Earle Thompson

Earle Thompson currently serves as the Deputy Director of Defense Research, UAS Program Manager, and Senior Lecturer at Auburn University since January 2011. Previous experience includes significant roles within the U.S. Air Force, such as Chief of the Safety Issues Division at HQ USAF (2006-2010), where responsibility encompassed safety oversight at the Pentagon, and Deputy Director at HQ Air Combat Command A9, where program development for combat air forces was managed. Earlier positions include Chief of Operations at USCENTCOM (2003-2006), Commander at Avon Park Air Force Range (2001-2003), Chief of Wing Plans at Moody (1997-2001), and various leadership roles within the 9th Air Force Inspector General and the 354 Tactical Fighter Wing. Earle Thompson holds a Master of Public Administration from Valdosta State University and a Bachelor’s degree in English and Biology from the University of South Alabama, along with military training from the Army Aviation School.