Speakers

Maj. Gen. James E. Smith is the Commander, Space Training and Readiness Command, headquartered at Patrick Space Force Base, Florida. As Commander he is responsible for preparing the U.S. Space Force and more than 14,000 military and civilian Guardians to prevail in competition and conflict through innovative education, training, doctrine and test activities. Originally from Boise, Idaho, Maj. Gen. Smith commissioned in 1997 as the top graduate of the U.S. Air Force Academy. His career spans numerous space operations and acquisition positions including command at the squadron, group, wing, garrison, and Field Command levels. His staff assignments include Headquarters, North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO); Headquarters, Air Force Space Command; the Air Staff; the Space Staff; and the Joint Staff. Maj. Gen. Smith has deployed to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and to the U.S. Embassy in Iraq in support of Operation Inherent Resolve. Prior to his current position, Maj. Gen. Smith served as the Vice Director, Joint Force Development, J-7, the Joint Staff, Washington D.C.