Jonathan Bearce

Jonathan Bearce is an experienced aviation professional currently serving as a Senior Test Pilot at Stratolaunch since March 2024. Prior to this role, Jonathan held several key positions at Merlin Labs from April 2019 to January 2024, including VP of Flight Test and Director of Operations, focusing on the development and safety planning for autonomous systems. Jonathan's military career includes significant roles in the US Navy as Operational Test Director for F-35 and F-16 aircraft, and extensive testing and instructional positions within the United States Air Force, culminating in roles as a developmental test pilot and instructor at the Test Pilot School. Jonathan's early career includes noteworthy contributions as an AV-8B Instructor Pilot in the United States Marine Corps, and a brief tenure as a firefighter and first responder. Jonathan holds a Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering from the United States Naval Academy and multiple advanced degrees in flight test engineering and related fields.