Dr. Charles Rea

Dr. Charles Rea is a seasoned professional with 21 years of experience in Data Fusion, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Robotic Autonomous Systems. He currently serves as NAWCAD's lead for Autonomy, leading a team of 35 research scientists and engineers in developing next generation autonomous systems for the Navy, Air Force, and Department of Defense programs. Charles plays a pivotal role in the transition to the Air Wing of the Future. Internationally he supports NATO's Joint Capability Group for Unmanned Aerial Systems leading the development of NATO's Autonomy Guidelines for Practitioners and championing the creation of the NATO Autonomy Task Force. He also supports The Technical Cooperation Partnership (TTCP) with FVEY nations as USN's lead for Autonomy. His research is focused on quantitative measures and metrics of autonomy, AI, and fusion performance. He holds a Doctorate of Engineering from the George Washington University (2023), a Masters of Science in Electrical Engineering (2013), and a Bachelors of Science in Electrical Engineering and Computer Engineering (2008), all three from West Virginia University. Charles is a NAWCAD Associate Fellow and a member of various professional organizations. Charles' success is due to his wife of 15 years' unwavering support and two children.