John David Hnyda

About John David Hnyda

I am a dynamic and consistently excelling leader, former U.S. Army Lieutenant Colonel, with a diversified background which has enabled me to easily find comfort and conviction in ambiguous situations. I have an education in engineering, a background in aviation, and a wealth of experience in leading technologically advanced hardware from ideation to deployment-Leadership Experience: Over 25 years of direct leadership experience, within the military and tech startup environments. I have developed a robust and adaptive leadership style, through leading diverse teams ranging from a small group of PhDs in an academic-style, research environment to over 100 soldiers conducting geographically separated, aviation maintenance operations in a combat zone-Communication Skills: I have strong written & verbal communication skills honed through years of practical experience. From my time in college as an award-winning radio DJ and the basketball team student public announcer, to publicly addressing large groups of people in and out of the military, to my honed technical report writing skills as a test pilot… I have developed a keen ability to breaking down complex concepts, identify the intended audience, and succinctly deliver an easily digestible & powerful message-International Exposure: I have a wealth of international experience gained through working abroad for 5 years in South Korea, Germany, and the United Kingdom.Specialties-Aviation Research & Development-Aviation Test & Evaluation-Human/System Integration (I.e. UX/UI)-Airworthiness -Security ClearanceAircraft Qualifications-Flown over 30 aircraft types ranging from Helicopters to Jets to Gliders-Military Qualifications: OH-58A/C/D/F, Bell 407, CH-47D/Mk4/Mk5/Mk6, UH-60A/L, UH-72A, C-12-FAA Commercial Fixed Wing & Rotary License w/ Instrument Endorsement and Type Ratings in BE-200, BV-234, S-70

Experience

1. Experimental Test Pilot, Group 5 Vtol Aircraft

   Anduril Industries

   Jan 2026 — Present · US

Education

• Naval Postgraduate School

  Master of Science (MS)

• Auburn University

  Bachelor's of Science (BS)

• United States Naval Test Pilot School

  Experimental Flight Test (Class #139)

Skills

• Project Management
• Military Aviation
• Flight Test
• Risk Management
• Military Operations
• Risk Assessment
• Helicopters
• Dod
• National Security
• Operational Planning
• Simulations
• Leadership
• Security Clearance
• Military Experience
• Military
• Systems Engineering
• Defense
• Aircraft Maintenance
• Army
• Command
• Integration
• Testing
• Team Leadership
• U.s. Department of Defense