Aero Club of Southern California to Honor Neal Blue With the 46th Annual Howard Hughes Memorial Award
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EL SEGUNDO, Calif., July 31, 2025 -- The Aero Club of Southern California is proud to announce Neal Blue, Chairman & CEO of General Atomics (GA) will be honored with the prestigious 46th annual Howard Hughes Memorial Award during its annual gala celebration taking place on Tuesday, October 28, 2025 at the Los Angeles Airport Marriott.
The Howard Hughes Memorial Award, presented annually by the Aero Club of Southern California, honors individuals who have made significant and lasting impacts in the aerospace industry. Past recipients include industry giants such as Neil Armstrong, Jim Lovell, Eren Ozmen, Elon Musk, Capt. 'Sully' Sullenberger, and General Charles E. Yeager. Blue's selection reflects his transformative influence and dedication to pushing the boundaries of technology and aerospace.
Based in San Diego, GA is an internationally diversified private enterprise with over 15,000 employees. Under Blue's guidance, General Atomics has become a global leader in unmanned aerial systems, nuclear energy, and advanced technologies that have reshaped modern aviation and defense. General Atomics Aeronautical produces unmanned aircraft, electro-optical, radar, signals intelligence and automated airborne ISR systems. His pioneering work in developing the Predator and Reaper unmanned aircraft systems revolutionized military and intelligence operations, providing critical capabilities for global security.
Additionally, General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems produces Navy aircraft carrier electromagnetic launch and recovery systems, submarine components, space satellite, laser, optical communications, advanced projectile, and power conversion systems.
General Atomics Intelligence provides multi domain data to knowledge analytics for delivering high fidelity graphic intelligence and predictive analysis. Its energy technologies include next generation nuclear fission, and US DOE sponsored magnetic and inertial confinement fusion programs.
Neal Blue graduated from Yale, is a pilot, and served in the U.S. Air Force. Neal Blue was featured in Life Magazine, with his brother, for having flown a single engine aircraft around South America. Subsequently, he developed a cocoa and banana plantation in Nicaragua.
"Neal Blue's leadership and vision have propelled General Atomics to the forefront of aerospace innovation," said Suzanne Fuentes, Aero Club of Southern California President. "His contributions have not only advanced technology but also strengthened national security and global stability. We are honored to present Mr. Blue with the 2025 Howard Hughes Memorial Award."
About the Aero Club of Southern California
The Aero Club of Southern California is a 501(c)3 led by volunteer Officers and Board members. ACSC is dedicated to promoting aviation and aerospace in Southern California. The club fosters innovation and recognizes excellence in the industry through events, scholarships, and awards. ACSC membership is open to everyone with an interest in aerospace and aviation.
SOURCE Aero Club of Southern California