David McDermott
David McDermott
Principal Fellow, Product Safety, Risk Management & Safety Management System (SMS), Pratt & Whitney
Elected to the Academy in 2026

Education

North Carolina State University, BS, Aerospace Engineering; University of Florida, MS, Mechanical Engineering; University of Massachusetts Amherst, MBA, Business

Professional Areas

Mr. McDermott’s areas of expertise include military and commercial flight safety risk management processes, development of industry-recognized safety policy & criteria, product safety design assurance, and strategic corporate safety culture development. A legitimate thought leader in aviation safety.

Citation

For instrumental work in advancing aerospace product safety, and for leadership in policy development, risk management, assurance, and promotion that has set industry benchmarks, enhanced safety culture, and ensured the highest standards for commercial and military aerospace.