Clark Groves

Dr. Clark Groves is a Professor and NSIB Chair at the Eisenhower School of National Defense University in Washington DC. He leads the Space Industry Study program analyzing global space industry dynamics and directs the Defense S&T Acquisition course within the Senior Acquisition Course. Formerly a Colonel in the U.S. Air Force, he specialized in space acquisition and served as Division Chief for advanced technology at the National Reconnaissance Office, managing space sensor development and payload programs like the Van Allen Probes mission.

Education: Ph.D. in Space Physics from Utah State University, Eisenhower School graduate (ICAF), and Senior Acquisition Course certification from Defense Acquisition University. Served as Visiting Scholar at Congressional Research Service analyzing space policy.

Research focuses on strategic defense technology acquisition, space industry trends, and national security strategy. His career bridges military operations, space policy, and academic leadership in defense education.

Awards include the National Reconnaissance Office Director’s Circle Award recognizing exceptional contributions.

His professional journey combines over 28 years of active duty Air Force service with current academic roles shaping defense acquisition education and space industry analysis.