
Ben Hutchins reflects on his transition from flying the F-35 to supporting aerospace advancements at Honeywell, where his mission remains centered on safety and reliability in defense operations. Read more >>
Navigating the intense demands of life as a fighter pilot, few roles rival the complexity and fulfillment of piloting the F-35. For retired U.S. Marine Corps aviator Ben Hutchins, known by his call sign “Brutuz,” flying the F-35 represented more than a career, it was a personal mission. Today, that same commitment fuels his work as Honeywell’s senior director of government relations, where he helps shape the direction of aerospace technology.
With nearly 30 years of decorated service in the Marine Corps, Hutchins’ aviation journey began in the AV-8B Harrier before he went on to fly the F-35, an advanced stealth multirole fighter.
Hutchins commented, “The F-35 isn’t just an aircraft; it’s a system that redefines what’s possible in aerial combat. To fly it is to understand what happens when innovation meets operational capability.”
As his career advanced, so did the complexity of his roles. Serving with the Deputy Commandant for Aviation and later within the Joint Staff’s Joint Capabilities Directorate, Hutchins contributed to shaping the development of modern military technologies.
His knowledge extended far beyond flying. He developed a deep understanding of how tactical systems, high-end sensors, and integrated technologies work together, insight that now informs his work with Honeywell’s product teams. There, he helps support the development of aerospace systems focused on maximizing performance and enhancing safety in operational environments.
Pairing Real-World Flying With Technical Innovation
Hutchins brings a rare and valuable perspective, blending combat aviation experience with a strong understanding of operational technology. He understands the high-stakes decisions pilots must make, often in real time, using complex sensory data, and the physical and mental endurance required for long missions. Above all, he knows that pilot trust in equipment is paramount.
Hutchins said. “The F-35’s exceptional sensor suite gives pilots a comprehensive view of the battlefield. That capability depends on the reliability of the technologies underpinning it.
“Our technologies aren’t just functional – they embody reliability, efficiency and durability. As a former pilot, I know what is at stake. Pilots rely on these systems like an ally in the cockpit.”
At Honeywell, Hutchins focuses on supporting the integration of technologies that meet the needs of pilots under pressure. Whether it’s advanced thermal management to support sensor systems or high-performance cooling for next-gen aircraft, he applies his operational experience to help inform improvements in aerospace systems.
Advocating for Pilots Through Intelligent Design
Hutchins’ influence reaches beyond avionics and systems integration. He brings a pilot’s operational perspective into product development conversations, helping ensure that the realities faced in the field are reflected in the systems being built.
Hutchins continued, “A pilot’s mission success relies on trusting their equipment as much as their skill. At Honeywell, every innovation is inspired by that understanding – the systems we create work invisibly, seamlessly, to help aviators focus on the mission at hand.
“As technology evolves, the role of the pilot will evolve too. We’re redefining what’s possible, empowering aviation professionals with systems that act like teammates.”
Looking to the future, Hutchins predicts that the aerospace industry will leverage artificial intelligence, automation and advanced sensory suites to further amplify the effectiveness of aviators.