Michael P. O'Hara, Ph.D.

Chair Wargaming Department
Capt., U.S. Navy
Michael P O'Hara Profile Image

Biography

Michael O’Hara is a permanent military professor and career naval officer with operational and leadership experience in naval aviation and naval intelligence. His work focuses on strategy and emerging technologies. He teaches courses on strategy and war, game theory and decision making, and artificial intelligence for strategic leaders. He served as the associate dean for research integration supporting the naval analytic enterprise. His service at sea includes deployments aboard three aircraft carriers flying the S-3B Viking and leading air wing intelligence operations in support of combat in Afghanistan and maritime security operations in the Indian Ocean and Mediterranean regions.

Areas of Expertise

  • Deterrence
  • International Relations
  • Maritime Strategy

Professional Highlights

2020

Associate Dean, Center for Naval Warfare Studies

2016

Director, Future Warfighting Symposium

2014

Professor, Strategy and Policy Department

2010

Deputy Chair (Acting), Warfare, Analysis, and Research Department

Education

Ph.D., Columbia University, Political Science, Fields of Study: International Relations and Comparative Politics

M.Phil., Columbia University, Political Science

M.A., Columbia University, Political Science

M.A., University of Rhode Island, English Literature

M.A., U.S. Naval War College, National Security and Strategic Studies, Highest Distinction

B.S., U.S. Naval Academy, English, with Merit

Research Contributions and Publications

Awards and Decorations

Vice Admiral Thomas R. Weschler Award for Inspirational Teaching

External Memberships and Associations

Brown University's Watson Institute for International and Public Affairs
National Security Fellowship (2015-16)

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