Cody Wayne Burkhart is an accomplished aerospace engineer, neuroscientist, and innovation strategist with nearly two decades at NASA’s Johnson Space Center. With dual Bachelor of Science degrees in Aerospace Engineering Sciences and Mechanical Engineering from the University of Colorado at Boulder and an M.S. in Neuroscience & Behavior from the University of Houston–Clear Lake, Cody’s expertise spans human-technology integration, biomechanical analysis, and advanced human performance optimization. 

As the Flight Project Manager for the Advanced Resistive Exercise Device (ARED) and the Knowledge Reaper Asset in a Kinetic Network (KRAKN) aboard the International Space Station, Cody spearheads initiatives that advance astronaut health, exercise analytics, and overall mission readiness. In his capacity as Chief of the HumanWorks Lab, he collaborates with organizations such as DARPA, TRISH, multiple branches of the Department of Defense (including the U.S. Air Force, U.S. Space Force, and SOCOM), the Defense Health Agency (DHA), and the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU), as well as with leading universities worldwide. His work includes developing immersive AR/VR prototypes, wearable sensing technologies, galvanic vestibular stimulation applications, and breathwork systems that push the boundaries of human potential in extreme environments. 

Cody’s impact extends beyond the lab: he has mentored over 150 interns, organized large-scale problem-solving conferences and think-tank sessions, and hosted regular Subject Matter Expert talks to keep innovation ecosystems thriving—even during global disruptions. He also serves as a Catalyst embedded within NASA’s Space Technology Mission Directorate, leveraging cutting-edge tools and partnerships to accelerate technology readiness. 

Beyond NASA, Cody is the Co-Founder and Managing Director of Anthropy Partners and helps guide the Anthropy Constructive—a nonprofit, mycelium-like digital ecosystem connecting performance labs, healthcare facilities, athletic programs, and research institutions. Through these ventures, he aims to democratize critical human health data, empower truly personalized healthcare solutions, and support initiatives in youth sports and women’s health. 

Cody’s career reflects a profound commitment to advancing human performance both in space and on Earth. By uniting engineering, neuroscience, and cross-sector collaboration, he continually explores new frontiers in human-technology interaction, shaping a future where optimized human potential can thrive in any environment.