Dr. Catherine Kilmain was named Senior Vice President of Engineering for Bell Helicopter in August 2013 and is a member of Bell Helicopter’s Executive Leadership Team.
In her current role, Cathy leads the Engineering organization and is responsible for providing strategic direction for designing, developing and integrating technologies for use in Bell Helicopter’s current and next generation products.
Previously, Cathy was the Vice President of Xworx and Research, Development, Test and Evaluation for Bell Helicopter. She joined Bell Helicopter in 1997. In this position Cathy was responsible for developing and tracking emerging technologies, including basic research through concept development, rapid prototyping and testing. She also oversaw the successful execution of all technology and manufacturing development programs at Bell Helicopter including all aircraft test and evaluation programs.
She is a recipient of the prestigious Francois Xavier Bagnoud Award, which is presented to an American Helicopter Society (AHS) member under the age of 30 who has made a significant contributon to the advancement of the rotorcraft industry. She has also earned the Harry T. Jensen award for her work supporting Rotorcraft Damage Tolerance efforts. Cathy is a member of the Expanding Your Horizons program, which is designed to encourage young women to pursue careers in science and engineering.
Cathy received her Master of Science and Ph.D. in aerospace engineering from Georgia Tech, and her Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering from Syracuse University. She is an active member of the American Helicopter Society where she served as the Deputy Director of Vehicle Integrity on the Technical Council and currently serves as the Southwest Director at Large on the Board of Directors.
