Background
Dan Irwin is a research scientist at the NASA Marshall Space Flight Center and the global program manager for SERVIR — a flagship NASA and US Agency for International Development (USAID) program with activities in over 40 countries throughout Eastern and Southern Africa, West Africa, the Hindu Kush Himalaya, lower Mekong and Amazonia regions.
He has over 25 years of experience in satellite remote sensing applications and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in the developing world. He also served as a lead remote sensing specialist in support of NASA’s space archeology program, with a focus on detecting structures of the ancient Maya. Prior to joining NASA, Dan lived and worked in Guatemala, developing leading GIS laboratories for conservation organizations and the Guatemalan government.
Dan received his undergraduate degree in environmental science from James Madison University in Harrisonburg, Virginia, and his master's degree in environmental science from Miami University of Ohio in Oxford. He is also the recipient of the 2021 Service to the Citizen Award, celebrating public servants who demonstrate excellence in delivery of services that impact the public's lives.
Outside of work, Dan develops and promotes small businesses in rural Central American villages to provide economic alternatives to local communities. He also designs and builds children’s libraries and playgrounds in rural villages in Guatemala.