Derek Ashley Thomas

Derek Ashley Thomas is a highly experienced Senior Software Engineer with a strong background in materials engineering and computational research. Currently employed at Waymo since September 2021, Derek previously held similar positions at Cruise and Made In Space, Inc., where contributions included leading the development of remote hardware control software and architecting an asynchronous framework for command and data handling. Earlier career roles encompassed a Senior Materials Scientist position with NASA, where leadership occurred on the Archinaut Technology Development Project. Educational achievements include a Ph.D. and an MS in Materials Engineering from The University of Tokyo, complemented by a BS in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Virginia, highlighting expertise in both software development and materials science.