LUKE T. GIFFORD
Wichita,Kansas
Summary
Results-driven Systems Engineering Manager with over 20 years of expertise in enhancing operational efficiency and developing effective training programs. Experienced in cross-functional collaboration and contract management, led initiatives that streamlined processes and ensured mission support in challenging circumstances. Focused on fostering workforce capabilities and driving performance management.
Overview
30
30
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Manager, Systems Engineering
RTX
Wichita, KS
10.2006 - Current
- Managed critical operations and transitions for Full Motion Video (FMV) and High-Altitude (HA) missions, site and facility moves, and contract restructuring from CFS, DMSMP, DGFS, and DSFS, ensuring seamless execution and operational readiness.
- Led technical initiatives, including multiple Bulk Release Upgrades, L3 CICS SIGINT platform and sensor integration, OA/X86 Ground System transition, and development of Script Creation processes to enhance Configuration Management and drive enterprise-wide efficiency.
- Collaborated with program management and field engineering teams to ensure contractual compliance and accurate financial forecasting, enhancing team engagement and contributing to strategic initiatives, including business capture efforts and cross-functional "Tiger Teams."
3D172 Network Infrastructure
Kansas Air National Guard
03.2004 - 03.2019
- Contributed to the Unit's first Distributed Common Ground System Weapons System Installation by configuring and maintaining servers, routers, switches, and Unix workstations, ensuring operational readiness.
- Developed and implemented comprehensive training plans for unit training assembly weekends, integrating on-the-job training and classroom presentations to improve unit readiness.
- Acted as Unit Career Advisor, liaising between the Commander and unit members to address retention concerns and foster strong relationships.
- Led the 284th Air Support Operations Squadron as 1st Sergeant to enhance welfare, morale, and health of enlisted personnel. Advised and assisted the Commander in maintaining discipline, standards, and unit training programs.
2512 Field Wireman
United States Marine Corps
09.1995 - 09.2000
- Supervised planning, installation, operation, and maintenance of communications network infrastructure for 10+ deployment exercises, ensuring seamless communication across all units.
- Led communication teams during Kosovo Campaign, ensuring effective communication support for 1st Battalion 6th Marines.
- Trained Marines in communications duties, physical training, and weapons qualifications, enhancing unit readiness and discipline.
- Conducted physical training, uniform inspections, and barracks inspections, maintaining high standards of discipline and operational readiness.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Information Technology
Southwestern College
Master’s - Cybersecurity Policy
George Washington University
Skills
- GEOINT/SIGINT
- Cyber/Information Security
- Performance management
- Contract management/compliance
- Training development
- Cross-functional collaboration
- Financial forecasting
Certification
• Security Plus
• CORE Champion
• Six Sigma
• CR-CEVM Earned Value
• CORE Champion
• Six Sigma
• CR-CEVM Earned Value
Security Clearance
Top Secret/SCI (TSSCI) Clearance
Timeline
Manager, Systems Engineering
RTX
10.2006 - Current
3D172 Network Infrastructure
Kansas Air National Guard
03.2004 - 03.2019
2512 Field Wireman
United States Marine Corps
09.1995 - 09.2000
Bachelor of Science - Information Technology
Southwestern College
Master’s - Cybersecurity Policy
George Washington University