Dr. Russell Knight - Director, Artificial Intelligence

Dr. Russell Knight is the Artificial Intelligence Director at Family First Foundation, bringing more than 25 years of experience in AI research, automation, and mission planning from his distinguished career at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL). Throughout his tenure, Dr. Knight contributed to landmark missions such as the Mars Science Laboratory, Cassini Titan exploration, and the International Space Station—developing pioneering systems that allowed spacecraft to operate with greater autonomy and precision.

At Family First, Dr. Knight leverages his deep expertise in heuristic search algorithms, multi-asset coordination, and autonomous decision-making to strengthen the Foundation’s programs, operations, and long-term strategies. His vision for AI centers is not only on innovation, but also on responsibility—ensuring that Family First integrates emerging technologies ethically, transparently, and with equity at the forefront. He is guiding the Foundation in building AI frameworks that protect communities, respect privacy, and expand access to high-quality education and opportunity.

Dr. Knight also plays a vital role in Family First’s educational mission, helping design initiatives that teach students and families how to use AI responsibly. He advises on a curriculum that introduces young learners to the promise of AI while instilling strong ethical guardrails, preparing them to become thoughtful leaders in a rapidly changing technological world. His work emphasizes the importance of fairness, accountability, and human-centered design in every AI application the Foundation explores.

Previously, Dr. Knight served as Principal Technologist at JPL, where he pioneered advanced planning systems such as ASPEN, CASPER, and CLASP—tools that supported both deep-space exploration and defense studies. He earned his Ph.D. in Computer Science from UCLA and has received multiple NASA and JPL awards recognizing his groundbreaking contributions to automated systems and space exploration.

Beyond his professional career, Dr. Knight is a dedicated STEM advocate. He volunteers with Scouting America and has served as an arbiter for the Glendale Scholastic Bowl, inspiring the next generation of innovators and problem-solvers. His work at Family First continues that legacy, bringing world-class AI expertise and an unwavering commitment to ethical technology into the service of families and communities.