Dean Cornwell grew up the second oldest in a large family in northern Ohio. He met his wife Barbara in Columbus, Ohio while attending school. They have 4 children

Dr. Cornwell earned his B.S. Engineering Physics and M.S. Electrical Engineeing from Ohio State University, and his Ph.D Physics from the University of Miami. He has spent over 40 years in the Aerospace and Defense industries in the areas of lasers and optics. He has taught courses in electronics, critical technology issues, system analysis and system engineering.

Personal interests include family stuff, golf when he can, beginning banjo and a passion for the history of science.