Darrell S Crowe

Lt Col Darrell S. Crowe, PhD, is an Assistant Professor of Aerospace Engineering in the Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics at the Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT), part of the Graduate School of Engineering and Management at Air University. He is an active military officer and educator contributing to advanced aerospace research and graduate education within the U.S. Air Force.

Education:

• PhD in Aeronautical Engineering, Air Force Institute of Technology, 2014
• MS in Aeronautical Engineering, Air Force Institute of Technology, 2008
• BS in Aerospace Engineering, Texas A&M University, 2003

Dr. Crowe's research focuses on propulsion aerodynamics, computational fluid dynamics (CFD), supersonic and hypersonic flows, jet interaction effects, and store separation dynamics. His work involves high-fidelity simulations of exhaust nozzles, thermal distortion modeling, and active flow control, often in collaboration with military and aerospace applications. He investigates complex phenomena such as hot streaks in serpentine nozzles, film cooling, and cavity acoustics, contributing to improved aircraft and propulsion system design.

His recent publications demonstrate a strong trend in advancing CFD methodologies for defense-related aerospace problems, particularly in propulsion-airframe integration, weapon bay aerodynamics, and supersonic/hypersonic flow control. The articles span both experimental validation and numerical modeling, emphasizing accuracy, turbulence modeling, and multi-physics coupling in extreme environments.

Scientific Awards and Honors:

• AFIT Dean's Distinguished Teaching Professor, 2023
• AIAA Associate Fellow, 2020
• Air Force Meritorious Service Medal (2018, 2021)
• Joint Service Commendation Medal, 2017
• Southwestern Ohio Council for Higher Education Faculty Excellence Award, 2015
• Field Grade Officer of the Quarter, Air University, 2015
• Air Force Commendation Medal, 2011
• Company Grade Officer of the Quarter (2005, 2009)
• Air Force Achievement Medal, 2006

Dr. Crowe advises MS thesis students in aerospace engineering and teaches graduate-level courses in his domain. He has been involved in flight testing and simulation projects, often funded through U.S. Air Force research programs. His work supports critical defense capabilities in aircraft performance, propulsion efficiency, and weapon system integration.

He is actively involved in professional organizations such as the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) and contributes to major conferences and workshops, including the Propulsion Aerodynamics Workshops. His research is conducted within AFIT’s advanced simulation and modeling environment, leveraging tools like Kestrel and BCFD for high-fidelity analysis.