Meet Keith Kenne, Director of Government Contracts. Based in Columbus, Mississippi, home of the Lakota UH-72 military helicopter, Keith has worked at Airbus U.S. Space & Defense since October 17, 2020.

In his role, Keith oversees a multi-billion-dollar portfolio supporting contracts for military helicopter and uncrewed aircraft programs, including the U.S. Army Lakota Contractor Logistics Support (CLS) Contract, Production Contract, USMC OTA Logistics Connector (MQ-72C), and various Flexrotor UAS contracts.

Before joining Airbus, Keith served as a Director of Contracts at Airbus Helicopters, Inc. (AHI) for eight years. Prior to that, he retired from the United States Air Force as a Lieutenant Colonel after more than two decades of active- duty service.

Keith’s military career began as a Nuclear Missile Launch Officer for the Minuteman III weapon system. Recognizing the importance of transferable expertise, Keith became interested in contracts and acquisitions, spending most of his career developing expertise in government contracting, command, and leadership roles, experience that transitioned seamlessly into a private sector.

When asked what advice he would give someone starting out in the field, Keith emphasized ownership and visibility.

“Become an expert in your discipline and recognize that much of career progression is tied to visibility,” he said. “Lead from the front. Be an active contributor producing results that advance the company and support leadership objectives. Don’t isolate yourself; take initiatives or lead.”

Outside of work, Keith is deeply committed to his faith. He participates in foreign missions’ trips to Kenya to help build churches and Christian schools, and conducts weekly Bible studies at the local county jail in Mississippi.

As a younger man, he even appeared on the cover of a romance novel, a fun fact many colleagues may not know.

A key life-lesson Keith learned throughout his career is rooted in faith.

“All knowledge and wisdom come from God,” he shared. “If you lack wisdom, ask God, who gives generously. Any successes I’ve achieved or helped the company accomplish are credited to Him. When you’re challenged with something beyond your knowledge or experience, go to the source of all wisdom.”

As he looks ahead to retirement in July 2026, Keith reflects in a career shaped by service, leadership, faith, and purpose, both professionally and personally.