General James Hecker, USAF (Ret.)

Principal

Former Commander of the U.S. Air Forces in Europe, U.S. Air Forces in Africa, and Allied Air Command, U.S. Air Force

General James Hecker (ret.) is a Principal at WestExec and a retired Air Force General with over 36 years of experience in aircraft, space, and missile operations.

Before retiring in 2025, Jim held the positions of Commander of U.S. Air Forces in Europe, Commander of U.S. Air Forces Africa, and Commander of Allied Air Command, headquartered at Ramstein Air Base, Germany. He commanded eight times across various levels including squadron, group, wing, numbered air force, and major command.

Jim modernized NATO airpower for the 21st century by integrating new members, pioneering tactics, and improving readiness. He adopted cost-effective technologies like sUAS, counter sUAS, and acoustic sensor networks, enhancing airpower effectiveness. He ensured timely delivery of military aid to Ukraine, strengthening their defense and supporting allied security.

Jim was commissioned in 1989 through the U.S. Air Force Academy. He served as Commander and President of Air University, Deputy Director J3 on the joint staff, Commander of NATO Air Command-Afghanistan, and Commander of the 19th Air Force. He holds an MS in Aeronautical Sciences from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and an MS in Strategic Studies from Air War College and attended the Harvard Seminar for New Presidents at Harvard University. As a command pilot, he has logged over 3,700 flying hours in the F-15C, F-22, MQ-1B, and other aircraft.