College of Strategic Intelligence:

Dr. Vance R. Skarstedt joined the staff of the NIU in 2007. After graduating from the United States Air Force Academy, Dr. Skarstedt completed an Air Force career that included several years flying in the RF-4 Reconnaissance Aircraft, intelligence collections coordination, and teaching history at the Air Force Academy and the University of Maryland overseas campus. He holds a Ph.D. in history from Florida State University as well as a Master of Science from the University of Southern California.

School of Science and Technology Intelligence:

Dr. Brian R. Shaw joined the University in 2007 and established the NIU School of Science and Technology Intelligence in 2010. He was also instrumental with the introduction of a new graduate degree, the Master of Science and Technology Intelligence, to help intelligence officers study and research critical issues addressing science and technology.

Dr. Shaw received his B.S. from Western Michigan University in 1973, M.S. from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, in 1975, and a Ph.D. from Syracuse University in 1978. His principal areas of study were geology and mathematics. After serving briefly as a lecturer at the University College at Syracuse University, he joined the petroleum industry in a variety of research, development and exploration positions. He later formed and was the managing partner of an energy-consulting firm in Houston, Texas. In 1991 Dr. Shaw joined the Department of Energy's Pacific Northwest National Laboratory in Richland, Washington and Washington, DC. Dr. Shaw was a Senior Advisor in the Field Intelligence Element where he managed several research and special programs. Dr. Shaw also served as a Senior Analyst in the DCI Environmental Center and as Senior Advisor in the Analysis Group of the CIA Information Operations Center. He was subsequently appointed to the National Intelligence Council as Deputy National Intelligence Officer for Science and Technology.