Mark was a 1977 distinguished graduate of the U.S. Air Force Academy majoring in Astronautical Engineering.  Over the course of his flying career he piloted over 40 aircraft types including the F-4 and F-16 and was the first Air Force test pilot to fly the YF-22 Advanced Tactical Fighter prototype. Mark managed F-22 cockpit development and directed the F-16 and F-22 programs.  He served in general officer positions directing missile defense flight tests, Air Force Space requirements, and Air Force Global Power programs culminating as the Military Deputy, Office of the Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Acquisition.