Mr. Joseph Natarian is 20+ year member of IEEE and is professionally retained by the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) Engineering and Technical Management in the role of Director (acting).

In this role, he is responsible for AFRL-wide strategy and execution for Systems Engineering, Technical Management, Airworthiness, and STEM Outreach. Mr. Natarian is a subject matter expert in advanced systems engineering and analysis, leveraging his expertise to revolutionize AFRL’s research planning, strengthen strategic alignment, and accelerate technology transition to deliver battlespace advantage.

Mr. Natarian’s technical expertise is centered on digital transformation to accelerate delivery of innovations for military advantage across the Department of Air Force. He is a recognized authority in Digital Engineering, Systems Composition and Integration, Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE), and Agile/Dev*Ops methodologies. His work in these areas has enabled the rapid integration of complex capabilities, establishing new reference architectures for accelerated innovation across AFRL. He has deep experience in architecting and analyzing Systems-of-Systems, particularly for adaptive kill webs and integrated deterrence. Furthermore, Mr. Natarian has a strong background in Electronic Warfare and Cyber Effects, having led the development and transition of advanced technologies from the laboratory to multiple operational programs of record.

Prior to his current position, Mr. Natarian served as the Deputy Director for the Engineering and Technical Management Directorate and as the Deputy Directorate Chief Engineer for the AFRL Sensors Directorate. In these roles, he was a key technical advisor for advanced development, technology maturation, and capability transition. He has led collaborations with a wide range of partners, including DARPA, STRATCOM, OSD, the Intelligence Community, and JSOC. He has been a pivotal figure in developing and transitioning critical technologies to multiple programs of record across the Department of War.