Dr. Ford brings over 40 years of experience in commercial and defense avionics system development, specializing in systems engineering, research and development, ground and in-flight testing, and training for both crewed and uncrewed platforms. He earned his Ph.D. in Applied Management and Decision Sciences from Walden University, with a specialization in Naval Warfare Operations Analysis. His doctoral research led to the pioneering integration of the first commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) search radar flown and remotely controlled on a Group 3 or smaller uncrewed aircraft system (UAS).
Dr. Ford also holds an M.S. in Space Studies from the University of North Dakota, where he focused on long-duration human spaceflight. His professional certifications include FAA Advanced Ground Instructor, Private Pilot and Commercial UAS Remote Pilot, as well as AUVSI TOP-3 Remote Pilot Instructor credentials.
Ph.D. - Doctor of Philosophy in Applied Management and Decision Science: General, Walden University
M.S. - Master of Science in Space Studies, University of North Dakota
Graduate Certificate in Postgraduate Intelligence Program: National Foreign Intelligence Community, National Intelligence University
B.S. - Bachelor of Science in Liberal Studies, Excelsior College