Ryan Stoddard is an Associate Professor in the Engineering Pathways Program. A retired Navy Commander, he served in key leadership roles including Commanding Officer of Fleet Air Reconnaissance Squadron FOUR and Aide to the Secretary of Defense. During his 23-year career as a naval aviator, he logged over 2,500 flight hours in five aircraft and maintains his certified flight instructor (CFI) qualification as a civilian.
He earned a PhD in Mechanical Engineering from Virginia Tech and has significant experience in both industry and academia. As a Systems Engineering Manager at Boeing, he led digital transformation efforts and strengthened collaboration between the company and local universities. At Rose State College, he served as Dean of the Engineering & Science Division, developing innovative programs in Data Science and Aviation Management with an emphasis on small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS). He is committed to advancing STEM education, leadership development, and alignment between industry and academia.
