• Dr. Jaiwon Shin
  • NASA Aeronautics Research Mission Directorate
  • 321 McBryde Hall
  • 2:00 p.m.
  • Faculty Host: Dr. Seongim Choi

NASA recently developed a new and compelling strategic vision for the Aeronautics Research programs. This strategy is the culmination of a multi-year effort that included gathering industry and other Government agencies’ inputs, systems analysis of environmental and market trends, and the identification of societal mega-drivers. The trend analysis indicated that NASA could best contribute to the nation’s future societal and economic vitality by focusing efforts in six thrust areas. These six areas align to be responsive to a growing demand for mobility, severe challenges to sustainability of energy and the environment, and technology advances in information, communications, and automation technologies. The thrust areas are:

  • Assured autonomy for aviation transformation
  • Innovation in commercial supersonic aircraft
  • Ultra-efficient commercial vehicles
  • Transition to low-carbon propulsion
  • Real-time system safety assurance
  • Safe, efficient growth in global operations

To most effectively manage the research needed to address these strategic thrusts, NASA restructured its research programs, focusing on three specific goals. Dr. Shin will elaborate the research focus area on the goals.  

Biography:

Dr. Jaiwon Shin is the associate administrator for the NASA Aeronautics Research Mission Directorate. In this position, he manages the agency’s aeronautics research portfolio and guides its strategic direction. Shin co-chairs the National Science & Technology Council’s Aeronautics Science & Technology Subcommittee. Between May 2004 and January 2008, Shin served as deputy associate administrator for the Aeronautics Research Mission Directorate where he was instrumental in restructuring NASA’s program to focus on fundamental research and better align with the nation’s Next Generation Air Transportation System (NextGen). Prior to coming to work at NASA Headquarters, Shin served as chief of the Aeronautics Office at NASA’s Glenn Research Center. Prior to that, Shin served as chief of the Aviation Safety Program Office, as well as the deputy program manager for NASA’s Aviation Safety Program and Airspace Systems Program.

Dr. Shin received his doctorate in mechanical engineering from the Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia. His bachelor’s degree is from Yonsei University in Korea and his master’s degree is in mechanical engineering from the California State University, Long Beach. His many honors include the 2008 Presidential Rank Award for Meritorious Senior Executive, NASA’s  Outstanding Leadership Medal, NASA’s Exceptional Service Medal, a NASA Group  Achievement Award, Lewis Superior Accomplishment Award, three Lewis Group Achievement Awards, and an Air Force Team Award.