Dr. Donald Winter

Biography

Donald C. Winter is a Professor of Practice in Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering at the University of Michigan, where he teaches graduate-level courses in systems engineering, satellite design, and maritime policy. He previously served as the 74th United States Secretary of the Navy from January 2006 to March 2009, leading the Navy-Marine Corps team with a budget exceeding $125 billion and overseeing 900,000 personnel. Dr. Winter has extensive academic credentials including a B.S. in Physics from the University of Rochester, and both an M.S. and Ph.D. in Physics from the University of Michigan. His professional experiences include significant roles in the aerospace and defense industries, with a career spanning over three decades at companies such as TRW and Northrup Grumman. He also held leadership roles with the U.S. National Academy of Engineering and contributed to strategic defense initiatives including advising on the Royal Australian Navy's fleet and shipbuilding capabilities. Dr. Winter's contributions to academia and public service reflect a robust understanding of military and maritime affairs.

Research Interests

Courses