FAA & ASSURE Projects – Raspet Flight Research Laboratory
Federal Aviation Administration & Alliance for System Safety of UAS through Research Excellence
Program Manager & Co-Principal Investigator
Total Funding Managed: $8,000,000+
Michael led the execution and coordination of multiple high-visibility UAS research initiatives under FAA sponsorship. These projects were conducted through ASSURE, the FAA’s Center of Excellence for UAS Research, with Mississippi State University as the lead institution.
Dissertation (Coming Soon) & Future Work
Michael Thompson’s doctoral dissertation explores the intersection of leadership, accountability, and innovation in public procurement. This research seeks to understand how strategic leadership and modernized policy frameworks can enhance performance, transparency, and mission effectiveness in federal contracting.
Focus Areas:
Integration of technology in acquisition processes
Strategic leadership in public sector procurement
Procurement performance metrics and accountability
Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) modernization
Risk mitigation and ethical stewardship of public funds
Research Philosophy
Michael’s approach to research is grounded in mission-alignment, evidence-based practices, and public service. He is especially interested in how innovative technologies can be effectively and ethically integrated into regulatory frameworks.
“Research should not only advance knowledge but also strengthen the systems that serve and protect people.”
Michael Thompson 