Air Force Research Laboratory Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

Air Force Research Laboratory has 5 executives leading key functions including technology, information, finance, 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, 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 Technology Officer - Michael Salisbury
  • Chief Information Officer - David Cartmell
  • 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 financial management and strategic resource allocation for the organization. Williams assists in overseeing the fiscal operations, ensuring compliance with budgetary regulations and optimizing financial planning for research and development projects. This position is vital for maintaining the financial health of AFRL, enabling the pursuit of affordable warfighting technologies. Irving Williams's contributions are essential in managing the financial aspects of a large workforce and diverse technological portfolio. The Deputy Chief Financial Officer plays a key part in financial oversight, supporting the Chief Financial Officer in all fiscal matters and ensuring the efficient use of government funds.

    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, leads the comprehensive financial strategy and management for the organization. Wilson oversees financial operations across headquarters portfolios and the Digital Capabilities Directorate, ensuring fiscal responsibility and effective resource allocation for scientific research and development. This leadership position is crucial for supporting AFRL's mission of developing affordable warfighting technologies by managing budgets and financial planning. Audrey Wilson's expertise drives financial integrity and supports the integration of digital capabilities with robust financial oversight. The Chief Financial Officer ensures that all financial activities align with strategic objectives and regulatory requirements.

    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 a diverse portfolio of science and technology initiatives, spanning fundamental research to advanced development across nine technology areas. This leadership role ensures AFRL's technological superiority in air, space, and cyberspace domains. By fostering innovation and guiding research efforts, Michael Salisbury drives the advancement of critical capabilities essential for the future air, space, and cyberspace force. The Chief Technology Officer's strategic vision shapes the technological roadmap, enabling the development of next-generation warfighting solutions and maintaining a competitive edge in a rapidly evolving global landscape.
    Michael Salisbury

    David Cartmell - Chief Information Officer

    David Cartmell, the Chief Information Officer at Air Force Research Laboratory, manages the organization's information technology infrastructure and digital capabilities. Cartmell ensures the secure and efficient operation of all IT systems, supporting AFRL's extensive research and development activities. This role is critical for maintaining data integrity and accessibility across more than 11,000 personnel and numerous global operations. David Cartmell's leadership focuses on implementing advanced information management strategies to enhance operational effectiveness and support the integration of new technologies. The Chief Information Officer's responsibilities include safeguarding sensitive information and driving digital transformation initiatives that underpin the laboratory's scientific endeavors.

    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, directs critical information technology and cyber systems functions. Boeke leads the Cyber Systems & Information Management Branch within the Materials & Manufacturing Directorate, ensuring robust data management and cybersecurity protocols. This dual role emphasizes the integration of IT strategy with the specific needs of advanced materials research. Daniel Boeke's leadership ensures the secure and efficient handling of information vital to developing cutting-edge technologies for the air, space, and cyberspace force. The Chief Information Officer's oversight extends to safeguarding digital assets and enhancing operational capabilities through advanced cyber systems.

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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 Michael Salisbury (Chief Technology 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), Michael Salisbury (Chief Technology 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 Technology Officer, Chief Information Officer, Chief Information Officer & Cyber Systems & Information Management Branch, Materials & Manufacturing Directorate Chief.