AFRL Scholars program provides valuable assistance on defense innovation research

Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) Scholar Hank Ballard, pictured right, presented his research findings to improve pilot learning and performance in Air Force Global Strike Command (AFGSC) during a presentation Aug. 13 at STRIKEWERX in Bossier City, Louisiana. Dr. Tucker Readdy, AFGSC Air, Space and Information Operations Directorate, served as mentor for Ballard this summer. (U.S. Air Force Courtesy Photo by Sean Green, STRIKEWERX)

By Sean Green, Facilitation and Outreach Manager

BOSSIER CITY, La. — One student spent his summer providing foundational research for defense innovation in Air Force Global Strike Command (AFGSC) via the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) Scholars Program.

Hank Ballard, a University of Tennessee doctoral student, analyzed data for Striker STEEL (Strategically Enhancing Effectiveness for Long-Range Strike). This project measures performance gains among aircrews through training tailored to their specific physical and cognitive demands.

“The work I did this summer was a foundation that can be used to get a deeper understanding of human performance optimization,” said Ballard.

Dr. Tucker Readdy, AFRL Scholars mentor for AFGSC’s Air, Space and Information Operations Directorate, noted that having dedicated support in his office boosts both the effectiveness and quality of Striker STEEL.

“Hank’s initiatives mark the first step toward our next five years of research,” Readdy said. “Future AFRL Scholars will now be able to help determine whether pilots are truly performing better because of this training.”

Readdy, who has participated in the program for the past three years, emphasized that scholars are essential in analyzing data that advance the command’s mission.

“The AFRL Scholars’ work enables the command to make research-driven decisions on how to improve aircrew training,” he said. “Without that research base, you’re making an informed guess. This approach grounds our efforts in real data.”

The AFRL Scholars Program offers summer internships to students pursuing degrees in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Interns gain hands-on experience working alongside professional scientists and engineers on projects selected by the AFGSC Office of the Chief Scientist during a 10- to 12-week program at Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana. The program is administered through STRIKEWERX, the Cyber Innovation Center (CIC)’s innovation hub for AFGSC.

“We’re proud to support a program that exposes students to new technology and Air Force careers, while allowing the Air Force to leverage students’ expertise on complex projects,” said Kevin Nolten, CIC president.

Ballard said working in a military research environment was invaluable and helped shape his career goals. “My time here has inspired me to seek opportunities to work with the U.S. military, whether in a research or applied capacity,” he said.