Apple’s decision to appoint Wanda Austin to its board of directors is important. It shows that Apple is focused on having a diverse board and hints at the company’s future direction.
In case you didn’t hear, Apple chose Wanda Austin, who used to be the president and CEO of The Aerospace Corporation, to join its board. She will fill the seats left vacant as current board members Al Gore and James Bell retire due to reaching the age of 75. (Austin is 69.)
Who is Wanda Austin?
Austin is a very successful woman with lots of experience in science and technology. She has worked in the US space program for many years. When she became CEO of The Aerospace Corporation, she was the first woman and first African American to do so.
She also serves on the boards of Chevron and Amgen. She used to be on the board of Virgin Galactic, but she left that position on August 24, 2023. Additionally, she is currently serving as the interim President of the University of Southern California.
She is known worldwide for her work in aeronautics and systems engineering and has won many awards in the industry. She helped start MakingSpace, a consulting firm focused on systems engineering and leadership development.
She was part of President Barack Obama’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology until January 2017. This group advised on topics where knowledge of science, technology, and innovation was important for making good US policies.
She also served on the Defense Policy Board and was on the Defense Science Board and the NASA Advisory Council in the past. She strongly supports STEM education.
What did Apple say?
“Having Wanda join our board is a big deal,” said Apple CEO Tim Cook. “She’s been working for years to advance technology for the good of people, and we’re excited to have her on board. She’s a great leader, and her experience will help us with our goal of making the world a better place.”
“I’ve always believed in the power of innovation, just like Apple does,” said Austin. “I’m excited to join their board and be part of a company that’s always finding new ways to help people worldwide.”
What could it mean?
While it might not seem obvious, the link between Apple’s new board member and the company’s satellite communication work could be important. The recent events in Ukraine have highlighted the importance of reliable satellite communication for national security. This is why Wanda Austin’s connections in US defense policy are significant.
Apple has invested a lot of money in projects like Global Star and Emergency SOS by Satellite on iPhones. Recently, SpaceX demonstrated sending and receiving text messages via satellites, and Apple holds patents for satellite-based services. If Apple expands its satellite services, it could have implications for national and international interests. With Austin’s help, Apple could become a trusted partner for national communication needs as satellite communication technology evolves.
Plenty of synchronicity
Austin’s expertise in science, engineering, national policy, and STEM education align well with Apple’s current initiatives. She will likely support the company’s efforts to educate future software engineers.
In other news, Apple announced its Q1 ’24 results will be released on February 1, and its annual investors meeting will be held later in the month. It was also revealed that Cook earned $63.2 million in 2023, which is $36 million less than the previous year but still significantly higher than the average salary of US Apple employees.
