Overview
Pierre Harter is the Associate Vice President for Industry and Defense Programs, Research Operations at Wichita State University (WSU) and Director of Research and Development at the National Institute for Aviation Research (NIAR) at WSU. In these roles, Pierre oversees R&D programs, identifies opportunities for new programs and partnerships and develops growth strategies. Prior to joining WSU, Pierre was Executive Director of Advanced Manufacturing Strategy for Spirit AeroSystems with previous executive roles in program management and R&D. Prior to Spirit, he was an Engineering Director at Bombardier Learjet. Earlier in his career, he worked in Denver Colorado as a consultant in the aerospace industry, was a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Designated Engineering Representative (DER), and held a variety of engineering and executive leadership positions at Adam Aircraft Industries developing and certifying general aviation aircraft. Pierre received his Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering at WSU, and his MBA from Newman University.