Thomas Horan

Lt Col Thomas Horan is Director of the Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML) portfolio at the Defense Innovation Unit. In this role, he oversees and leads efforts to drive technological innovation and outpace adversaries by developing and deploying cutting-edge AI/ML and data-driven solutions.

Tom is an Air Force pilot with more than 3,000 flying hours, primarily in the KC-135R/T and KC-10A. He has a broad experience in worldwide air refueling and mobility operations, and previously deployed in support of Operations NEW DAWN, ENDURING FREEDOM, RESOLUTE SUPPORT, and INHERENT RESOLVE.

Tom earned an undergraduate degree in Aeronautical & Astronautical Engineering from Purdue University in Indiana. He also holds graduate degrees in Systems Engineering from the Pennsylvania State University and Military Operational Art & Science from the Air Command & Staff College, where he was a distinguished graduate. Tom has also completed graduate studies at the Air Force Institute of Technology and post-graduate work at the George Washington University in Systems Engineering. He is a graduate of the United States Air Force Weapons School.