As an Aerospace Engineering student at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Troy Endicott (’94) balanced a rigorous academic schedule, Air Force ROTC and responsibilities as a resident advisor. Amid these challenges, he also cultivated a budding relationship with a fellow student that would turn into a happy marriage. At the time, he couldn’t have envisioned becoming a major general, let alone one of the first 12 general officers in the U.S. Space Force.
Today, Endicott serves as a two-star general and director of Global Space Operations at U.S. Space Command in Colorado Springs, Colorado. His wife, Tammy, who has been his steadfast partner for 30 years, remains one of his greatest inspirations.
On a visit to Embry-Riddle’s Prescott Campus to commission Air Force and Space Force officers, Endicott reflected on the future of the Space Force and its newest guardians.
“These young guardians have tons of ideas and see the future so clearly. It’s amazing to be part of the leadership team that helps shape their journey,” he says. “I serve predominantly for them. I can’t imagine what the Space Force will look like in 20 years, but I know it will be exciting.”
From his own experience, Endicott believes these graduates are well prepared to defend the nation’s interests in space. Reflecting on his 27-year Air Force career and three years in the Space Force, he recalled his initial goal: earning a military commission.
“I wasn’t sure what I wanted to study but knew I wanted to join the military, preferably the Air Force,” he says. “Embry-Riddle’s strong ROTC programs stood out. When I received scholarships from both the Air Force and Army ROTC on the same day, I chose the Air Force after a tough night of decision-making.”
Building Mental Toughness
Endicott credits his engineering studies with fostering resilience, problem-solving skills and an ability to tackle complex challenges. These traits proved invaluable during four combat deployments, multiple commands and working on early drone programs and U-2 reconnaissance aircraft.
“Engineering taught me that hard work pays off, and even the toughest endeavors are achievable with the right peer and mentorship networks,” he says.
As a resident advisor, Endicott honed his leadership skills by mentoring students through academic struggles and personal challenges.
“I counseled students through relationship ups and downs, advocated for them and helped create harmony in residential environments,” he says. “These experiences taught me empathy, humility and the importance of teamwork.”
Endicott encourages future leaders to seek opportunities that foster personal growth, emphasizing that leadership is a continuous learning process.
“Leadership is like calculus—it builds on itself,” he says. “Take advantage of opportunities to lead, learn from others and approach challenges one step at a time.”
Shaping the Future in Space
Endicott’s adaptability has been a cornerstone of his career. When Tammy suggested, “I think space is the future,” he pursued a master’s degree in Space Operations from the Air Force Institute of Technology. This decision paved the way for his current role in the Space Force, where he helps navigate a rapidly evolving domain.
The Space Force operates in a contested and congested environment, with threats from nations like Russia and China. To secure the “ultimate high ground,” collaboration with commercial enterprises is key.
“We leverage commercial space innovations to modernize capabilities and lower barriers to accessing space,” Endicott says. “Emerging space technologies will redefine how we live, communicate and explore the universe.”
He highlighted the sustainability efforts of SpaceX, citing Starlink satellite launches that reused a booster for its 10th mission, showcasing advancements in cost-effective space operations.
However, space debris remains a significant challenge.
“Space Force tracks thousands of debris pieces to safeguard missions,” he says. “Last year, we processed two dozen orbit conjunction assessments for the International Space Station, with several requiring maneuvers.”
While many nations commit to responsible space use, others fall short. Endicott cited uncontrolled reentries from China as an ongoing concern.
Leading with Character
Endicott draws inspiration from his time at Embry-Riddle and leaders like Dwight Eisenhower, who turned lessons from his early career into transformative national infrastructure.
“Eisenhower united people to achieve remarkable things,” Endicott says. “Through the Space Force, we’re building a network of leaders and innovators who may take us to destinations yet to be discovered.”
On campus, Endicott sees the same spirit of innovation in students and cadets.
“They embody the Four Cs: character, connection, commitment and courage,” he says. “These are the traits we look for in the ultimate guardians of the Space Force.” From mentoring students to shaping the future of space defense, Endicott’s career exemplifies the blend of vision, adaptability and leadership required to navigate the challenges of an emerging frontier.