Dr. Catalin Fotache is the FAA’s Chief Scientist and Technical Advisor (CSTA) for Propulsion Systems. In his role, he leads and collaborates within the FAA to promote the highest level of aerospace safety related to engines and propulsion systems, including turbine and reciprocating engines, electric and hybrid-electric propulsion systems, and high-speed (supersonic) propulsion systems.

Catalin’s aerospace engineering experience spans more than three decades. He spent more than two decades with Raytheon/United Technologies at the United Technologies Research Center (UTRC), serving multiple positions from Project Leader to Group Manager and Senior Strategy Manager, and later Senior Director, leading strategy, execution, and delivery of all R&D programs for Pratt & Whitney. Subsequent to his UTRC tenure, Catalin worked as an independent consultant for several large companies to increase their engineering effectiveness and grow through innovation. Most recent engagement involved setting up an R&D center in the EU for a major aerospace company.

Throughout his career, Catalin served on boards at multiple universities, committees, and institutes, as well as several professional affiliations. He holds ten issued patents, four pending, and has authored more than 30 publications. He is fluent in English, Romanian, French, and Italian.