Tray Siegfried
Owner & Chief Executive Officer
Tray Siegfried brings more than 25 years of experience in the aerospace industry to Vertical Aerospace. Prior to founding the company, he held numerous leadership positions across the aerospace sector, providing strategic direction in operations, sales and marketing, corporate governance, and business development.
Throughout his career, Tray has played an active role in industry organizations, including the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) and the Aerospace Industries Association (AIA). He has led multiple long-term business growth and capture strategies across business aviation, commercial, and military markets.
An accomplished aviator, Tray holds an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate, multiple jet type ratings, and is designated as an Air Force Command Pilot. His military service includes numerous overseas operational deployments, including Operation Iraqi Freedom, during which he flew combat missions in the F-16 fighter aircraft. He retired as a Brigadier General with 31 years of service.
Tray earned his MBA from the University of Tulsa and holds a bachelor’s degree in business from the University of Notre Dame.
Ethan Clark
Director of Commercial Operations
Ethan Clark brings 16 years of leadership and sales experience within the aerospace industry. Ethan’s role as director includes every facet of the Commercial Operations at Vertical, including Customer Service, New Business Development, Asset Management, and Supply Chain. Ethan brings an entrepreneurial spirit to managing operators and building lasting aerospace relationships.
Throughout his years of aviation experience, Ethan has showcased adaptability in an ever-evolving industry and set the stage for ongoing and future company success at Vertical.
Ethan holds a business degree from Northeastern State University. In his spare time, Ethan enjoys spending time with his wife and two daughters. His hobbies include competitive tennis, weightlifting, and golf.
Shane Thomas
Director of MRO & Manufacturing Production
Shane brings more than 20 years of production and Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) experience within the aerospace industry. Before advancing into management and executive leadership roles, he built a strong operational foundation through a variety of positions including mechanic, evaluator, chief inspector, and supervisor.
As Director, Shane leverages his extensive industry expertise and leadership experience to ensure every project is executed in alignment with Vertical’s unwavering commitment to quality, integrity, and operational excellence.
Throughout his aviation career, Shane has fostered a mentorship driven leadership approach focused on developing high-performing teams and implementing initiatives that strengthen and enhance Vertical’s culture.
Outside of his professional accomplishments, Shane is a devoted husband of 18 years and proud father of two children. In his free time, he enjoys fishing, hunting, golfing, and mentoring youth within his local community.