Nicholas A Olson

Major Nicholas A. Olson is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at the Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT), part of Air University within the U.S. Air Force. He is affiliated with the Graduate School of Engineering and Management, where he contributes to advanced education and research in electrical and aerospace systems.

Education:

• B.S., Electrical Engineering, Iowa State University of Science and Technology, 2005
• M.S., Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 2008
• Ph.D., Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 2011
• M.S., Flight Test Engineering, Air University, 2014

His research focuses on electrical engineering with applications in flight test engineering, electrostatic discharge in integrated circuits, and sensor systems. His work bridges theoretical design and real-world aerospace testing environments, particularly in platforms like JSTARS, Global Hawk, and aerial refueling systems. His expertise includes mixed-voltage circuit design and system-level failure analysis in advanced packaging technologies.

No recent publications are listed in the provided text, so no publication trends can be analyzed at this time.

Scientific Awards:

• No awards listed in the provided text.

Major Olson has held significant leadership and technical roles, including Deputy Branch Chief at the Sensors Directorate of the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), where he led a team of civilian researchers in sensing management. His career includes service as a Flight Test Engineer instructor at Test Pilot School and evaluator test conductor at the 418th Flight Test Squadron. These roles suggest involvement in training and mentorship, though no formal students are listed. There is no mention of research grants, but his leadership in AFRL implies experience with federally funded research programs.

He has been involved in key test and evaluation efforts for advanced aerial surveillance and combat systems, contributing to the development and validation of sensor and electronic systems within the U.S. Air Force. His work with the AGS-JTF and experience across multiple test squadrons highlight his integration into major defense technology teams.