Cindy Ashforth is the Senior Technical Specialist (STS) for Advanced Composite Materials in the FAA’s Office of Senior Technical Experts (AIR-20). Ms. Ashforth has 30 years of experience testing and certifying composite structures as both a certification manager and a composite materials specialist. Her background includes testing and certification for propeller and general aviation manufacturers, along with certification and quality assurance work at an aviation equipment manufacturer. 

Ms. Ashforth assists in certification projects to apply consistent risk-based standards across all product types and contributes to continued operational safety activities related to advanced material applications. She writes requirements for FAA research on advanced materials and works closely with university and industry partners to promote standardization through industry organizations. 

Prior to her work as a Senior Technical Specialist, Ms. Ashforth was the International Branch Program Manager for the FAA’s Transport Directorate. Her professional experience also includes work for Epic Aircraft, Max-Viz Inc., The Lancair Company, the Natural Resources Research Institute, the McCauley Accessory Division, and the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratories. Ms. Ashforth earned a B.S. in Engineering Mechanics from the University of Wisconsin – Madison, and an M.S. in Materials Science and Engineering from Wright State University.