Torrey Wagner

Dr. Torrey Wagner serves as an Assistant Professor of Data Analytics at the Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT), where he supports the Data Analytics graduate certificate program. He develops and teaches core courses including DASC 522 Machine Learning, SATI 532 Data Visualization & Communication, and DASC 511 Object-Oriented Programming using Python. His instructional focus centers on applying data analytics techniques to solve military problems through the CRISP-DM process framework.

Dr. Wagner earned his PhD in Electrical Engineering with an Electro-optics focus from AFIT in 2010, an MS in Aerospace Systems Engineering from Loughborough University (UK) in 2004, and a BS in Electrical Engineering from the University of Minnesota in 2000. His educational background bridges electrical engineering, aerospace systems, and advanced data analytics.

His research concentrates on applying predictive and generative artificial intelligence techniques to enhance Department of Defense organizational efficiency and performance. Dr. Wagner's scholarly work spans machine learning applications for defense systems, energy optimization for military operations, quantum computing advancements, and natural language processing solutions for defense contexts. He has developed specialized methodologies for military problem-solving through data analytics, with emphasis on practical implementation in operational environments.

Dr. Wagner's publication record reveals a strategic evolution toward cutting-edge AI applications. Recent work demonstrates significant focus on large language models, retrieval-augmented generation systems, and quantum computing implementations. His research portfolio includes machine learning applications for aircraft engine cost prediction, satellite imagery analysis, seismic event classification, and energy system optimization for austere military environments. This work consistently bridges theoretical AI advances with tangible defense applications.

As an educator and mentor, Dr. Wagner has guided dozens of students through their first publications and presentations. His students frequently co-author peer-reviewed journal articles and conference papers, primarily at the master's level with several doctoral candidates. He has contributed to AI education within military contexts through his chapter "Augmenting a Curriculum Review with Generative AI" in the AFIT Generative AI Teaching Guidebook and other educational resources.

Dr. Wagner's research supports multiple AFIT initiatives focused on data analytics for defense applications. His work involves extensive collaboration with Department of Defense organizations to implement AI technologies in practical military settings, particularly in energy systems optimization, aircraft operations analytics, and decision support tools for commanders. Current projects include secure offline large language model implementations, quantum communication network resilience, and advanced data visualization techniques for military decision-making.