Programs What are Dr. Griffin's degrees and educational background?

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The discussion centers on Dr. Michael D. Griffin's extensive academic background, which includes multiple degrees in various fields, including physics, aerospace engineering, and civil engineering. Participants express a mix of admiration and skepticism regarding the value of accumulating multiple degrees, particularly after achieving a Ph.D. Some question the necessity of pursuing additional degrees in unrelated fields, suggesting that it may reflect a desire for knowledge or a way to avoid real-world responsibilities. The conversation touches on the balance between formal education and self-study, with some arguing that a Ph.D. should suffice for learning independently. Comparisons are made to notable figures in aerospace engineering, emphasizing that practical achievements can sometimes outweigh academic credentials. The thread also humorously speculates on the motivations behind such extensive education and the potential for academic pursuits to become a form of escapism. Overall, the dialogue reflects a broader contemplation of the purpose and practicality of higher education in relation to career success and personal fulfillment.
  • #31
What an appalling waste of time on getting degrees. So, he's read a bunch of books, and wrote some papers.

Why is this impressive? What significant research has he actually done? What industry projects has he actually made?

This is a good example of what NOT to do.

Why would you get a PhD in aerospace and then get an MSc in Civil engineering? Do you plan on making a sky scraper fly?
 
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  • #32
my plan:

1) about to get my BS in Physics
2) MS in Electrical/Electronic Engineering (control theory or computer engineering probably)
3) Biomedical Optics Engineering degree
4) PhD in Optics / Applied Optics / Applied Quantum - something like that.

OR

stop at 2) and go into renewable energies career
 
  • #33
Cyrus said:
Why would you get a PhD in aerospace and then get an MSc in Civil engineering? Do you plan on making a sky scraper fly?
haha. A thread on the possibilities could be made.
 
  • #34
Maybe he's more ambitious than I give credit for and wants to put it into orbit?
 
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  • #35
maybe he wants to build the first commercial docking bay for a space station on the moon
 
  • #36
He's spent nearly 27 years in college for Graduate studies.

Meanwhile, Kelly Johnson (The Godfather) of Aerospace Engineering only had a Masters Degree from Michigan, but designed the:

Lockheed:
Electra
Constellation
SR-71 Blackbird
U-2 Spy Plane
F104
P-38
F-80
C-130
Jetstar (which started the small bizjet industry)

And the list goes on...and these are all iconic airplanes. I haven't even included his awards (which number 44) which include two collier trophies (Highest awards you can get in Aerospace).

I'm not impressed by all this guys book learning.
 
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  • #37
Pythagorean said:
maybe he wants to build the first commercial docking bay for a space station on the moon

I hope he isn't wasting my tax dollars on such a stupid notion.
 
  • #38
Cyrus said:
He's spend nearly 27 years in college for Graduate studies.

Meanwhile, Kelly Johnson (The Godfather) of Aerospace Engineering only had a Masters Degree from Michigan, but designed the:

Lockheed:
Electra
Constellation
SR-71 Blackbird
U-2 Spy Plane
F104
P-38
F-80
C-130
Jetstar (which started the small bizjet industry)

And the list goes on...and these are all iconic airplanes. I haven't even included his awards (which number 44) which include two collier trophies (Highest awards you can get in Aerospace).

I'm not impressed by all this guys book learning.

My first impulse was one of amazement at this guy's "paper background", however stated like this, I realize that I fully agree with you.
 
  • #39
phyzmatix said:
My first impulse was one of amazement at this guy's "paper background", however stated like this, I realize that I fully agree with you.
People always have similar reactions to the people who hold record for highest iq like
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marilyn_vos_Savant

I especially like the section on Fermats Last Theorem.
 
  • #40
Cyrus said:
I hope he isn't wasting my tax dollars on such a stupid notion.

or a flying skyscraper, for that matter...
 

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