BIO
As Director, Barhydt is responsible for integrating cutting edge science to deliver new knowledge and capabilities to address critical issues facing those who use and benefit from our nation's forests. Prior to joining the Forest Service, Barhydt was the deputy director for the Transformative Aeronautics Concepts Program for the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Aeronautics Research Mission Directorate.
During his time at NASA, he led the development of early-stage technologies and physics-based tools to support the design of new aircraft. He brings 15 years of experience leading large research projects and programs across a range of technical disciplines and building partnerships to maintain relevance and deliver research capabilities.
In previous positions, Barhydt served as the deputy chief for the Entry Systems and Technology Division at NASA Ames Research Center. His research and development experience in that role supported of a wide range of NASA missions. He provided strategic planning, workforce guidance, personnel planning, and operations support for division staff and laboratory facilities.
Barhydt's educational background includes a Master of Science Degree in Aeronautics and Astronautics from Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Bachelor of Science Degree in Aerospace Engineering Sciences from the University of Colorado.