Mark G. Reith

Dr. Mark G. Reith is an Assistant Professor of Computer Science at the Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT), part of the U.S. Air Force’s Air University. He is based at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, within the Graduate School of Engineering and Management. Dr. Reith holds a Ph.D. in Computer Science from the University of Texas at San Antonio (2009), an M.S. in Computer Science from AFIT (2003), and a B.S. in Computer Science from the University of Portland (1999).

• Ph.D., Computer Science, University of Texas at San Antonio, 2009
• M.S., Computer Science, Air Force Institute of Technology, 2003
• B.S., Computer Science, University of Portland, 1999

Dr. Reith's research focuses on cybersecurity, cyber education, game-based learning, and multi-domain operations. He investigates operational cybersecurity in space systems, software factories, and military training through serious games. His work emphasizes trust management, cyber risk assessment, and defense acquisition innovation. He actively promotes STEM outreach and cyber workforce development within the Department of Defense.

His recent publications reflect a strong trend in defense-oriented cybersecurity research, particularly in the domains of space system security, military software acquisition, and gamified cyber training. Articles span journals such as Air & Space Operations Research, Defense Acquisition Research Journal, and International Journal of Serious Games, highlighting interdisciplinary work bridging computer science, military strategy, and education.

Dr. Reith has received notable recognition, including:

• AFA Colonel Charles A. Stone Award (2023)
• DAF Outstanding STEM Outreach Champion Award (2023)
• AFIT Team of the Quarter (2017)
• Bernard A. Schriever Essay Contest Winner (2017)

He has advised numerous graduate students, many of whom are co-authors on his publications, particularly in the areas of cyber risk, space cybersecurity, and educational games. Dr. Reith has also contributed to research grants and initiatives focused on improving cyber hygiene, military IoT security, and multi-domain command and control. He is a frequent invited speaker on topics such as game-based learning and industry-academia collaboration in cybersecurity.

Dr. Reith is actively involved in research labs and teams at AFIT, particularly those focused on cyber education, serious games (e.g., Battlespace Next), and operational cybersecurity. His work often involves collaboration with students and faculty across engineering, systems, and defense domains.