Huntsville, Ala. – CFD Research is pleased to announce the addition of Mr. Dan Shafer as Vice President of the Test & Evaluation (T&E) Division. With more than 30 years of experience in the Aerospace and Defense industry, Dan brings a wealth of knowledge in test operations, machining and prototyping, program management, and executive level leadership across both government and commercial sectors.
Dan most recently served as Site Director at Blue Origin, where he oversaw test and launch operations at NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC). During his tenure, he led more than 300 engine tests on the BE-3 and BE-4 propulsion systems, advancing the capabilities of next-generation spaceflight technologies. Prior to that, he held senior leadership roles at Lockheed Martin, managing large, multi-site teams and spearheading complex programs across the enterprise. He also has experience working at and helping to scale small businesses.
As Vice President of T&E, Dan will guide the rapidly growing division’s technical strategy, oversee operations, foster talent development, and strengthen customer relationships. He will work closely with teams across the organization to ensure the continued delivery of high-impact solutions that support national defense and aerospace innovation.
Dan holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering from the Rochester Institute of Technology and a Master’s Degree in Engineering Management from the University of Central Florida. He also completed post-graduate studies in Engineering Management at Old Dominion University.
Dan’s proven track record in mission-critical operations and his passion for advancing engineering excellence make him an ideal fit to lead CFD Research’s growing T&E Division. The company is excited to welcome Dan aboard and looks forward to the leadership and insight he will bring as we continue to strengthen our role as a trusted provider of advanced testing and evaluation services.
About CFD Research: Since its inception in 1987, CFD Research has delivered innovative technology solutions within the Aerospace & Defense, Biomedical & Life Sciences, Intelligence & Sensing, and Energy & Materials industries. CFD Research has earned multiple national awards for successful application and commercialization of innovative component/system technology prototypes, multi-physics simulation software, multi-disciplinary analyses, and expert support services. Based in Huntsville, Alabama where laboratory facilities and headquarters are located, CFD Research also has office and laboratory facilities in Dayton, Ohio, prototyping test and evaluation facilities in Hollywood, Alabama, and office facilities in Fort Walton Beach, Florida. CFD Research is an ISO9001:AS9100D registered company and is appraised at CMMI Level II for Services. CFD Research is a 100% ESOP (employee-owned company) recognized in Inc. Magazine’s Inc5000 as a top growing company for four of last five years. Learn more at www.cfd-research.com.
