Timothy A. Kinnan
President
Wallace Lighthouse Consulting Group
MSAAE 1971
"In studying the discipline of engineering, we learn more than just engineering. We develop a way of thinking that applies to all facets of life. Disciplined, yet curious, and open to exploring new hypotheses, the engineer is the first to ask 'why not?' Although I have little practical experience in the engineering disciplines, I credit my engineering education for much of my success in both military and business careers."
Timothy Kinnan received his MSAAE from Purdue University in 1971. He is currently president of the Wallace Lighthouse Consulting Group. Kinnan served for 34 years in the United States Air Force, retiring with the rank of lieutenant general. During his military career he was a fighter pilot who commanded a squadron and two fighter wings, while also serving in key policy positions in the U.S. and overseas. He served as the Joint Chief's vice director for Strategic Plans and Policy, and as the U.S. Military Representative to NATO. From 2004 to 2007, Kinnan worked for Lockheed Martin as vice president for Integrated Warfighter Solutions. He also served as chief operating officer for Verihelion, an entrepreneurial startup in Canton, Georgia.
Kinnan has served as vice chairman of the Board of Directors for the Association for Enterprise Integration, as well as on the Executive Council of the Network Centric Operations Industry Consortium. He currently sits on the board of directors of the Air Force Historical Foundation. He is a senior member of the AIAA and a life member of the Order of Daedalians. On three separate occasions, Kinnan was awarded the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, the United States' highest peacetime defense award. He was the first recipient of the USAF Robinson Risner Trophy.