Kevin is a globally recognized expert in the aerospace manufacturing and MRO sectors, and has significant expertise in business-to-business marketing, customer satisfaction, M&A advisory, technology assessment, cluster development, and strategic planning. 
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Dr. Michaels has frequently been called upon by executives at leading aerospace OEMs, airlines, MRO providers, and investors to provide thorough independent assessments.
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Previously, Dr. Michaels was Vice President with ICF International’s Aerospace & MRO consulting practice from 2011 - 2016.  He was also a co-founder and partner with AeroStrategy from 2001-2011, until its acquisition by ICF. 
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Dr. Michaels was also the Director of Strategic Development with Rockwell Collins Government Systems, Principal with The Canaan Group, an aerospace consultancy. He began his career as a project engineer with aero-engine supplier Williams International.
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Since 2013, Kevin is a columnist for the Up Front feature of Aviation Week & Space Technology; he is also a contributing columnist to Inside MRO and Forbes.
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Dr. Michaels chairs the Industry Advisory Board for the University of Michigan’s Aerospace Engineering Department.
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In 2016, he joined the Board of Proponent, a leading aircraft parts distributor.
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Kevin authored Aerodynamic: Inside the High-Stakes Global Jetliner Ecosystem, winner of the 2019 Choice Outstanding Academic Title Award.
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In 2021, Dr. Michaels received the Gilbert W Speed Award for outstanding leadership and collaboration across the global aerospace and defense supply chain.