Richard M. Ierardi

Richard M. Ierardi (1988, 1996) is an engineering Fellow for Pratt & Whitney, a world leader in the design, manufacture, and service of aircraft gas turbine engines. Richard holds both a bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Electrical and Computer Engineering from the University of Connecticut. In his role at Pratt, he provides technical leadership to develop the processes, standards, and organizational skills needed for the development and deployment of safety-critical software for aerospace applications. His current job responsibilities include ensuring product quality, advancing methods and techniques, mentoring the next generation work force, identification and solving of technical problems, and interfacing and influencing industry standards and norms.

He has worked at Raytheon Technologies for his entire career, beginning at Collins Aerospace (formerly Hamilton Standard) and continuing at Pratt & Whitney. With 35 years of experience in the development of leading-edge military and commercial engine control systems, his experiences include design and development of digital electronic engine control and diagnostic hardware for the F-22, X-35, and F-35; on-site engine and flight test support; integration of propulsion system and aircraft control systems for the Joint Strike Fighter (2001 Collier Trophy Award); engine control software development and validation for the F-35 including the short take-off and vertical landing variant; and control system product leader for the first commercial certification of the geared turbo-fan product family of engines.  In addition, he is a member of SAE’S Electronic Engine Controls Committee since 2019. Ierardi was born and raised in Connecticut.