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Top Space Execs to Watch in 2026: Leidos’ Dr. Matt Doude

SWStaff Writer|2 min read|March 23, 2026
Dr. Matt Doude, Leidos

Dr. Matt Doude

Senior Director, Space Platforms, Leidos

When it comes to the next era of space commercialization, few leaders have been as deliberate or as forward-thinking as Dr. Matt Doude. As senior director of space platforms at Leidos, Doude built a diversified portfolio that bridges the momentum of NASA’s Artemis program with the rapid innovation needed in commercial space.

“What sets Matt apart is his ability to think strategically about the mission while never losing sight of execution,” said Alex Burns, vice president of platform and commercial solutions at Leidos. “He has created a team that puts customers and the enabling technologies first, while building a culture of collaboration and mutual support.”

Why Watch

Over the past several years, Doude has steadily repositioned his organization for the next era of space commercialization, building on a strategy he put in motion well before it became industry consensus. He expanded his team from a government-focused model to a diversified portfolio aligned with the momentum of NASA’s Artemis program and the accelerating innovation driven by the commercial space sector.

“As a result, we’re not reacting to market change, we’re helping define it, with a resilient foundation for sustained leadership beyond low Earth orbit,” Doude said. “We’re focusing on customers by first making sure we deliver on our promises for schedule, budget, and the level of quality that our customers expect. We also align our programs with their needs, making it easier for a wide range of partners, from established agencies to emerging space companies, to participate and succeed. By listening closely and reducing barriers to entry, we help customers achieve their goals more effectively.”

When asked about the driving force behind his organization’s success, Doude is quick to credit his team.

“Our team is the source of our success,” he said. “I just make sure they have the resources they need to do their jobs.”

Fun fact: What most people don’t know about Doude is that he plays the tuba — more in the past than now.

See the entire Top Space Execs to Watch in 2026 list here. 

SW
Staff Writer
WashingtonExec celebrates the people, programs, and milestones shaping the Washington, D.C. government contracting community.
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