San Antonio, Texas, February 5, 2026
Southwest Research Institute (SwRI) in San Antonio, Texas, has appointed Dr. Barron Bichon as the new Vice President of its Mechanical Engineering Division and Dr. Stephen Fuselier as Vice President of its Space Science Division. These appointments are set to enhance SwRI’s focus on engineering innovation and space science advancements. Dr. Bichon, with a strong background in materials engineering, will guide over 400 staff members in mechanical projects. Meanwhile, Dr. Fuselier, an expert in heliophysics, is expected to lead groundbreaking research in solar and space physics.
San Antonio, Texas – Southwest Research Institute (SwRI) Announces Leadership Appointments
San Antonio, Texas – Southwest Research Institute (SwRI) has recently appointed Dr. Barron Bichon as Vice President of its Mechanical Engineering Division and Dr. Stephen Fuselier as Vice President of its Space Science Division. These strategic appointments aim to bolster SwRI’s leadership in engineering and space science research.
Dr. Barron Bichon Appointed Vice President of Mechanical Engineering Division
Dr. Barron Bichon has been promoted to Vice President of SwRI’s Mechanical Engineering Division. In this role, he will oversee more than 400 staff members engaged in research, development, testing, and evaluation across various projects. Dr. Bichon previously served as the director of SwRI’s Materials Engineering Department, bringing extensive experience to his new position. He expressed enthusiasm for leading the division, emphasizing a commitment to innovation, collaboration, and real-world impact. Dr. Bichon aims to ensure that every team member has the opportunity to build a career they can be proud of.
Dr. Stephen Fuselier Appointed Vice President of Space Science Division
Dr. Stephen Fuselier has been appointed Vice President of SwRI’s Space Science Division. With over 40 years of experience in heliophysics and significant contributions to multiple NASA missions, Dr. Fuselier is well-equipped to lead the division. He co-chaired the National Academies of Solar and Space Physics Decadal Survey, a key initiative shaping the future of solar and space physics research. Dr. Fuselier’s leadership is expected to drive SwRI’s Space Science Division toward pioneering scientific breakthroughs and deeper exploration of the heliosphere and planetary magnetospheres.
About Southwest Research Institute
Founded in 1947, Southwest Research Institute is an independent, nonprofit applied research and development organization headquartered in San Antonio, Texas. SwRI provides contract research and development services to government and industrial clients, addressing challenges from deep sea to deep space. The institute operates ten technical divisions, including Mechanical Engineering and Space Science, and employs over 3,000 staff members. SwRI’s diverse research areas encompass space science and engineering, automation, robotics, bioengineering, chemistry, and more.
Key Features of Southwest Research Institute
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Established | 1947 |
| Headquarters | San Antonio, Texas |
| Employees | Over 3,000 staff members |
| Technical Divisions | Ten divisions, including Mechanical Engineering and Space Science |
| Research Areas | Space science and engineering, automation, robotics, bioengineering, chemistry, and more |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who has been appointed as Vice President of SwRI’s Mechanical Engineering Division?
Dr. Barron Bichon has been appointed as Vice President of SwRI’s Mechanical Engineering Division.
Who has been appointed as Vice President of SwRI’s Space Science Division?
Dr. Stephen Fuselier has been appointed as Vice President of SwRI’s Space Science Division.
What is Southwest Research Institute?
Southwest Research Institute is an independent, nonprofit applied research and development organization headquartered in San Antonio, Texas.
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