Dr. Ashok Prajapati is an acclaimed aerospace technology leader with over 20 years of experience driving innovations in flight software, autonomous robotics, and cutting-edge space computing architectures. As Program Manager at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center for the Core Flight System (cFS), NASA’s premier flight software framework, Dr. Prajapati oversaw multi-million dollars in program safety and cybersecurity initiatives while pioneering advancements to extend mission capabilities for next-generation space exploration.

Dr. Prajapati holds a Ph.D. in Electrical and Computer Engineering specializing in AI/ML, and has earned widespread recognition for blending technical expertise with visionary organizational leadership. His prior roles include serving as Software Area Manager for General Dynamics, where he led autonomous capability development, strategic cross-divisional collaborations, and key contributions to Department of Defense programs. He has also held leadership positions across global brands like General Motors, Fiat Chrysler, and FANUC, where he drove software innovations in electric vehicles, industrial robotics, and factory automation devices—resulting in multiple patents.

With 30+ peer-reviewed publications in prestigious journals and conferences, Dr. Prajapati has established himself as an innovation powerhouse. His patents include breakthroughs in intelligent messaging systems, variable change analysis, and dynamic factory automation solutions. A recognized leader in software architecture, he has contributed to groundbreaking efforts in object detection systems using camera, lidar, and radar sensors, as well as optimized perception systems for self-driving vehicles.

Dr. Prajapati is deeply committed to fostering cross-agency collaboration, training future technical leaders, and advancing systems that balance technological ambition with safety and performance. He has received numerous accolades, including NASA’s Special Act Awards, Robert H. Goddard Award of Merit, the Product Development Lead Award, the Center Director’s Award, and the Craig R. Tooley Award for Collaborative Excellence. He also received the Distinguished Alumni Achievement Award from Oakland University, becoming the first engineer in the university’s history to earn this honor. As a Senior Member of IEEE and AIAA, his thought leadership shapes the current and future landscape of engineering disciplines worldwide.

Today, Dr. Prajapati stands as a transformational leader bridging the worlds of research, innovation, software systems, and aerospace technology—all with a steadfast commitment to advancing humanity’s frontiers in exploration and discovery.