Over the course of a 30+ year career, Mr. Dumbacher has been involved in major development, operations, and test programs spanning from the Space Shuttle era to the current Orion and Space Launch System of NASA. In this seminar, Mr. Dumbacher will discuss his vision for preparing engineering students for the technical and global challenges of the 21st Century.  He will discuss how a mastery of engineering’s technical foundations is only one component of a larger approach he frames as Total Systems Thinking. He will define the key elements of Total Systems Thinking and review the skills necessary to address strategic 21^st century questions.  Finally, he will outline how Total Systems Thinking can influence the unique opportunities presented by the Purdue Systems Initiative.

Mr. Dumbacher is currently responsible for the overall management and integration of the Space Launch System and the Orion spacecraft: the first human mission to Mars. Prior to his position at NASA Headquarters, Mr. Dumbacher led the Marshall Space Flight Center Engineering Directorate.  During his career, Mr. Dumbacher has had significant roles in the Space Shuttle Main Engine, DC-XA, X-33, X-37, Space Shuttle Return to Flight, and Ares/Constellation programs. His vast experience at NASA; involving all levels of systems engineering, his work with Congress and the White House, the Department of Defense, the U.S. Air Force, U.S. and international universities, as well as private industry, provide a unique and valuable perspective for students, faculty and administration.