Michael Zmuda
Las Cruces,NM
Summary
The dynamics of technology, constrained resources, emerging threats, opportunities, and an ever-changing workforce have ignited my passion to continually seek better ways of doing business—continually improving efficiencies and effectiveness to meet the national security strategic mission in an ever-changing environment. My proven track history has demonstrated my knowledge, skills and ability to build effective Service/Agency/International/Academic/Private Sector/State/Local government coalitions, develop and execute strategic plans and goals, improve technology, promote innovation, and ensure continuous process improvements to reduce unnecessary red tape, meet schedules, enhance research innovation, and reduce costs.
Overview
36
36
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Senior Engineer
National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA), Sandia Field Office (SFO)
Kirtland AFB, NM
07.2023 - Current
- Developed special strategic approaches for SFO to align SFO with NNSA Strategic Plan while increasing efficacy and efficiencies.
- Integrated AI to Increase Mission Effectiveness
Director, Complex Management Team and Program Manager (detail)
National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA), Sandia Field Office (SFO)
Kirtland AFB, NNMew Mexico
07.2022 - 07.2023
- Provided senior level leadership, strategic vision, technology & project management, facility management, contract management, construction management, requirements development, mission with senior level executive details, safety, security, planning, programming, budget, and execution functions.
- Led multiple Integrated Project Teams to resolve complex issues of security, safety, and complex technical capabilities.
Director, Directorate of Research & Technology
US Army Space and Missile Defense Command Technical Center (SMDTC)
Huntsville, AL
01.2021 - 07.2022
- Executive level leadership, strategic vision, and technical oversight for the US Army Science and Technology for Hypersonics, Directed Energy (DE), Space & High-Altitude Applications, and Integrated Space, Air, and Missile Defense (ISAMD) with direct US Army support to USSTRATCOM/USSPACECOM.
- Led three technical directorates (DE, Space, and Research Directorates) which developed the technologies and transitions for use within the US Army. Developed an SMDC S&T Vision and Strategy, as well as the first Integrated Strategic Technology Roadmap to ensure a relevant, resourced, and responsive transition of enabling and game changing technologies, saving over $100M and >3 years transitions to warfighters.
- Led teams in evaluation of highly technical, state-of-the-art projects and provided advice on the health, state, and level of technical readiness of these complex technical projects to Army Futures Command senior leadership (3-star GOs) – resulting in endorsement. Developed test capabilities/facilities to support associated Science & Technology Research and Development effort with a combined cadre of over 150 scientist and engineering personnel
- Led the development and integration of the Joint Directed Energy Test Capability (J-DETC).
- Managed budgets effectively to ensure optimal use of resources while maintaining financial stability.
- Implemented innovative solutions to solve complex problems, resulting in increased productivity and streamlined operations.
Director, Directorate of Strategic Technical Initiatives
White Sands Missile Range (WSMR)
03.2020 - 01.2021
- ATEC Technical T&E authority for Directed Energy (DE), Hypersonics, Integrated Air and Missile Defense, Swarming Autonomous Unmanned Systems, Space (Offensive and Defensive), and Nuclear Weapon Effects.
- Aligned ATEC Technical and Strategic leadership with direct support to DCG-DT, WSMR SMC, and WSMR ED for development and execution of Strategic Plans, Technology Integration, Strategic Development, and Special Projects
- Created and executed outreach strategies for ATEC to promote adoption of commercial technology T&E solutions, USG RDT&E solutions, and relevant best practices.
- Identified and implemented key strategic initiatives to improve ATEC’s T&E modernization posture, while simultaneously creating a partnership with other government agencies to improve support to US T&E critical infrastructure.
- Developed comprehensive Army-wide T&E strategies, architectures and implementation plans for key enterprise T&E capabilities to support critical rapid acquisition of military systems supporting National Defense Strategies, Army Modernization Priorities, Army Future Command CFTs, and RCCTO priority missions.
- Developed new policy recommendations and acquired policy changes to support the ever-changing mission needs of the organization.
- Led Project Management Reviews, Technical Assessments, and project analysis activities to support complex technical capabilities.
- Developed and led design and construction of complex technically advanced facilities and equipment.
- Led/championed development of the $100M+ Joint Directed Energy Test Center, as well as innovative technologies supporting AFRL research.
- Developed high-performing teams by providing mentorship, guidance, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Enhanced stakeholder satisfaction with timely and transparent communication strategies.
- Transformed organizational culture to embrace continuous improvement, leading by example and mentoring teams.
WSMR Chief of Staff (Acting)
White Sands Missile Range (WSMR)
White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico
01.2020 - 03.2020
- Executive leadership as Chief of Staff to support ATEC WSMR mission
Strategic Plans and Investments Director
White Sands Missile Range (WSMR) G5/9
01.2018 - 01.2020
- Directed WSMR initiatives to effectively support a broad spectrum of existing clients while strategically aligning resources and investments to meet evolving warfighter needs.
- Drove innovative approaches to streamline and focus on Hypersonic Weapons, Directed Energy, Space, and the rapid transition of critical capabilities, with a continued commitment to maintaining Air and Missile Defense
- Prepared and presented project reports and briefings for US Army senior leadership and staff on the status of projects, problems, recommendations, and related matters.
- Led strategic planning, modernization, and investment activities to support the National Defense Strategy and Army Modernization Priorities, with a focus on rapid transitions of joint-integrated Air and Missile Defense.
- Provided executive level strategic communications and coordination among multiple Services, OSD organizations, and the Intelligence Community (IC) to develop a working prototype to support rapid transition of overmatching capabilities to the warfighter.
- Led development of future business models for transitioning WSMR to support future overmatching technologies, to include, but not limited to: Directed Energy (DE), Cyber, Electronic Weapons, Hypersonics/Long Range Precision Fires, Joint Integrated Air and Missile Defense, Space, and Swarming Autonomous Systems,
- Evaluated joint military threats and began alignment of WSMR personnel, resources, business models and infrastructure to ensure US military T&E capability supports maintaining US technological superiority.
- Led independent Project Management Reviews, Technical Assessments, and project analysis activities to support critical facility construction project decisions.
- Led the facility development of the $100M+ Joint Directed Energy Test Center integrating complex Integrated Space, Air, and Missile Defense capabilities.
- Directed and provided oversight of staff and large, multi-agency Integrated Project Teams. Managed project capital.
- Led comprehensive strategic planning initiatives that aligned resources with evolving military requirements.
- Directed the integration of advanced technologies into strategic investment decisions, enhancing operational capability.
- Managed multi-agency project teams to evaluate complex technical capabilities and ensure alignment with defense objectives.
- Analyzed and evaluated emerging military threats to inform strategic planning and investment decisions.
- Coordinated cross-functional teams to execute projects supporting the National Defense Strategy and Army Modernization Priorities.
- Led the creation of innovative business models to support future technological advancements and mission objectives.
AF Directed Energy Expert
IMA, AF DE Requirements
10.2017 - 01.2018
- Led AF Directed Energy requirements development as Directed Energy expert within Air Staff.
- Provided executive level technical oversight and expertise to lay out AF directed energy strategic direction from SECAF, CSAF, and VCSAF.
- Developed and provided AF DE position and requirements to AF, Services, US Agencies, and allied countries on AF position and direction for DE.
- Led development of requirements for infrastructure, T&E, experimentation, prototyping, and DE related activities within the AF and supporting organizations.
- Senior DE technical advisor for HAF A5/8 on DE requirements.
- Provided technical support to DE related FFRDC, OSD, and other Service studies.
- Led and completed DoD DE JTE proposals for Joint Base Andrews with DE and kinetic weapons.
- Conducted comprehensive analysis of Air Force Directed Energy requirements, aligning strategic goals with operational capabilities.
- Developed and presented technical briefings on Directed Energy initiatives to senior military leadership, ensuring alignment with national defense strategies.
- Led collaborative efforts with cross-functional teams to design and implement Directed Energy experimentation protocols.
- Managed the integration of advanced Directed Energy systems into existing military frameworks to enhance operational effectiveness.
- Executed rigorous performance testing and evaluation of Directed Energy technologies, providing actionable insights for program optimization.
- Facilitated training sessions and knowledge transfer workshops to enhance team understanding of Directed Energy systems and applications.
- Established metrics for assessing the readiness and effectiveness of Directed Energy programs, driving continuous improvement.
- Coordinated with interagency partners to develop comprehensive strategies for Directed Energy capabilities and infrastructure.
- Provided expert guidance on compliance with technical standards and regulatory requirements for Directed Energy systems.
- Identified opportunities for innovation in Directed Energy applications, leading initiatives that resulted in enhanced mission outcomes.
- Streamlined project management processes for Directed Energy initiatives, improving efficiency and reducing turnaround times.
- Conducted data analysis and reporting to inform decision-making on Directed Energy technology investments and deployments.
- Collaborated with allied nations to share best practices and lessons learned in Directed Energy capabilities development.
- Served as the primary technical advisor for Directed Energy initiatives, influencing policy and strategic direction across military branches.
- Led the development and integration of the Joint Directed Energy Test Capability (J-DETC).
- Provided senior level leadership, strategic vision, technology & project management, facility management, contract management, construction management, requirements development, mission with senior level executive details, safety, security, planning, programming, budget, and execution functions.
- Led multiple Integrated Project Teams to resolve complex issues of security, safety, and complex technical capabilities.
- Developed and led design and construction of complex technically advanced facilities and equipment.
AF Directed Energy Weapon (DEW) Flight Plan (FP) Development
IMA, DE Experimentation Lead/AF DEW Flight Plan Lead and appointed Military Deputy Director for AF DEW T&E Consortium
12.2015 - 10.2017
- Organized/acquired senior AF advocacy and led first ever AF Directed Energy Weapon (DEW) Flight Plan (FP) development.
- Acquired SECAF/CSAF approval and signatures for AF DEW FP.
- Advocated & defended DE and Counter Hypersonic weapons investments to AF, OSD & Congress.
- Supported SECAF/CSAF/Acquisition Executives on program & budget issues for DE Experimentation & Development activities. Oversaw development planning efforts supported by experimentation data to aid senior leader investment decisions.
- Led AF DEW Test and Evaluation strategic plans to support AF DEW FP.
- Represented AF in numerous OSD and national technical planning forums; regularly advised General Officer-level leaders from all Services as a DE Technical Authority.
- Integrated AF DE efforts within other Service and OSD programs to minimize taxpayer costs, improve mission effectiveness, and accelerate DE transition to the warfighter where it made sense.
- Demonstrated leadership and provided guidance in establishing the management framework for accomplishment of the AF Directed Energy weapon Flight Plan strategic roadmap within the Secretary of the Air Force’s in-house and contractual capability.
- Led the integration of hypersonic vehicles, autonomous vehicles, and small ISR UAVs into overall AF strategy to support transition of third offset technologies in a synergistic, cost-effective manner to maintain US warfighter technological superiority.
- Developed the AF Directed Energy Weapon Flight Plan, establishing a strategic roadmap to guide future DEW initiatives.
- Conducted comprehensive analyses of Directed Energy capabilities, aligning them with emerging military threats and operational needs.
- Facilitated interagency collaboration, enhancing the integration of Directed Energy systems across multiple military branches.
- Led the development and execution of testing and evaluation strategies for Directed Energy technologies, ensuring compliance with mission objectives.
- Managed resource allocation for DEW projects, optimizing budget utilization while maintaining program effectiveness.
- Designed and implemented performance metrics to assess the effectiveness of Directed Energy systems in operational environments.
- Advocated for Directed Energy investments, successfully securing funding from senior leadership and congressional stakeholders.
- Coordinated project management reviews, providing oversight for complex technical projects related to Directed Energy.
- Established strategic communications plans to promote the AF DEW Flight Plan and its objectives to diverse stakeholders.
- Integrated advanced technologies into the AF DEW Flight Plan, enhancing operational readiness and effectiveness against evolving threats.
- Led assessments of test capabilities, identifying gaps and proposing solutions to enhance DEW experimentation and readiness.
- Engaged with senior military leaders to provide insights and recommendations on Directed Energy strategy and implementation.
- Identified opportunities for innovation within DEW programs, leading initiatives that improved mission outcomes and resource efficiency.
- Supervised teams in the design and construction of advanced testing facilities for Directed Energy applications.
- Facilitated stakeholder engagement initiatives, fostering relationships with government and industry partners to support DEW objectives.
- Led independent Project Management Reviews, Technical Assessments, and project analysis activities to support critical facility construction project decisions.
- Led multiple Integrated Project Teams to resolve complex issues of security, safety, and complex technical capabilities.
- Developed and led design and construction of complex technically advanced facilities and equipment.
- Integrated AF DE efforts within other Service and OSD programs to minimize taxpayer costs, improve mission effectiveness, and accelerate DE transition to the warfighter where it made sense.
- Developed the AF DEW FP Strategic Communications Plan.
- Conducted thorough analyses of Directed Energy capabilities, ensuring alignment with emerging military threats and operational requirements.
- Developed and executed comprehensive testing and evaluation strategies for Directed Energy technologies, aligning with mission objectives.
- Facilitated collaboration among military branches to enhance the integration of Directed Energy systems across various platforms.
- Managed resource allocation for DEW projects, optimizing budget utilization while ensuring program effectiveness.
- Designed and implemented performance metrics to evaluate the effectiveness of Directed Energy systems in operational environments.
- Led assessments of test capabilities, identifying gaps and proposing solutions to improve DEW experimentation and readiness.
Technical Director
J-FLaME Technical Director & Low Power Module (LPM) Project Lead/Lead System Integrator
09.2014 - 12.2015
- Technical Director, under the authority of the OSD / DOT&E office, for Joint Fiber Laser Mission Engagement (J-FLaME) program. J-FLaME was a joint test program to develop joint High Energy Laser (HEL) tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTP) as well as new test and evaluation methodologies to support the joint transition of DE HEL weapons.
- Project Lead, Lead Systems Integrator and Senior IPT Chair for the Navy Directed Energy laser based LPM program.
- Established and led multi-work center integrated product teams for the design and development of a counter-ISR laser weapon system supporting a milestone B decision in FY18 for an operational Navy laser weapon system. Successful completion and use by Services.
- Led the design and development of advanced low power module systems for high-energy laser applications, ensuring alignment with operational requirements.
- Established and directed multi-disciplinary integrated product teams to drive the successful completion of the J-FLaME program.
- Facilitated technology transition efforts for directed energy systems, enhancing capabilities for naval operations.
- Implemented strategic project management practices to optimize performance and resource allocation across multiple technical initiatives.
- Conducted risk assessments and mitigation strategies for complex projects, ensuring compliance with safety and operational standards.
- Championed innovative testing methodologies for directed energy systems, resulting in improved evaluation processes.
- Mentored junior engineers and technical staff, fostering a culture of growth and continuous improvement within the team.
- Developed and executed project timelines and milestones, ensuring adherence to deadlines and budgetary constraints.
- Collaborated with military and civilian stakeholders to align project objectives with defense strategies and operational needs.
- Evaluated emerging technologies for potential integration into existing systems or future projects.
- Managed implementation of new technological improvements resulting in increased efficiency.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to efficiently complete large-scale projects on time and within budget constraints.
- Developed innovative solutions to complex technical problems, resulting in improved system performance.
- Developed suggestions for technical process improvements to optimize resources.
- Conducted technical reviews and assessments to ensure project deliverables met stringent quality standards.
- Collaborated with leadership staff to determine appropriate budgets.
- Directed resource allocation efforts, maximizing utilization while minimizing overhead costs.
- Increased customer satisfaction, addressing technical issues swiftly and effectively.
- Executed on senior leadership's long-term and mid-term [Type] technology development goals.
IMA to the Deputy Chief Engineer
Air Force Reservist
Los Angeles AFB, CA
08.2012 - 08.2015
- Led/coordinated/championed strategic evaluation and analysis of future environment for GPS in year 2035+
- Led the development of intelligence-based GPS SWOT analysis
- Led Market Research of >70 interviews with SMEs
- Held first ever stakeholder conferences with over 30 organizations and > 150 participants from DOD, US civil agencies, academia, US private sector, news media, and international partners.
- Prepared and delivered project presentations to senior leadership, effectively communicating status and recommendations.
- Fostered a collaborative environment that encouraged innovative problem-solving among technical teams.
- Improved project efficiency by streamlining engineering processes and implementing time-saving techniques.
- Collaborated with stakeholders to gather requirements, develop specifications, and deliver high-quality results that met or exceeded expectations.
- Investigated root causes of system failures or inefficiencies using advanced troubleshooting techniques.
- Implemented innovative engineering solutions to overcome challenging technical obstacles and achieve desired outcomes.
- Developed long-term strategic plans in alignment with organizational goals, ensuring continued growth and success of the engineering department.
Program Manager
AFRL BeamRYDR Program Manager
09.2013 - 08.2014
- Led AF portion of a joint AF/DARPA/NASA program to develop remotely powered launch of small satellites utilizing High Power Electromagnetic Directed Energy.
- Developed strategic vision and plans that were aligned with joint sponsor missions, acquired resources, and executed technology demonstrations of this unique use of directed energy.
- Acted as test director, technology lead, and system integrator for all AF activities and demonstrations.
- Led program initiatives to enhance directed energy capabilities, aligning with strategic military objectives.
- Implemented risk management strategies to mitigate potential project delays and ensure compliance with safety standards.
- Facilitated regular meetings with stakeholders to ensure alignment on project goals and expectations.
- Executed comprehensive project plans, detailing timelines, deliverables, and resource requirements for successful outcomes.
- Conducted thorough analysis of project performance, using data-driven insights to inform strategic decision-making.
- Evaluated emerging technologies for potential integration into ongoing projects, ensuring alignment with defense needs.
- Led cross-agency collaboration efforts to enhance program effectiveness and resource sharing.
- Utilized data-driven decision-making approaches to inform strategy development and optimize outcomes.
- Optimized resource allocation, effectively balancing priorities and managing competing demands.
Operations Director
MAX POWER Operations Director and In-Theater Team Lead
12.2012 - 08.2013
- Deployed Operations Director and Senior Government Leader for a joint Directed Energy Counter-Improvised Explosive Device (C-IED) weapon operational evaluation in-theater, Camp Leatherneck, Afghanistan.
- Embedded within US Marine, ARNG, and coalition forces “outside the wire” to support JIEDDO Operational Evaluation of this HPEM weapon.
- Successfully led and demonstrated operational capabilities in-theater.
- Led operational evaluations of Directed Energy systems in-theater, ensuring compliance with mission objectives and strategic goals.
- Managed stakeholder engagement initiatives, fostering collaboration among military and civilian partners.
- Developed and maintained comprehensive operational reports to inform senior leadership on project status and outcomes.
- Facilitated regular briefings for military leadership, providing insights on operational performance and strategic direction.
- Streamlined processes to improve efficiency and reduce turnaround times across operational functions.
- Identified key performance metrics to evaluate team effectiveness, driving continuous improvement initiatives.
- Led joint operational assessments, collaborating with multiple agencies to enhance mission capabilities.
- Fostered a culture of innovation within teams, encouraging creative problem-solving and strategic thinking.
- Defined, implemented, and revised operational policies and guidelines.
- Improved operational efficiency by streamlining processes and implementing innovative solutions.
Division Technology Integration Director
Air Force IMA Reservist
Kirtland AFB, New Mexico
07.2002 - 08.2013
- Division Technology Integration Director – Led/coordinated RDT&E high power microwave (HPM) lethal and non-lethal technology summit activities and technologies with high power laser applications.
- Incorporated systems engineering practices and approaches to field weapon systems.
- Successfully enabled laser power and thermal management technologies to be co-utilized with HPEM.
- Program lead, manager, and principal researcher for the development of high-power fiber lasers.
- Acquired joint service advocacy and integration of program, as well as financial support. Increased laser output capability by 10x with savings of over $10M through innovative approaches and elimination of duplication among Services.
- Area Defense Study Lead-Developed, championed, and provided senior level leadership for joint DOD-DOE laser-based RDT&E area defense program resulting in technology transition opportunity to defend airbases against missile/mortar attacks.
- Led strategic planning and integration of advanced technologies to enhance operational capabilities within the division.
- Facilitated cross-functional collaboration, ensuring alignment between technical teams and strategic objectives.
- Conducted thorough analyses of emerging technologies, informing strategic planning and investment decisions.
Program Manager
Program Manager - Electric Laser on a Large Aircraft (ELLA)
03.2009 - 11.2012
- Program Manager (PM) and senior joint AF/DARPA leader for the first-generation electric laser on a B-1 aircraft.
- Established ELLA program office and led/directed all aspects of the ELLA program and program office functions typical of a SPO.
- Led ELLA matrixed/multi-disciplined teams to develop “game-changing” directed energy technologies that provide ultra-precision, speed-of-light, deep magazine, low collateral, offensive and defensive capabilities to legacy and future A/C.
- Directed advanced technology RDT&E to deny, dissuade, and defeat terrorist activities while providing unique Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities to detect and identify terrorist actions and other military high value items.
- Directed and led all associated DE RDT&E activities (9 separate major technology developments to include beam control/tracking, thermal management, lasers, early warning sensors, aero-effects, and MS&A)
- Led all systems engineering, system of systems evaluations, subsystem and system level tests, and resource management
- Established a joint organizational structure, building joint AF/DARPA coalition with a common vision, acquiring political and resource support, creating unity among diverse stakeholders
- Championed and led the joint Integrated Product Team (IPT) including nine subgroups with an estimated membership of over 150
- Provided senior executive leadership to the Senior IPT consisting of leaders from across the AF, DARPA and private industry.
- Promoted ELLA and acquired endorsement from the SECAF, CSAF, AFMC, AFSPC/CC, AFRL/CC, and ACC/AB.
- Built strategic alliances among stakeholders and leveraged nearly $250M to enable RDT&E of first ever tactical high energy laser to support the warfighter.
- Successfully incorporated end user participation - bridged the technology “valley of death” while ensuring rapid technology transition to the warfighter.
- Developed inputs, supported, and provided reviews of PPBE process and oversight structure of projects/programs supporting ELLA from 9 divisions across 5 directorates.
- Evaluated and identified Force Structure to support future missions.
- Developed and implemented program execution plan, allocated resources for each subsystem IPT, assigned specific work to each IPT lead, defined overall milestones and program timeline with objective metrics, monitored technical and program progress towards meeting program goals, and adjusted execution of program as required to meet mission.
- Achieved savings of $50 million and avoided more than five years of possible transition delays.
- Led program initiatives to enhance directed energy capabilities, aligning with strategic military objectives.
- Established strong relationships with key stakeholders, ensuring support for program initiatives.
- Led change management efforts, supporting staff through transitions and promoting buy-in for new initiatives.
- Devised creative solutions to critical customer and user needs.
- Interacted with customers and clients to identify business needs and requirements.
Deputy Director
NNSA Institutional & Joint Programs, SSTM
Kirtland AFB, New Mexico
12.2007 - 03.2009
Senior Leader
AF Senior Leader & National Technical Authority for Nuclear Surety
12.2007 - 12.2007
Division Chief
Division Chief, Nuclear Cruise Missile Division & W80/W84 Senior Leader
07.2001 - 01.2007
Senior Strategic Planner
Senior Strategic AFRL/DE RDT&E Planner/International PM (AFRL)
11.1999 - 07.2001
Research Physicist
Research Physicist - High Energy Laser and Optics (AFRL)
11.1999 - 11.1999
System Integrator
DECADE System Integrator, Test Director, Agency Liaison (DSWA)
08.1997 - 01.1999
Champion
Sacramento Technology Coalition “Champion” using DE (SM-ALC)
02.1994 - 08.1995
Program Director
Program Director, EONS (DE included) (SM-ALC)
11.1989 - 11.1994
Education
Ph.D. - Optical Sciences & Optical Engineering (Joint - Physics and EE Ph.D.)
08.2009
Executive Leadership and MBA Coursework - undefined
11.2007
SECDEF Cert
M.A. - National Security and Strategic Studies
03.2006
Senior Development Education/Joint PME
B.S. - undefined
12.1987
Physics, EE, Math, Business
Skills
- Directed Energy Authority
- All Domain Operations Expertise
- Cross-Functional, Organizational, and Stakeholder Collaboration
- Superior Communication Skills
- Rapid Technology Integration and Integration
- Executive Leadership
Certification
- CFP Graduate Certificate in Financial Planning (In-Progress)
- SSTM 2008 NNSA Training and Certification Completed
- SPRD&E DAU Level 3 Certification
- PM DAU Level 2 Certification (Level 3 In-Progress)
- Test DAU Level 3 Certification
- 1987 Engineer-In-Training (EIT) Certification
Timeline
Senior Engineer - National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA), Sandia Field Office (SFO)
07.2023 - Current
Director, Complex Management Team and Program Manager (detail) - National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA), Sandia Field Office (SFO)
07.2022 - 07.2023
Director, Directorate of Research & Technology - US Army Space and Missile Defense Command Technical Center (SMDTC)
01.2021 - 07.2022
Director, Directorate of Strategic Technical Initiatives - White Sands Missile Range (WSMR)
03.2020 - 01.2021
WSMR Chief of Staff (Acting) - White Sands Missile Range (WSMR)
01.2020 - 03.2020
Strategic Plans and Investments Director - White Sands Missile Range (WSMR) G5/9
01.2018 - 01.2020
AF Directed Energy Expert - IMA, AF DE Requirements
10.2017 - 01.2018
AF Directed Energy Weapon (DEW) Flight Plan (FP) Development - IMA, DE Experimentation Lead/AF DEW Flight Plan Lead and appointed Military Deputy Director for AF DEW T&E Consortium
12.2015 - 10.2017
Technical Director - J-FLaME Technical Director & Low Power Module (LPM) Project Lead/Lead System Integrator
09.2014 - 12.2015
Program Manager - AFRL BeamRYDR Program Manager
09.2013 - 08.2014
Operations Director - MAX POWER Operations Director and In-Theater Team Lead
12.2012 - 08.2013
IMA to the Deputy Chief Engineer - Air Force Reservist
08.2012 - 08.2015
Program Manager - Program Manager - Electric Laser on a Large Aircraft (ELLA)
03.2009 - 11.2012
Deputy Director - NNSA Institutional & Joint Programs, SSTM
12.2007 - 03.2009
Senior Leader - AF Senior Leader & National Technical Authority for Nuclear Surety
12.2007 - 12.2007
Division Technology Integration Director - Air Force IMA Reservist
07.2002 - 08.2013
Division Chief - Division Chief, Nuclear Cruise Missile Division & W80/W84 Senior Leader
07.2001 - 01.2007
Senior Strategic Planner - Senior Strategic AFRL/DE RDT&E Planner/International PM (AFRL)
11.1999 - 07.2001
Research Physicist - Research Physicist - High Energy Laser and Optics (AFRL)
11.1999 - 11.1999
System Integrator - DECADE System Integrator, Test Director, Agency Liaison (DSWA)
08.1997 - 01.1999
Champion - Sacramento Technology Coalition “Champion” using DE (SM-ALC)
02.1994 - 08.1995
Program Director - Program Director, EONS (DE included) (SM-ALC)
11.1989 - 11.1994
Defense Leadership and Management Program (DLAMP) - Executive Leadership and MBA Coursework,
Naval War College - M.A., National Security and Strategic Studies
Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, CA - B.S.,
University of New Mexico - Ph.D., Optical Sciences & Optical Engineering (Joint - Physics and EE Ph.D.)
Panels
- 2018, Army Service Rep for MHEL OSD T&E Panel
- 2018, Army Appointed Service Rep for Directed Energy T&E Reliance Panel
- 2017, Air Force representative of OSD High Energy Laser Roadmap Study Team
- 2017, Military Deputy Director, Air Force Directed Energy Test and Evaluation Consortium
- 2016, Chair, Air Force Directed Energy Flight Plan IPT
- 2016, Chair, US GPS Strategic Development Consortium and Government IPT
- 2014, Chair, AF Nuclear Enterprise Roadmap Warhead Security & Surety IPTs
- 2007, Chair, Nuclear Reliability Replacement Warhead-2 Surety IPT
- 2005, Chair, Symposium Program, 3rd Annual Directed Energy Symposium
- 2005, Chair, Basic Research Session, 3rd Annual Directed Energy Symposium
- 2000, Chair, Joint Small Satellite Research and CONOPS, Naval War College
- 1994, Chair, Battlefield Laser Management Panel (Tri-Service)
Clearance Level
Q (Previous - Top Secret/SCI)
Awards
- SAF/AQR Quarterly Team Award, 2017, AQR Directed Energy and Hypersonics Team
- SAF/AQR IMA of the Year, 2016
- SAF/AQR Quarterly Team Award, 2016, AQR Directed Energy Team
- SAF/AQ IMA of the Quarter Award, 2016
- Defense Meritorious Service Medal, 2015
- AFRL Directed Energy Senior Leadership Award, 2013
- Meritorious Service Medals
- 2008
- 2012
- 2018
- Directed Energy Quarterly Program Management Award, 2009
- AFRL Directed Energy FGO IMA of the Year Award
- AFRL Directed Energy CGO IMA of the Year Award, 2005
- NNSA Distinguished Interagency Leadership-Beck Award, 2004
- AF/XO Vern Orr Unit Award Nomination, 2004
- High Energy Laser Joint Technology Office Research Award
- 2003
- 2004
- Directed Energy Quarterly Program Management Award, 2001
- Directed Energy Team & Team Leader Award
- 2000
- 2001
- Directed Energy Technical Team Award, 1999, Airborne Laser Demonstration
RELEVANT AWARDS
SAF/AQR Quarterly Team Award (AQR Directed Energy and Hypersonics Team), 2017, SAF/AQR IMA of the Year, 2016, SAF/AQR Quarterly Team Award (AQR Directed Energy Team), 2016, SAF/AQ IMA of the Quarter Award, 2016, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, 2015, AFRL Directed Energy Senior Leadership Award, 2013, Meritorious Service Medals, 2008, 2012, & 2018, Directed Energy Quarterly Program Management Award, 2009, AFRL Directed Energy FGO IMA of the Year Award, 2008 & 2012, AFRL Directed Energy CGO IMA of the Year Award, 2005, NNSA Distinguished Interagency Leadership-Beck Award, 2004, AF/XO Vern Orr Unit Award Nomination, 2004, High Energy Laser Joint Technology Office Research Award, 2003 & 2004, Directed Energy Quarterly Program Management Award, 2001, Directed Energy Team & Team Leader Award, 2000 & 2001 respectively, Directed Energy Technical Team Award - Airborne Laser Demonstration, 1999