Kenneth W. Wisian

Dr. Kenneth W. Wisian serves as Associate Director of the Environmental Division at the Bureau of Economic Geology (BEG), part of the University of Texas at Austin's Jackson School of Geosciences. A distinguished geophysicist with a unique background combining military leadership and scientific expertise, he previously served as a Major General in the USAF (retired) and held senior state executive positions responsible for disaster recovery, oil spill prevention, and coastal infrastructure protection in Texas.

His educational background includes:

• Ph.D. in Geophysics, Southern Methodist University, 1999
• M.S. in Strategic Studies, US Army War College, 2004
• M.S. in Geology, Centenary College of Louisiana, 1990
• Graduate, US Air Force Test Pilot School, 1990
• B.A. in Physics, University of Texas at Austin, 1982

Dr. Wisian's research spans diverse fields including geothermal systems, planetary geology, space exploration, infrastructure resiliency, and international relations. His work bridges traditional geoscience with cutting-edge applications in autonomy, drone technology, and applied gravity. His military career as a navigator/bombardier included flying bombers, transports and fighters, commanding the 147th Reconnaissance Wing flying the MQ-1 Predator, and participating in combat missions in Iraq, Afghanistan and Bosnia.

His publication record shows a fascinating evolution from traditional geothermal research in the 1990s toward increasingly interdisciplinary work connecting geoscience with space policy, interstellar flight planning, and extraterrestrial intelligence considerations in the 2010s and 2020s. This trajectory reflects his unique position at the intersection of earth sciences, national security, and space exploration.

His notable awards include:

• Fellow, British Interplanetary Society (2019)
• Bronze Star Medal for Afghanistan deployments (2005-2008)
• Air Medal for Iraq deployment (2003)
• Finalist for NASA biennial astronaut selection (1999)
• Roy M. Huffington Fellowship (1992-1999)

As a military officer, General Wisian led disaster response efforts for the Shuttle Columbia crash and multiple hurricanes. His current work at BEG coordinates environmental-related research, building on his extensive background in both scientific research and operational leadership. His interdisciplinary approach connects traditional geoscience with emerging fields like planetary geology and space policy, making significant contributions across multiple domains.