Jeff Forrest, chair of MSU Denver’s Department of Aviation and Aerospace Science, has been named to the Colorado Division of Aeronautics board of directors.

Gov. John Hickenlooper has appointed Jeff Forrest, chair of MSU Denver’s Department of Aviation and Aerospace Science, to the Colorado Division of Aeronautics board of directors.

The division, which is part of the Colorado Department of Transportation, was created in 1988 and is responsible for aviation development in Colorado. It promotes partnering with its public and private constituents to enhance aviation safety, aviation education and the development of an effective air transportation system through the administration of the Colorado Aviation Fund.

Members of the board represent specific statewide aviation interests. Forrest, whose term runs from this month through December 2015, says he will represent airport government agencies and stakeholders for the Colorado Eastern Slope area.

“I was selected due to my background in the industry (both as a pilot and aerospace employee), my academic background and my current position at the University,” he says. “Of prime interest to the board is my ability to help leverage Colorado as a leader in both aviation and commercial space (aerospace) development.”

Forrest holds several degrees, including a Ph.D. in computer and information science and two master’s degrees in aviation management and space systems integration management. He is a 1991 graduate of MSU Denver’s professional pilot program.