Kaylee McDonald
Robotics Warfare at USN
Bremerton
4
years of professional experience
Mission-focused Robotics Warfare Specialist and autonomous systems leader providing systems engineering and system integration support for Large and Extra-Large AUV operations across the Robotics Experimentation Department and USS OHIO. Served as a Subject Matter Expert delivering technical oversight for UUV system integration, maintenance, troubleshooting, and mission readiness across eight platforms. Contributed 500+ hours of maintenance and 800+ hours of complex troubleshooting in support of three deployments and 12 operational exercises. Trained and qualified more than 400 Sailors, SEALs, and officers, strengthening workforce readiness and platform proficiency.
Work History
Large & Extra Large Diameter AUV System SME
1 Year 9 Months- Provided senior technical leadership and program-level oversight as a Subject Matter Expert (SME) within the Robotics Experimentation Department, overseeing system readiness, operational employment, and technical performance of eight Large and Extra-Large Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV) platforms supporting complex missions, experimentation, and operational requirements.
- Managed and prioritized maintenance, troubleshooting, and system-readiness requirements across an eight-platform AUV portfolio, applying 500+ hours of maintenance and 800+ hours of complex troubleshooting to diagnose systemic deficiencies, mitigate technical and operational risk, prioritize corrective actions, and sustain mission-capable systems.
- Directed technical readiness and operational support for three deployments and 12 major exercises, synchronizing maintenance, personnel, system availability, and mission requirements to resolve complex technical issues and ensure platforms met deployment timelines and operational objectives.
- Led technical training, qualification, and workforce development initiatives for 400+ Sailors, SEALs, and officers, establishing standardized AUV operational procedures and strengthening technical proficiency, personnel readiness, and organizational deployability across multiple autonomous systems.
Machinst Mate Auxiliary
2 Years 3 Months- Performed preventive and corrective maintenance on critical submarine life-support and auxiliary systems, restoring equipment to operational readiness and supporting crew safety.
- Diagnosed system deficiencies and troubleshot failures during routine and mission-critical operations, reducing downtime and maintaining continuous system availability.
- Operated and maintained submarine life-support systems in compliance with operational and safety requirements, ensuring reliable support for underway and in-port activities.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Mechanical Engineering
Degree in progress; expected graduation 2027.
Skills
Large/Extra-Large AUV Systems
Technical Program Oversight & System Integration
Operations & Mission Readiness Management
Risk Management & Operational Decision-Making
Program Management & Workforce Development
Resource Allocation & Asset Management
Strategic Leadership & Process Improvement
Accomplishments
- Recipient of two Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals (Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal) in recognition of superior performance, technical expertise, leadership, and significant contributions to mission accomplishment.
- Selected as Junior Sailor of the Year in recognition of exceptional technical performance, leadership, professionalism, and sustained contributions to organizational readiness and mission success.
Timeline
Large & Extra Large Diameter AUV System SME
Robotics Warfare at USN
11.2024 - CurrentRead More
Machinst Mate Auxiliary
USS OHIO at USN
08.2022 - 11.2024Read More
United States Naval Community College (USNCC)
Bachelor of Science from Mechanical Engineering
Read More
Security Clearance
- Top Secret , Bremerton
- Feb 2026