Named Bell's H-1 Program Director

Kevin Connell, a 25-year aerospace industry veteran has been named H-1 Program Director for Bell Helicopter. Connell, most recently Bell's Executive Director, Commercial Programs replaces Chris Becker, who has decided to leave Bell for another position in the aerospace industry.

Bell senior vice president, US Government and International Military Programs Terry Dake noted the great progress the H-1 program had made during the three years Becker was director, "during that time the program successfully entered the flight test portion of its development and is positioned to go forward into operational evaluation. Chris' leadership, organizational talents, and technical expertise have been instrumental in the forward movement of the H-1 program."

Prior to joining Bell Helicopter in 2002, Connell was employed by The Boeing Company for 18 years where he held various program management positions including Israeli Apache Program manager, Australia Air 87 Program manager, and senior program manager, USG Production Programs.

In his position as H-1 Program Director, Connell will have full responsibility for all aspects of the H-1 flight test program (EMD) and the Low-Rate Initial Production Program. The H-1 Program is a major upgrade to remanufacture the US Marine Corps fleet of AH-1W SuperCobra and UH-1N utility helicopters to an advanced configuration featuring common engines and flight dynamics.  The program involves 100 UH-1N and 180 AH-1W SuperCobra helicopters. Upon completion, the AH-1W will become the AH-1Z and the UH-1N will become the UH-1Y.

Originally from Upstate New York, Connell served in the US Air Force where he performed maintenance and flight operations on F-4C Phantom fighters. He received a BS in Professional Aeronautics from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University where he graduated Summa Cum Laude. Connell also holds a Masters of Aeronautical Science from ERAU. Connell is a certified fixed wing multi-engine pilot with CFI and CFII licenses. 

Connell and his wife Debbie have five children.

FMI: www.bellhelicopter.textron.com