VANDENBERG SPACE FORCE BASE, Calif. -- After nearly three decades of service, Col. Mark Shoemaker, Space Launch Delta 30 commander, will retire July 3, 2025, ahead of the Space Launch Delta 30 change of command, July 8, 2025.
With a career that has spanned from electrical engineering projects supporting real-time combat operations to leading a spaceport at the forefront of national defense, Shoemaker leaves a legacy of mission excellence, innovation, and leadership grounded in humility and respect.
Looking back on his journey, Shoemaker reflects on defining chapters that shaped his career. One of the earliest came at Eglin Air Force Base, where he applied his engineering background to real-time changes on a radar jammer for the F-15 fighter aircraft. The upgrades were swiftly tested in operations over Europe in 1999 during a 78-day North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) campaign, Operation Allied Force, yielding direct feedback from aircrews whose safety depended on his team’s work.
“To do that as a brand-new lieutenant was rewarding,” said Shoemaker. “It had a real impact right out of the gate.”
In 2003, he was stationed at Vandenberg SFB for the first time, where he worked on the Titan IV program and made history in 2005, as the last Air Force launch controller for the Titan IV-B system, which was the U.S. Air Force’s largest and most powerful expendable single-use rocket.
“That was a unique mission—our sole focus was making that final launch successful; it was special.”
His assignment at the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) brought unexpected challenges and lessons in patience and adaptability. Initially unfulfilled, Shoemaker was soon reassigned—twice—to more demanding and impactful roles.
“That experience taught me to do well where you are. Opportunities often come when you least expect them,” he said.
Shoemaker would go on to command at every level—squadron, group, and installation—despite coming from a career field where that trajectory was far from typical. Each step reinforced his leadership philosophy: own the mission completely, define the problem clearly, ruthlessly prioritize, and above all—lead as yourself.
Beginning in 2023, his time as Commander of Space Launch Delta 30 was marked by unprecedented launch tempo and historic milestones. Under his leadership, Space Launch Delta 30 executed 51 launches in 2024 — the most in over 50 years.
“Seeing the entire organization come together to achieve that was incredible,” said Shoemaker, citing the team’s commitment to innovation, safety, and strategic coordination. That effort was a key contributor to SLD 30 and Vandenberg SFB winning the 2025 Commander in Chief’s Annual Award for Installation Excellence— another point of pride.
Shoemaker’s impact extended far beyond launch statistics. His commitment to quality of life for Guardians and Airmen alike was evident in projects like improving base housing through collaboration with the privatized military housing Initiative partner, launching the Human Performance Optimization Center to support Guardian and Airman resilience, and building a culture of cohesion across squadrons.
“We’re one team—every squadron supports, and is supported, by others,” he said. That connection is what makes the mission work.”
As a leader to both Airmen and Guardians, Shoemaker successfully navigated the evolving identity of the Space Force while fostering unity and shared purpose. “We’re in a time where more and more Guardians have never served in the Air Force,” he said. “Keeping the team cohesive while honoring each service’s identity is a leadership challenge—but also an opportunity.”
Professionally and personally, Vandenberg SFB holds a special place for Shoemaker. It’s where he first launched his space career and where his family grew—from one child to two. “It’s been the most fun, challenging, and rewarding professional experience of my life,” he said. “To lead this operational spaceport, to make decisions that directly impact lives, and to try and make those lives better—that’s been the greatest privilege.”
As he transitions into civilian life, stability and community are his priorities. “I’m looking forward to not moving for a while, just putting down roots,” he said. “Simple things like building relationships with local businesses or finding the best place to get your car fixed… that’s a connection we haven’t had in a long time.”
When asked what legacy he hoped to leave, Shoemaker was quick to deflect praise. “Legacy is a big word,” he said. “But if I look back 20 or 30 years from now, I’ll be proud that I helped the nation go from launching once a month to every week. We did it not with more money or more people—but by changing the way we think, work, and lead.”
Shoemaker’s service has not only shaped the future of space but also set the tone for how leaders can drive innovation while staying true to their values.
As for his advice to the next generation of Guardians and Airmen? “Know your job. Commit to excellence. Don’t accept ‘how it’s always been’ as good enough. Hold your leaders accountable to mission command. And most of all—find joy in what you do. This career has been incredibly rewarding. I hope it is for you too.”
As Colonel Shoemaker steps into the next chapter of life, Vandenberg Space Force Base stands taller and stronger. Farewell, Col. Mark Shoemaker. Thank you for your service.