Who We Are
Christophe Combemale, PhD
CEO, Principal Partner
Professor Christophe Combemale is both the founder and owner of Valdos Consulting, and Assistant Research Professor at Carnegie Mellon University’s Department of Engineering & Public Policy. Dr. Combemale applies his interdisciplinary research and his experience in operations management, engineering, workforce demand, and economics to develop scalable, repeatable solutions for both government and private-sector clients.
Patrick Funk, PhD
Associate Partner, Senior Consultant
Balancing comprehensive technical expertise with leadership in diverse settings, Dr. Patrick Funk brings a unique blend of decision science, machine learning, and economic modeling skills to Valdos Consulting. His experience spans from leading advanced manufacturing efforts to researching machine learning algorithms.
Dustin Ferrone, MSSE
Lead Systems Engineer, Senior Consultant
Dustin Ferrone is a seasoned data scientist with expertise in operations engineering. He is dedicated to enhancing data-driven process improvements. Dustin excels in systems analysis, project management, and cutting-edge predictive risk-modeling techniques. He is an expert at moving seamlessly from detailed engineering design questions to the implications for project direction and vision.
Lindsey Lacey, PhD
Economist, Senior Consultant
Dr. Lindsey Lacey is an economist and data scientist with expertise in causal inference and predictive modeling. She is dedicated to delivering rigorous, evidence-based solutions for complex decision-making challenges. Dr. Lacey excels in econometric analysis and predictive risk modelling, with a focus on creating transparent, interpretable solutions that enable inclusive, stakeholder-driven decision-making.
Shantanu Samant, MSPPM
Associate Consultant
Shantanu Samant brings skills deeply rooted in data analytics, machine learning and programming, blending academic grounding with hands-on experience. He has successfully executed projects from developing AI-enhanced educational platforms to sophisticated data analytics in public policy and commercial environments, showcasing his dedication to using data for effective decision-making.
John Sinclair, BS Applied Mathematics
Associate Consultant
John blends mathematics, statistics and data science to navigate complex, human-focused decision spaces. His work includes modeling risk across diverse infrastructure portfolios, steering analytic frameworks for capital allocation, and security policy. Committed to continuous improvement, John drives iterative process refinement, strict validation, and methodological rigor.