General David Hicks (ret.) served 30 years as an Air Force fighter pilot and General Officer.  Dave retired as a Brigadier General working at the Air Force HQ Staff in the Pentagon.  As the Director of Strategy, Concepts and Assessments, he was responsible for developing and synchronizing Air Force Strategy and Strategic Planning efforts and the assessment of planning products with strategic guidance.  

General Hicks graduated from the U.S. Air Force Academy in 1989 with a degree in Engineering Mechanics.  He also holds a Masters Degree in Systems Engineering.  Dave has commanded at the squadron, group and wing levels, including two combat command tours leading multinational and multi-service forces.  His duty history includes multiple combat air forces flying assignments including serving as an instructor and commander at the U.S. Air Force Weapons School.  General Hicks is a command pilot with over 3800 hours and over 125 combat missions.  He has participated in Operations Southern Watch, Iraqi Freedom, Enduring Freedom, and Resolute Support.

Dave’s most recent combat command assignment was as the commander of all U.S. and NATO forces tasked with training, advising and assisting the building of the Afghanistan Air Force.  His full Air Force biography can be found here. 

General Hicks has broad experience as a Senior Executive Leader with a successful history of solving tough problems and leading organizations through difficult situations.  Dave is passionate about building teams, coaching/mentoring future leaders, and sharing his leadership experiences to help others grow.  He is a Bombardier Global 600 Pilot and Strategy/Wargaming consultant to the Air Force.  Dave also serves on the Board of Directors for the Team 5 Medical Foundation.