Convergent Knowledge Solutions Company Leadership




Tony Kern, Ed.D., is the CEO and Senior Partner of Convergent Knowledge Solutions. Dr. Kern is an internationally recognized expert in the field of human factors and pilot performance, and has been honored with numerous awards for research and program management, including the USAF Academy “McDermott Award for Research Excellence” (1998), the Aviation Week and Space Technology “Laurel Award” for Aviation Program Leadership (2002), and the Flight Safety Foundation “Outstanding Achievement Award” (2003) for his contributions to aviation safety. Tony is a retired USAF Command Pilot and a former professor and Director of Military History at the USAF Academy. He is the author of five books on pilot performance, including Redefining Airmanship, Flight Discipline, and Darker Shades of Blue: The Rogue Pilot. Lt Col Kern holds Masters Degrees in Public Administration and Military History as well as the Doctorate in Higher Education, specializing in human factors training design.



Pat Daily, M.S., is a Senior Partner and Executive Vice President of Convergent Knowledge Solutions. He is a graduate of the United States Air Force Academy and holds degrees in aeronautical and mechanical engineering. Mr. Daily was a fighter pilot and later a test pilot who assessed more than 50 different aircraft . He has managed technical support organizations with Six Sigma based systems for human space flight and served as a global CRM consultant bringing the aviation approach and applicable safety tools to large organizations across a wide range of industries. Prior to joining Convergent Knowledge Solutions, Pat was Director of Honeywell’s Defense and Space Electronic Systems Houston Engineering Center.





Christopher J. Lutat, B.S., is President of Convergent Knowledge Solutions Government and Aerospace Division. He is a graduate of the U. S. Coast Guard Academy and served the Coast Guard as a Search and Rescue Pilot and Instructor Pilot. He holds an Air Transport Pilot certificate and type ratings in several commercial aircraft. He has been a pioneer in bringing advanced technology procedures, interfaces, CRM and airmanship to organizations around the world. Mr. Lutat is a Captain and Instructor Pilot for a major global airline, operating wide-bodied, glass cockpit aircraft on world-wide routes.

Kenneth D. Stahl, M.D., F.A.C.S., is a board-certified cardiothoracic surgeon who has been involved in many aspects of clinical medicine and medical research for over 20 years. He is the author of over 75 publications and presentations on a variety of clinical and systems topics. Dr. Stahl has been one of the pioneers in the role of robotics and computer-assisted surgery in modern operating rooms and has taught numerous courses on robotic-assisted surgery as well as performed surgical procedures all over the world. He has developed simulator models to teach surgeons robotic and endoscopic techniques. He also is an FAA certified commercial pilot with type ratings in complex, high performance aircraft and has additional expertise in jet fighter acrobatic flight. He has held several clinical appointments and has worked to enhance safety in medical care delivery. Dr. Stahl practices surgery full-time and serves as a consultant to Convergent Knowledge Solutions on healthcare issues.