Building Excellence Mark C Fava - Boeing Vice President on Lessons From the Admiral
May 11, 2026
Mark C. Fava, a retired U.S. Navy captain, naval flight officer and longtime aviation lawyer, discusses leadership forged in flight and crisis. He recounts life as an admiral’s aide, learnings on attention to detail, and calm decision-making during 9/11. He highlights traits like integrity, humility, recognition, and the balance of family, work, and purpose.
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Reluctant Aide Turned Immersive Apprenticeship
- Mark Fava was reluctant to interview for Admiral's aide but accepted and moved to Brunswick, Maine after getting the offer.
- He learned the job by hands-on turnover from Clyde, carrying the aide 'brain' portfolio and immediate heavy travel responsibilities.
Toothpick Diplomacy Wins The Admiral's Smile
- Clyde, the prior aide, handed Mark cellophane-wrapped toothpicks as a seemingly small but crucial practical tip.
- Mark later used a toothpick on a trip to Iceland and the Admiral noticed, proving attention to small preferences builds rapport.
Aide Role Is High Exposure Training
- Serving as an aide exposes you to high-level decision making and confidential contexts you otherwise wouldn't see.
- Mark describes being the Admiral's 'eyes and ears' at conferences, hearing classified and personal matters that teach judgment and discretion.
