Air Force Research Laboratory Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

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

Driven by a commitment to innovation, Air Force Research Laboratory serves as the primary scientific research and development center for the Department of the Air Force, forging affordable warfighting technologies for air, space, and cyberspace forces.

Leadership Roles at Air Force Research Laboratory

  • Deputy Chief Financial Officer - Irving Williams
  • Chief Technology Officer - Michael Salisbury
  • Chief Information Officer - David Cartmell
  • Chief Information Officer & Cyber Systems & Information Management Branch, Materials & Manufacturing Directorate Chief - Daniel Boeke
  • Chief Information Officer, Air Force Maui Optical & Supercomputing (Amos) - Kristin Warren
  • Irving Williams - Deputy Chief Financial Officer

    Irving Williams, the Deputy Chief Financial Officer at Air Force Research Laboratory, supports the financial planning, budgeting, and resource allocation for the organization's extensive research and development initiatives. Williams assists in ensuring fiscal responsibility and the efficient deployment of funds across AFRL's nine technology areas and global operations. This role involves analyzing financial data to inform strategic decision-making and optimize investment in warfighting technologies. The Deputy Chief Financial Officer plays a key part in managing the financial aspects of large-scale scientific projects, ensuring compliance with government regulations. Irving Williams' contributions are vital to maintaining the financial health of AFRL, enabling the continuous pursuit of innovation and the development of affordable solutions for the air, space, and cyberspace force.

    Michael Salisbury - Chief Technology Officer

    Michael Salisbury, the Chief Technology Officer at Air Force Research Laboratory, directs the discovery, development, and integration of affordable warfighting technologies. Salisbury oversees the strategic technological roadmap, ensuring AFRL's advancements align with the evolving needs of air, space, and cyberspace forces. This leadership position involves guiding research across multiple technology areas, fostering innovation from fundamental science to advanced development. By championing cutting-edge solutions, Salisbury ensures the Air Force maintains a technological advantage. The Chief Technology Officer's responsibilities include managing a diverse portfolio of scientific endeavors and driving the integration of new capabilities into operational systems. Michael Salisbury's focus remains on delivering transformative technologies that enhance warfighting effectiveness and operational readiness across all domains.
    Michael Salisbury

    David Cartmell - Chief Information Officer

    David Cartmell, the Chief Information Officer at Air Force Research Laboratory, manages the organization's information systems and digital infrastructure. Cartmell ensures the secure and efficient operation of all IT resources, supporting AFRL's extensive research and development activities. This role involves developing and implementing information technology strategies that enhance operational capabilities and data management. The Chief Information Officer oversees the integration of advanced technologies to support the discovery and development of warfighting solutions. By optimizing information flow and cybersecurity measures, Cartmell safeguards critical data and intellectual property. David Cartmell's leadership ensures that AFRL's technological backbone is robust, scalable, and aligned with the department's mission objectives, facilitating seamless collaboration and innovation across its global operations.

    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, leads critical information systems and cyber operations within the Materials & Manufacturing Directorate. Boeke's dual role encompasses both overarching IT strategy and specific cyber system management, ensuring the integrity and security of Directorate data. This leadership involves architecting and implementing robust cyber defenses and information management protocols essential for advanced materials research. The Chief Information Officer & Cyber Systems & Information Management Branch, Materials & Manufacturing Directorate Chief drives the digital transformation within the Directorate, enabling faster development cycles and enhanced collaboration. Daniel Boeke's expertise ensures that the Directorate's technological infrastructure supports the discovery of next-generation materials for air, space, and cyberspace applications, safeguarding sensitive research and development efforts.

    Kristin Warren - Chief Information Officer, Air Force Maui Optical & Supercomputing (Amos)

    Kristin Warren, the Chief Information Officer, Air Force Maui Optical & Supercomputing (Amos) at Air Force Research Laboratory, directs the information technology strategy and operations for the Amos facility. Warren ensures the optimal performance and security of the supercomputing and optical systems critical for advanced research. This leadership role involves managing complex data processing capabilities and ensuring seamless integration with broader AFRL networks. The Chief Information Officer, Air Force Maui Optical & Supercomputing (Amos) oversees the infrastructure supporting groundbreaking scientific endeavors, including space domain awareness and advanced sensor development. Kristin Warren's focus is on leveraging cutting-edge IT solutions to accelerate discovery and enhance the analytical power of Amos, directly contributing to the Air Force's technological superiority in space and cyberspace.

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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 Michael Salisbury (Chief Technology Officer) 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), Michael Salisbury (Chief Technology Officer), 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 Technology Officer, Chief Information Officer, Chief Information Officer & Cyber Systems & Information Management Branch, Materials & Manufacturing Directorate Chief, Chief Information Officer, Air Force Maui Optical & Supercomputing (Amos).