Overview
As director of the Walter H. Beech Wind Tunnel, John Laffen oversees a staff of eight and all aspects of wind tunnel operation including scheduling, budget, test plans, maintenance and student research. He has served in this role since 2003.
Laffen began his career at NIAR in 2001 as an engineering manager in the lab. During his career at NIAR he has also been an integral part of the development of various university laboratories and programs as director of the compliance for the Office of Research and Technology Transfer; interim director of the Crash Dynamics and Environmental Test Labs; and liaison for the NIAR/Industry/State program.
He has 30 years of experience in the industry, including positions with Cessna, Cirrus Design Corporation and Raytheon Aircraft Company. He is an active member of the Subsonic Aerodynamic Testing Association and the American Institute for Aeronautics and Astronautics Ground Test Technical Committee. He graduated from Wichita State University with a B.S. in aerospace engineering.
B.S., Aeronautical Engineering, Wichita State University
Specializing in: Laboratory optimization; Oversight and management of budget, schedules and personnel;
Knowledge in aerodynamics, crash dynamics and composites and advanced materials.