WILLIAM POPE
Albuquerque,NM
Summary
Senior Program Manager | Acquisition & Test & Evaluation Expert | Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Cyber, Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance, and Targeting (C5ISRT) Subject Matter Expert Defense Sector Leader | Top Secret/ Special Compartmented Information Security Clearance with Experience in Special Access Programs Results-driven and highly skilled technical program and project management professional with extensive experience in leading cross-functional teams, managing complex programs, and delivering high-impact solutions in fast-paced and dynamic environments. Proven track record of success in overseeing large-scale technical projects from conception through execution, driving continuous improvements, and ensuring timely delivery of objectives. Expertise includes strategic planning, risk management, process optimization, and stakeholder communication within the defense, aerospace, and intelligence sectors. Strong leadership abilities in managing multidisciplinary teams, ensuring the seamless integration of technical solutions, and fostering collaboration between vendors, customers, and internal stakeholders. Adept at managing budgets, schedules, and resources while consistently delivering value and maintaining quality standards. Highly skilled in translating technical requirements into actionable plans, mitigating risks, and achieving program milestones to meet business goals. Seeking to leverage a combination of technical expertise and leadership experience in a Technical Program/Project Management role to drive organizational success and innovation.
Overview
35
35
years of professional experience
Work History
Senior Manager (NH4-Supervisory/Job Series 1101)
Rapid Resilient Command and Control Communications Integration Branch
11.2022 - Current
- Leads the Rapid Resilient Command and Control Communications Integration Branch; directs and supervises a multidisciplinary acquisition team of 10 personnel, ensuring effective execution of hundreds of million dollars in support of the Rapid Resilient Command and Control Program and other Space RCO, USSF, USAF, and Intelligence Community programs.
- Led cradle-to-grave management of multiple acquisition efforts in support of delivering customized interfaces to cloud hosted (commercial and private) satellite operations command and control systems, delivering all major milestones on time and under budget.
- Developed and executed acquisition strategies, source selection plans, and procurement packages in accordance with FAR/DFARS.
- Serves as the key liaison with contracting officers, legal counsel, and industry partners to streamline acquisition timelines and reduce procurement cycle times.
- Spearheads development of statements of work (SOW), independent government cost estimates (IGCEs), and acquisition plans for complex, high-visibility programs.
- Briefs senior leadership, including the USSF Vice Chief of Space Operations, the USSF Senior Procurement Executive, SES and other Flag Officers, on program status, risk posture, and acquisition milestones.
- Coordinates cross-functional collaboration among engineering, logistics, finance, and contracting divisions to align program objectives.
Mid-Level Manager (NH3-Non-Supervisory/Job Series 0340)
Open-Air Multi-Spectral Data Collection Program
09.2019 - 10.2022
- Directed innovative acquisition strategies to deliver advanced Test & Evaluation (T&E) solutions for the U.S. Army and Department of Defense (DoD), ensuring alignment with mission-critical requirements.
- Served as the Contracting Officer’s Representative for the Modernizing Instrumentation Solutions for Test and Evaluation (MISTE) contract vehicle, leading the successful award and execution of multiple delivery orders for complex T&E capabilities.
- Drove the development, integration, and implementation of multifaceted solutions to address diverse challenges across technical and operational disciplines.
- Provided strategic leadership to teams, fostering collaboration and resolving program issues to ensure timely delivery of high-quality outcomes.
- Assumed ownership of program processes and deliverables, ensuring operational continuity and alignment with organizational goals.
- Enabled seamless transitions of modular T&E solutions to maintain uninterrupted fielded system operations and product team functionality.
- Championed PEO STRI’s leadership in T&E initiatives, ensuring adherence to defense acquisition life-cycle management best practices while advancing organizational innovation and capability.
Operational Testing Subject Matter Expert
ECS-Federal SETA Contract
07.2016 - 08.2019
- Supported the Assistant Program Manager in all facets of the Modernizing Instrumentation Solutions for Test & Evaluation (MISTE) Program, providing expertise across scheduling, budgeting, and program structure development.
- Played a key role in the $896M MISTE contract vehicle, ensuring successful delivery through meticulous documentation, program planning, and acquisition life-cycle management.
- Facilitated the development of acquisition strategies, statements of work, and contract award documents, chairing meetings to drive collaboration and ensure milestone achievement.
- Conducted comprehensive market research and developed solicitation packages, including Requests for Information, Sources Sought Notices, and Requests for Proposals.
- Advised program leadership on establishing product project milestones, ensuring timely and efficient delivery of acquisition documentation.
- Authored and refined standard operating procedures (SOPs), enhancing organizational efficiency and consistency in acquisition processes.
Senior C5ISR-T Analyst-Engineer / Line Manager
American Systems Corporation JT&E Omnibus Contract
11.2013 - 06.2016
- Managed a 25-member operational testing project chartered by the Office of the Secretary of Defense, developing tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs) for Joint Interface Control Officers to optimize tactical data link architectures and enhance Integrated Air and Missile Defense operations.
- Designed and executed data management and analysis plans to securely collect, protect, and transport test data from complex test environments, including exercises such as Valiant Shield, Northern Edge, and the Nellis Test and Training Range.
- Contributed to the development and evaluation of advanced TTPs, enabling operators to leverage emerging technologies to prosecute air threats effectively within the Integrated Air and Missile Defense community.
- Utilized Microsoft Excel, Data-Watch Monarch, and Joint Range Extension Electronic Data Reduction Client to process, reduce, and analyze tactical data link message data for enhanced operational insights.
- Played a critical role in post-test data management activities, including trial reconstruction, data reduction, and comprehensive data analysis and evaluation.
- Authored key sections of the project management plan and test reports, ensuring clarity, precision, and actionable recommendations for stakeholders.
- Provided data management support for various test and risk-reduction events across real-world and networked emulated environments, ensuring the accuracy and reliability of outcomes.
Senior C5ISR-T Analyst-Engineer / Site Lead
Ariston Consulting, LLC / American Systems Corporation JT&E Omnibus Contract
11.2010 - 09.2013
- Led a 35-member operational testing project chartered by the Office of the Secretary of Defense, developing Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures (TTPs) to enhance cross-service information exchange and operational effectiveness for Army and USMC ground units.
- Designed and implemented comprehensive data management and analysis plans for test and risk reduction events across real-world and networked emulated environments, ensuring accurate and actionable insights.
- Successfully collected, secured, and transported test data from distributed environments, including high-profile exercises such as AGILE Fire IV, AGILE Fire V, and II Marine Expeditionary Force’s Virtual Battle Space.
- Played a pivotal role in post-test activities, including trial reconstruction, data reduction, and in-depth analysis, contributing to the development of TTPs that improved situational awareness and target prosecution across all operational echelons.
- Authored critical sections of project management plans, test reports, and technical documentation, ensuring precision and clarity in support of mission objectives.
- Recognized for technical excellence, earning a nomination for the 2012 International Test and Evaluation Association’s Technical Achievement Award.
C5ISR-T Consultant / Business Developer
ISC Consulting Group Incorporated
06.2010 - 11.2010
- Served as an Integrated Product Team (IPT) member and geospatial intelligence subject matter expert, contributing to the Army Geospatial Intelligence Training Study for the U.S. Army Intelligence Center of Excellence (USAICoE) and the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA).
- Conducted comprehensive assessments to identify training gaps and shortfalls for intelligence community Geospatial Intelligence analysts, recommending DOTMLPF-P changes to enhance operational capabilities.
- Provided actionable recommendations to USAICoE and NGA leadership to address identified deficiencies, driving improvements in geospatial intelligence training and effectiveness.
- Evaluated corporate business opportunities, both organic and non-organic, for alignment with organizational goals, advising senior management on strategic pursuits.
- Delivered strategic insights to support decision-making processes, enabling the company to optimize resource allocation and target high-value opportunities.
First Sergeant / Intelligence Senior Sergeant
United States Army
06.2008 - 05.2010
- Served as the senior enlisted advisor to the commander of a U.S. Army organization responsible for credentialing geospatial intelligence analysts, ensuring compliance with Army Command Policy and applicable regulations.
- Managed a diverse cadre of over 50 military, civilian, and contractor instructors, overseeing training for more than 750 trainees across two military intelligence specialties.
- Advised the commander on critical personnel security matters, including processing security clearance actions for periodic reinvestigations and addressing derogatory issues.
- Evaluated the effectiveness of computer-based Live, Virtual, and Constructive exercises, providing actionable recommendations to improve training programs and outcomes.
- Organized and executed large-scale training events, coordinating with external agencies to secure venues, equipment, and support, ensuring seamless operations.
- Successfully conducted high-risk training exercises without personnel injuries or equipment losses, demonstrating exceptional planning and risk management skills.
- Cultivated a positive command climate, fostering morale, teamwork, and professional development within the organization.
Chief Instructor, Military Intelligence Advanced Non-commissioned Officers Course
United States Army
06.2007 - 06.2008
- Managed and evaluated the performance of seven enlisted military instructors, ensuring the successful implementation of the Program of Instruction (POI) for the Military Intelligence Advanced Non-commissioned Officers Course.
- Served as the principal advisor to the Commandant of the U.S. Army Intelligence Center of Excellence Noncommissioned Officers Academy on all POI-related matters.
- Maintained accountability for $10M in vehicles, computers, and equipment, ensuring operational readiness and proper utilization.
- Mentored hundreds of students, guiding them to complete the course and excel in strategic, operational, and tactical intelligence assignments as Senior Intelligence NCOs.
- Organized and led diverse training events, including Field Training Exercises, Army Physical Fitness Tests, and First Responder Medical Training, enhancing student preparedness and capability.
- Conducted quality control reviews of over 200 academic performance evaluations, ensuring compliance with organizational guidelines and Army regulations.
- Coordinated with external organizations to program class schedules and align resources to meet Army requirements across two fiscal years, ensuring seamless course delivery and alignment with operational needs.
Geospatial Intelligence Section NCOIC / Platoon Sergeant (Deployed)
United States Army
09.2005 - 06.2007
- Senior enlisted geospatial intelligence NCO for Combined Joint Task Force-76 and 10th Mountain Division during Operation Enduring Freedom VII, overseeing a platoon of 35 intelligence analysts.
- Directed the collection, production, and dissemination of multi-discipline intelligence products, leveraging TENCAP, COTS, and advanced Intelligence Electronic Warfare systems.
- Scheduled and supervised mission-specific and specialized intelligence training for platoon members, ensuring operational readiness for a year-long deployment to Afghanistan.
- Produced and verified the accuracy of hundreds of intelligence products, including IMINT, SIGINT, and Full Motion Video analyses, supporting critical targeting and intelligence gathering across the Combined Joint Operational Area.
- Managed the storage, organization, and dissemination of intelligence data for the entire operational area using advanced tools such as the ISR Synchronization Tool, Requirements Management System, and theater database systems.
Aerial Intelligence Specialist and Imagery Ground Station Supervisor
United States Army
09.1990 - 08.2005
- Led all U.S. Army recruiting operations in Erie County, Ohio, training and mentoring two recruiters.
- Achieved multiple station and individual honors, establishing the station as a top performer in recruitment metrics.
- Primary Military Education Instructor / Writer (1997 – 2002)
- Certified over 500 intelligence analysts as an instructor/writer for the Imagery Ground Station Analyst Course at Fort Huachuca, AZ.
- Updated and maintained relevance of the course Program of Instruction, teaching subjects such as Intelligence Preparation of the Battlefield, RADAR fundamentals, Imagery Interpretation, Signals Intelligence, and Full Motion Video exploitation and correlation.
Recruiting Station Commander
United States Army
01.2002 - 01.2005
- Led all U.S. Army recruiting operations in Erie County, Ohio, training and mentoring two recruiters.
- Achieved multiple station and individual honors, establishing the station as a top performer in recruitment metrics.
Aerial Intelligence Specialist and Team Leader
United States Army
01.1995 - 01.1997
- Conducted ISR missions as an OV-1D Mohawk crewmember for the 3rd Military Intelligence Battalion and Combined All-Source Intelligence Cell at Camp Long, Korea.
- Led a team providing TENCAP and Intelligence Electronic Warfare support to 1st Republic of Korea Army HQs.
Imagery Ground Station Team Leader
United States Army
01.1993 - 01.1995
- Developed tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs) to process, exploit, and disseminate data from ISR platforms for 18th Airborne Corps.
- Provided actionable targeting information using the Army Field Artillery Tactical Data System (AFATDS) and contributed to the operational picture for 18th Airborne Corps and its subordinate units.
Member, Developmental Test and Training Detachment
Northrop Grumman Mission Systems
01.1991 - 01.1993
- Participated in multiple Multi-Service Operational Test and Evaluations of the USAF E-8 Joint STARS weapon system, contributing to the comprehensive assessment of system performance and operational readiness.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams from various military branches to evaluate system capabilities, ensuring the E-8 Joint STARS met mission requirements for surveillance, targeting, and command and control.
- Assisted in test planning, execution, and post-test analysis, providing critical insights into system performance and recommending improvements based on operational data.
- Played a key role in training personnel on operational procedures and system functionality, enhancing overall mission effectiveness for users of the E-8 Joint STARS system.
Education
BS - Business Management
The University of Phoenix
Certified Acquisition Professional - Program Management
Defense Acquisition Workforce
Skills
- Program & Project Management
- Strategic Planning & Execution
- Operations & Process Optimization
- Acquisition & Contract Management
- Risk & Compliance Management
- Defense Technology Integration
- Test & Evaluation Leadership
- Stakeholder Engagement & Communication
- Personnel Leadership & Development
- Cross-Functional Team Leadership
- Senior Leader Engagement
Affiliations
- International Test and Evaluation Association (ITEA)
- Armed Forces Communications and Electronics Association (AFCEA)
Timeline
Senior Manager (NH4-Supervisory/Job Series 1101)
Rapid Resilient Command and Control Communications Integration Branch
11.2022 - Current
Mid-Level Manager (NH3-Non-Supervisory/Job Series 0340)
Open-Air Multi-Spectral Data Collection Program
09.2019 - 10.2022
Operational Testing Subject Matter Expert
ECS-Federal SETA Contract
07.2016 - 08.2019
Senior C5ISR-T Analyst-Engineer / Line Manager
American Systems Corporation JT&E Omnibus Contract
11.2013 - 06.2016
Senior C5ISR-T Analyst-Engineer / Site Lead
Ariston Consulting, LLC / American Systems Corporation JT&E Omnibus Contract
11.2010 - 09.2013
C5ISR-T Consultant / Business Developer
ISC Consulting Group Incorporated
06.2010 - 11.2010
First Sergeant / Intelligence Senior Sergeant
United States Army
06.2008 - 05.2010
Chief Instructor, Military Intelligence Advanced Non-commissioned Officers Course
United States Army
06.2007 - 06.2008
Geospatial Intelligence Section NCOIC / Platoon Sergeant (Deployed)
United States Army
09.2005 - 06.2007
Recruiting Station Commander
United States Army
01.2002 - 01.2005
Aerial Intelligence Specialist and Team Leader
United States Army
01.1995 - 01.1997
Imagery Ground Station Team Leader
United States Army
01.1993 - 01.1995
Member, Developmental Test and Training Detachment
Northrop Grumman Mission Systems
01.1991 - 01.1993
Aerial Intelligence Specialist and Imagery Ground Station Supervisor
United States Army
09.1990 - 08.2005
Certified Acquisition Professional - Program Management
Defense Acquisition Workforce
BS - Business Management
The University of Phoenix
MILITARY EDUCATION
- US Air Force Leadership Development Course for Squadron Commanders, Senior Enlisted Leaders, and Civilian Directors
- Various US Army Intelligence Community Courses: Aerial Intelligence Specialist; Intelligence Analyst; Ground Station Analyst; Intelligence Ground Station Supervisor; Military Intelligence Advanced Noncommissioned Officers Course; Distributed Common Ground System-Intelligence Workstation Certification; US Army Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC) Instructor Certification.