VANDENBERG SPACE FORCE BASE, Calif. –
During a ceremony July 16, 2025, the Space Force welcomed Senior Master Sgt. Steven Rutledge through an Interservice Transfer from the Air Force Reserve, bringing nearly two decades of military experience to a senior leadership position as an active-duty Guardian that will support operations across the service's expanding global warfighting mission in the space domain.
Rutledge's journey to space operations began with his Air Force enlistment in 2004. His path took a decisive turn in 2015 when he transitioned to the Air Force Reserve and retrained as a 1C6 Space Operator - a move that aligned his service with a lifelong passion.
"I have always been a space enthusiast, and doing that mission as a reservist was awesome," Rutledge said. When the Air Force Reserve space mission began transitioning away, his next step became clear. "I wanted to continue to serve, and Space Force was the logical choice."
Building on this foundation, Rutledge gained extensive exposure to space operations during his Air Force Reserve tenure through multiple Military Personnel Appropriation assignments in both the Joint Space Operations Center and Combined Space Operations Center. As an Active Guard and Reserve member from 2020 to 2024, he managed the organize, train, and equip mission for the 9th Combat Operations Squadron, preparing part-time reservists for potential activation. His final assignment before transferring was with the Commercial Integration Cell.
This comprehensive background has prepared Rutledge for his new role as Senior Enlisted Leader in the Operations Directorate within Delta 5, where his responsibilities directly support the Space Force's emphasis on combat-ready forces and integrated warfighting operations in, from and to the space domain. He oversees manpower, management, certification, and evaluation for crews maintaining continuous global space operations—a 24/7 operational tempo that extends far beyond any single installation and aligns with the service's hybrid space architecture strategy that integrates government and commercial capabilities to protect vital space domain assets.
"My scope will definitely grow with regards to the CSpOC's mission and its people," Rutledge said.
The breadth of Rutledge's Air Force Reserve background positions him to make immediate contributions to his new service. Having observed mission and organizational evolution at one location since 2015, he brings institutional knowledge spanning significant changes in space operations. Moreover, his experience working with diverse reserve personnel has honed interpersonal skills he considers essential for leadership in the new service.
"The Air Force Reserve is a very diverse group, and learning to communicate and work with a broad range of people will be helpful in this new service," Rutledge said.
This reserve background may prove particularly valuable as the Space Force develops its own part-time service programs, directly supporting Chief of Space Operations Gen. B. Chance Saltzman's strategic focus on personnel management and innovative approaches to force development. Rutledge sees his experience as directly applicable to implementing effective part-time Guardian initiatives.
"As the systems and guidance are put in place to allow Guardians to serve part-time, I know my reserve background will help make it a success," he said.
Beyond his operational expertise, the opportunity to influence a developing service appeals to Rutledge, who views the Space Force's relative youth as an advantage for innovation and fresh operational approaches that support the service's commitment space superiority and the protection of global space capabilities that enable modern life.
"I am excited about the possibility to shape the mission in the new service," he said. "Even though the service is five years old, we are still able to do things in new and innovative ways. I look forward to the many firsts this service will have in the coming years."
However, adapting to Space Force culture while leveraging his Air Force experience presents both opportunity and challenge. Rutledge recognizes the importance of embracing his new service's distinct identity rather than simply applying previous approaches.
"A challenge I anticipate in my new role will be to not let my Air Force experience dictate my actions and decisions," Rutledge said. "While my experience will be very valuable, I must adapt to the new service and think like a Guardian."
With this perspective in mind, Rutledge's transfer reflects the Space Force's appeal to experienced personnel seeking new challenges and growth opportunities. He encourages others to consider similar moves, emphasizing the potential for continued professional development regardless of career phase.
"I would encourage anyone interested to look for opportunities to transfer or join the Space Force," he said. "It's an exciting new challenge for those in other branches to continue to grow and learn no matter what stage they are at in their career."