Dr. Richard Ham is a seasoned executive with 43 years of experience in international security, leadership, air traffic control, airspace and Uncrewed Aircraft Systems. He designs courses on global risk, homeland security, cybersecurity, uncrewed aircraft systems and regulatory enforcement. He leads the University of Arkansas Homeland Security Certificate Program and the Advanced Air Mobility and Autonomous Operations Micro Certificate.
Dr. Ham retired from the (USAF) after a distinguished career, including regulatory oversight of operations and security contracts for aircraft flying to Europe and the United States. He went on to serve in numerous leadership positions and later retiring from the Department of Homeland Security, Transportation Security Administration. His career culminated as the executive charged with all regulatory compliance and enforcement for the agency. During his tenure, he was instrumental in the management of the underwear bomber and Yemen printer bomber plots, as well as establishing the first K-9 passenger-screening program and Alien Flight Student Program. He continues to serve as Senior Law Enforcement Advisor for the State Department Anti-Terrorism Assistance Program.
Dr. Ham serves on the University drone committee and is active in numerous UAS, C-UAS security research projects.
Ed.D. - Doctor of Education in Higher Education, University of Arkansas
M.A.S. - Master of Aeronautical Science in Aviation Aerospace Management, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
B.S. - Bachelor of Science in Social Psychology, Park College
Article Reviewer, Journal of Air Transport Management
Subject Matter Expert, Federal Aviation Administration, “Drone Pro”
American Society of Industrial Security Chapter Vice Chairman
Academic Integrity Committee, University of Arkansas (5 years)
Curriculum Committee, Chair
Chairman, Thaden Field Airport Board
Arkansas Aviation Committee
Senior Administrator of the Year, 2017, University of Arkansas Industrial Engineering Academy
Faculty Member of the Year, Embry-Riddle University, Little Rock Campus, 2009
Foster Parents of the Year, Arkansas Court Appointed Special Advocates Association, 2009
TSA Team/Partnership Award, 2010
Arkansas Foster Parent(s) of the Year, 2009
TSA Annual Leadership Award Bronze Medal, 2004; Silver Leadership Award, TSA, 2003
Distinguished Graduate, Air Force Officer Training School
USAF Meritorious Service Medal, Commendation Medal, Achievement Medal
Federal Aviation Administration Southwest Region Aviation Safety Counselor of the Year, 2000
Air Force Space Command Air Traffic Control Officer of the Year, 1998
Strategic Air Command Air Traffic Controller of the Year, 1985