A Conversation with

Robert C. Hampshire *07

Moderated by

William A. Massey ’77

Edwin S. Wilsey Professor, ORFE

Key Biographical Information for Dr. Hampshire

• ORFE PhD in 2007
• Associate Professor, University of Michigan
  • Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy
  • Transportation Research Institute
  • Michigan Institute for Data Science
• Former Chief Science Officer for the US Department of Transportation (2021-2024)

Abstract:  During this session, I will share several in-depth case studies of National significance on the role of innovation in roadway safety, aviation safety, supply chain disruptions, and unmanned aerial systems (UAS) drones.   Based on first hand experiences from leading the US Department of Transportation research and technology enterprise, I will highlight the role that a mission-focused approach to innovation can play in addressing some of our most important societal challenges.  In order to eliminate transportation fatalities, pollution and carbon emissions, and to serve all travels a collaborative multi-stakeholder, multi-industry approach is required.  We took this approach during my time as a political appointee and senior leader in the US Department of Transportation during the Biden-Harris administration.