.
- He credits these leaders for instilling dedication and seriousness about saving lives through deterrence.
