Thomas Stafford is the Senior Technical Specialist (STS) for Data Analytics and Tools in the FAA's Office of Senior Technical Experts (AIR-20). Stafford has over 35 years of experience in aircraft certification, continued operational safety, and aviation safety data analytics. His background includes work as a certification engineer, program manager, section manager, branch manager, and leader of critical safety initiatives across multiple FAA offices.

Stafford supports organizational safety processes, technology and operational safety activities by applying data-driven approaches to aviation safety challenges. He works to promote consistent application of safety standards and collaborates with industry partners, foreign civil aviation authorities, and internal FAA stakeholders to advance safety through data integration and analytics modernization.

Prior to his work as a Senior Technical Specialist, Stafford held several key positions within the FAA, including Acting Manager in the Aviation Safety Organization Designation Authorization (ODA) Office, where he worked to mature the organization and meet strategic goals. He also led a cross-organizational team responding to congressional mandates on engine safety following the Southwest Airlines Flight 1380 incident, which sparked his advocacy for data analytics in aviation safety. His professional experience includes 12 years at The Boeing Company, where he served as a designated engineering representative in Boeing Commercial Airplane and as a structures engineer in the Space & Communication Divisions.

Stafford earned a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from Washington State University. He holds a patent for an Energy-absorbing safety device compliant to aircraft passenger injury criteria.