Abstract

The aerospace industry has transitioned from relying on physical documents to leveraging advanced specification languages, model checking and integrated digital design. Historically, design knowledge was confined to the expertise of Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) and fragmented paper records. This method has evolved to accommodate the complexities of modern aerospace technology, which demands highly integrated systems and innovative design approaches. Current practices involve explicitly modeled system components within a knowledge graph, enabling automated reasoning across safety, cybersecurity, and performance. This transformation is driven by needs to enhance design efficiency and adapt to new technological standards like SysML v2 and AI tools. The discussion will explore the impact of these changes on aerospace design, drawing parallels with Amazon's shift to Service-Oriented Architecture (SOA) to underline potential strategies and outcomes for the industry.

Bio

Tim is the Vice President of Autonomy at Boeing, where he leads the global strategy and technological execution for autonomous systems across the commercial and defense sectors, including uncrewed aircraft, commercial passenger aircraft, manufacturing, ground operations, and subsurface vehicles. Prior to this role, he served as the Vice President of Engineering at Lockheed Martin responsible for defense platforms such as the F-35, F-22, C-130, and numerous classified programs. Previously, as Managing Director and CTO at HSBC, he led global technology operations across 22 countries, employing AI and data analytics to enhance security measures and operational efficiency with a similar role at Colgate-Palmolive. At DARPA, he managed programs in high fidelity models, electronic warfare and cyber technologies following a military and civil service career focused on program management, policy and technical assessments of defense technology. Tim continues to contribute to national security through his active reservist duties and membership on two National Academy of Science Panels. For further engagement, he can be contacted at via email at tim@theboohers.org.