Wanda M. Austin

Developed an artificial intelligence computer model of complex distribution systems to automatically generate a simulation program using natural language, which won the best doctoral thesis award by the Society for Computer Simulation. Provided systems engineering and mission assurance for the final architecture of the Milstar Medium Data Rate payload and championed its implementation to ensure on orbit performance. Responsible for funds in excess of $850 million of technical effort to National Intelligence, Air Force and NASA programs providing systems engineering and integration, risk assessments, independent reviews, innovative technology assessments, and anomaly resolution. Appointed to the four-member National Security Space Master Plan Task Force by the undersecretary of defense for space to represent the military space community. Personally uncovered critical design deficiencies and demonstrated superior technical and management performance in correcting these, resulting in on schedule delivery of communication systems.  Serves on the  President's Council of Advisors on Science and Technology.  Served on President Obama's US human Spaceflight Committee to develop technical options for NASA's Human Space Program. Councilor, National Academy of Engineering and a member of the International Academy of Astronautics. Honorary Fellow American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics. Trustee of the University of Southern California and National Geographic Society.