Gregg Garrison

Highly experienced operational tester in AFOTEC Det 5, with over 22 years of proven success in leading cross-functional teams through numerous operational tests across diverse acquisition types. Pioneered the first operational test for an agile software acquisition within AFOTEC, enhancing processes to support iterative testing effectively. Spearheaded a groundbreaking proof of concept that enabled the first continuous operational test (COT) in AFOTEC, leveraging digital tools and technologies to provide Det 5 with on-demand testing capabilities. This extensive experience positions Det 5 to advance toward a modernized, rapid iterative testing framework that incorporates digital twins, modeling and simulation, and mission threads, aligning seamlessly with evolving Department of Defense and Air Force testing policies.

Continuous Monitoring Process Innovation:

Established and documented a critical process within the test strategy to ensure that each capability entering the agile software pipeline has a defined, developed, verified, and validated digital tools capability ready for OT. This innovative solution, presented at the ITT, was adopted by the program to be added to pipeline tasks, underscoring its value and impact.

Continuous Operational Test Trailblazing:

Spearheaded a groundbreaking initiative, trailblazing a one-of-a-kind, first proof of concept to facilitate the first continuous operational test in AFOTEC. This effort leveraged digital tools and technologies aligned with the DoD Software Modernization Strategy, vision, and intent. While this pilot program uncovered six challenges in leveraging capability to support Software Acquisition, those challenges were shared at the ITT, to align requirements and resources for the continuous monitoring communities. This leadership resulted in the program investing in continuous monitoring for test and enabling OT to inform decision makers anytime, expand the number of Systems Under Test (SUTs) evaluated at once, and reduce the OT resources.

Successful Program Exit Leadership:

Successful execution of two Final Operational Test and Evaluations, including multiple cyber events, which enabled AFOTEC to exit program involvement. Critically, all reports were delivered on time and met the needs of decision-makers, facilitating a smooth capability transition to operations. This achievement marked the first time AFOTEC had exited an agile software acquisition program for this acquisition pathway type. As a result of Employee's exceptional planning and leadership, AFOTEC was able to reinvest resources into other Det 5 priorities earlier than planned, demonstrating significant efficiency gains.

Department of the Air Force Award for Exemplary Civilian Service - Citation: In recognition of his distinguished performance as Distributed Common Ground System Program Manager, Air Force Operational Test and Evaluation Center, Detachment 5, Edwards Air Force Base, California from 1 November 2011 to 30 June 2025,  Mr. Garrison was keystone to the operational test and evaluation mission. As Lead Test Director for the Distributed Common Ground System, he trailblazed a proof of concept to facilitate the first continuous operational test, aligned with the DoD Software Modernization Strategy.  Additionally, he advised eleven network hardening strategies as well as eight security protocols at two Intelligence Wings; safeguarding system integrity, elevating security posture, and defending against malicious attack.  His efforts culminated with the final Operational Test report for the Distributed Common Ground System, closing more than 20 years of Air Force Operational Test. The distinctive accomplishments of Mr. Garrison reflect great credit upon himself and the Department of the Air Force.  Signed by Joseph O. Little, Colonel USAF, Air Force Operational Test and Evaluation Center