Air Force Research Laboratory Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Air Force Research Laboratory has 5 executives leading key functions including information technology, technology development, financial management, and cyber systems.

Driven by innovation, Air Force Research Laboratory serves as the primary scientific research and development center for the Department of the Air Force, focusing on discovering, developing, and integrating affordable warfighting technologies for air, space, and cyberspace forces.

Leadership Roles at Air Force Research Laboratory

  • Deputy Chief Financial Officer - Irving Williams
  • Chief Financial Officer, Financial Management, Digital Capabilities Directorate, Headquarters Portfolios - Audrey Wilson
  • Chief Information Officer - David Cartmell
  • Chief Technology Officer - Michael Salisbury
  • Chief Information Officer & Cyber Systems & Information Management Branch, Materials & Manufacturing Directorate Chief - Daniel Boeke
  • Irving Williams - Deputy Chief Financial Officer

    Irving Williams, the Deputy Chief Financial Officer at Air Force Research Laboratory, supports the strategic financial planning and management of the organization's extensive research and development budget. Williams assists in overseeing fiscal operations, ensuring compliance with governmental regulations, and optimizing resource allocation across various technology areas. This role is crucial in maintaining the financial integrity of AFRL's mission to develop affordable warfighting technologies. By contributing to sound financial practices, Irving Williams directly supports the laboratory's ability to execute its diverse portfolio of science and technology development. The Deputy Chief Financial Officer's efforts ensure efficient stewardship of public funds and support long-term operational sustainability.

    Audrey Wilson - Chief Financial Officer, Financial Management, Digital Capabilities Directorate, Headquarters Portfolios

    Audrey Wilson, the Chief Financial Officer, Financial Management, Digital Capabilities Directorate, Headquarters Portfolios at Air Force Research Laboratory, directs the comprehensive financial management strategy for key headquarters portfolios and the Digital Capabilities Directorate. Wilson oversees budgeting, financial reporting, and resource allocation, ensuring fiscal responsibility and alignment with the Department of the Air Force's strategic objectives. This leadership position is vital for supporting the discovery, development, and integration of affordable warfighting technologies. By managing financial operations, Audrey Wilson directly enables the execution of AFRL's diverse scientific research and development initiatives. The Chief Financial Officer's expertise ensures the efficient deployment of resources across global operations and technological advancements.

    David Cartmell - Chief Information Officer

    David Cartmell, the Chief Information Officer at Air Force Research Laboratory, directs the strategic implementation and management of all information technology resources. Overseeing the enterprise-wide IT infrastructure, Cartmell ensures robust cybersecurity measures and efficient data management systems are in place to support the laboratory's research and development objectives. This leadership role involves aligning technology initiatives with the overarching mission of developing affordable warfighting technologies for air, space, and cyberspace forces. By optimizing digital platforms and fostering technological innovation, David Cartmell directly supports the integration of advanced capabilities across the Department of the Air Force. The Chief Information Officer's purview extends to enhancing operational efficiency and safeguarding sensitive information across the organization's global operations.

    Michael Salisbury - Chief Technology Officer

    Michael Salisbury, the Chief Technology Officer at Air Force Research Laboratory, architects the technological vision and roadmap for the organization's scientific endeavors. Salisbury drives the discovery and development of cutting-edge warfighting technologies, ensuring AFRL remains at the forefront of innovation in air, space, and cyberspace domains. This critical position involves identifying emerging technological trends and fostering an environment conducive to groundbreaking research. By guiding the integration of advanced capabilities, Michael Salisbury directly contributes to the Department of the Air Force's strategic objectives. The Chief Technology Officer's responsibilities encompass overseeing research portfolios and ensuring the practical application of scientific advancements to meet future warfighting needs.
    Michael Salisbury

    Daniel Boeke - Chief Information Officer & Cyber Systems & Information Management Branch, Materials & Manufacturing Directorate Chief

    Daniel Boeke, the Chief Information Officer & Cyber Systems & Information Management Branch, Materials & Manufacturing Directorate Chief at Air Force Research Laboratory, spearheads the information technology strategy and cyber defense for the Materials & Manufacturing Directorate. Boeke ensures the secure and efficient management of cyber systems and information, directly supporting the directorate's mission in advancing materials science and manufacturing technologies. This dual role involves overseeing IT operations while also leading the cyber systems and information management branch, guaranteeing data integrity and system security. By implementing robust cybersecurity protocols, Daniel Boeke safeguards critical research data and intellectual property. The Chief Information Officer's leadership ensures seamless technological integration and operational resilience within this specialized directorate.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Air Force Research Laboratory Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Air Force Research Laboratory?
    Air Force Research Laboratory is led by Irving Williams (Deputy Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Audrey Wilson (Chief Financial Officer, Financial Management, Digital Capabilities Directorate, Headquarters Portfolios) and David Cartmell (Chief Information Officer).
    Who is part of Air Force Research Laboratory’s executive team?
    The executive team of Air Force Research Laboratory includes leaders such as Irving Williams (Deputy Chief Financial Officer), Audrey Wilson (Chief Financial Officer, Financial Management, Digital Capabilities Directorate, Headquarters Portfolios), David Cartmell (Chief Information Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Air Force Research Laboratory have?
    Air Force Research Laboratory has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Air Force Research Laboratory’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Air Force Research Laboratory includes roles such as Deputy Chief Financial Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Financial Management, Digital Capabilities Directorate, Headquarters Portfolios, Chief Information Officer, Chief Technology Officer, Chief Information Officer & Cyber Systems & Information Management Branch, Materials & Manufacturing Directorate Chief.