Strong Applauds Mark McDaniel Appointment to Air Force Scientific Advisory Board

July 16, 2026 Press Release WASHINGTON — U.S. Representative Dale Strong congratulated Huntsville native Mark McDaniel on his appointment to the Department of the Air Force Scientific Advisory Board (DAF SAB). The Advisory Board provides independent advice and recommendations to Air Force leadership on science, technology, and modernization priorities affecting both the United States Air Force and United States Space Force. “Mark McDaniel’s appointment to the Scientific Advisory Board is a tremendous honor for both him and North Alabama,” said Representative Dale Strong. “Huntsville has long been at the forefront of our nation’s air, space, and missile defense capabilities, and Mark has played an important role in that legacy. His decades of leadership in aerospace, science, and national security make him exceptionally qualified to advise Air Force leadership on the challenges of tomorrow, and I am confident his expertise will help strengthen America’s technological edge for years to come.” “I am honored to join the Air Force Scientific Advisory Board and want to thank Congressman Strong and Secretary Hegseth for their faith in me. They are American patriots and work every day to strengthen our national defense,” said Mark McDaniel. “There is a lot of technology developed here in Alabama that can play a critical role for Golden Dome, Space Force, and the continued modernization of the Air Force, and I look forward to being a voice for that.” Appointment to the Scientific Advisory Board is reserved for distinguished leaders from industry, academia, and government with expertise in fields critical to the Department of the Air Force mission. Members are nominated by the Secretary of the Air Force and formally appointed by the Secretary of Defense to provide independent counsel on issues critical to maintaining America’s air and space superiority. McDaniel is a longtime Huntsville resident whose career has spanned law, education, and aerospace policy. He has served on the NASA Advisory Council under five NASA Administrators and contributed to numerous initiatives advancing science, technology, and education at both the state and national levels. In addition to his public service, McDaniel has dedicated years to higher education at The University of Alabama in Huntsville and Faulkner University, helping prepare the next generation of leaders. ###