Educational Background
Dr. Christopher Shove boasts an impressive academic background, underpinned by a Ph.D. in Urban & Regional Planning from Florida State University (1988). His doctoral research focused on international development, integrating both social science and civil engineering theories and methodologies. Prior to this, he earned a Master of Arts in City & Regional Planning from Clemson University, specializing in regional economic development. Dr. Shove’s academic journey began with a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from the University of North Carolina at Wilmington, laying a strong foundation for his future contributions to the field.
Professional Education
Dr. Shove’s commitment to continuous learning is evident through his participation in numerous professional education programs. These include “Teaching with Simulations” at the S.P. Jain Institute of Management & Research, Harvard Business Publishing (2021), and the “US Army Foreign Service Advisers Program” (2011), among others. These programs have equipped him with advanced skills in leadership, management, and simulation-based teaching, enhancing his ability to train and advise effectively.
Professional Experience
Simwerx LLC (2021-present)
As President of Simwerx LLC, Dr. Shove leads an international team in the production of computer simulations that integrate social science theories with science, technology, and engineering for educational purposes. His role involves design, coding, and the integration of these simulations into executable programs, which are sold globally.
Xtreme Habitats Institute (2020-2021)
In his capacity as Executive Director and Advisor, Dr. Shove conducted research and assessed technologies for 3D concrete printing of housing in Arctic Alaska, based on NASA’s lunar habitat plans. He supervised contracts with the Pennsylvania State University Engineering Department, funded by the Alaska Housing Finance Corporation and the U.S. Denali Commission.
Missouri Western State University (2020-2022)
Serving as an Adjunct Instructor in the Engineering Technology Department, Dr. Shove wrote and secured NASA grants for scholarships, seminars, and computer programming initiatives related to NASA’s Artemis Mission to the Moon. Dr. Shove acquired the largest federal grant for the university to build a technology business incubator.
Consultant (1990-2021)
Over three decades, Dr. Shove has been a consultant for various regional development projects, conducting research, writing presentations, and securing grants for new ventures. His clients include governments, NGOs, and firms in the USA, Ukraine, Poland, Romania, and Russia.
Westat (2019)
As a Data Collector, Dr. Shove conducted research interviews for the National Health and Aging Trends Study for Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, covering northern Kansas City, Missouri.
The 27 Committee, Inc. (2016-2018)
Dr. Shove led this non-profit corporation in researching and reporting on the economic impact of Fort Leavenworth, KS, and the U.S. Army on the Kansas City Metropolitan area. He acquired pledges for a Global Security Innovation Center aimed at educating military service members and veterans.
E9 Enterprises (2015-2016)
As an Economic Liaison, Dr. Shove implemented a U.S. Veterans Affairs program to encourage Kansas City firms to hire veterans and collaborated with regional higher education institutions to improve veteran enrollment.
Montana Business Assistance Connection (2013-2015)
In this role, Dr. Shove directed a non-profit corporation providing business loans and technical analysis. He negotiated the cleanup and sale of a polluted industrial site, contributing significantly to the state’s capital development.
US Army (2011-2012)
As a Senior Social Scientist, Dr. Shove conducted research and analysis in Afghanistan, supporting counter-insurgency operations. His work earned him the Commander’s Medal and the Global War on Terrorism Medal.
Zayed University (2009-2011)
As the Founding Executive Director of the Institute for Community Engagement, Dr. Shove established a financially self-sufficient institute in the UAE, providing workforce training and technical assistance to various national and international clients.
Alfaisal University (2008-2009)
In his role as Senior Vice Provost Academic Affairs and Interim Dean of the Business College, Dr. Shove played a pivotal role in the academic and operational development of this new research university in Saudi Arabia.
Western Institute, Missouri Western University (2004-2008)
Dr. Shove served as the Founding Dean, leading a financially self-sufficient institute that provided continuing education and technical assistance, implementing numerous courses and research centers.
University of Toledo (2001-2004)
As Director and Associate Professor, Dr. Shove directed the Center for Geographic Information Sciences and Applied Geography, leading student teams in social science analysis using GIS technology.
Space Data Systems (2000-2002)
Dr. Shove founded and led this venture, developing urban information systems using high-resolution satellite imagery for urban research.
University of Oklahoma (1990-2000)
As Associate Professor and Chairman of the Regional & City Planning Division, Dr. Shove prepared and taught courses, implemented gaming simulations, and acquired federal grants for university research centers.
Florida Department of Commerce (1987-1989)
As an Economic Analyst and later Director of the Office of Space Programs, Dr. Shove conducted economic analyses and planned the first U.S. commercial spaceport.
Florida Economic Development Center (1983-1987)
While pursuing his Ph.D., Dr. Shove supervised a team of graduate students conducting economic development studies and providing business technical assistance.
Military Service
Dr. Shove served as a First Lieutenant in the Corps of Engineers and Air Defense Artillery in the Army National Guard (1977-1985) and as a Sergeant in the U.S. Marines (1971-1974), receiving an honorable discharge and approval for military service-connected disability by the U.S. Veterans Affairs.
Courses Taught
Dr. Shove has taught a wide range of courses across multiple institutions, including Introduction to Sociology, Regional Analysis and Development, Geographic Information Systems, and various courses on city and regional planning. His extensive teaching experience spans undergraduate and graduate levels, both in-person and online.