Job Title
Chief for Missile Integration
Employer
U.S. Navy Civilian
Location
Dahlgren, Virginia
Why did you decide to pursue an aerospace engineering degree?
I grew up watching Gemini and Apollo.
Please include a brief paragraph describing your current position.
Oversee technical efforts to integrate missiles onto Navy platforms. Provide technical leadership in Modeling and Simulation, requirements development, and end to end weapon system engineering.
What do you like most about your job? What do you find most challenging?
In the DoD you get to do a wide range of topics. It's always changing. I've done missile GNC, projectile engineering, been to sea on flight tests, run large multi agency M&S technology programs, and run a national robotics technology program.
Which of the following student projects / organizations were you involved with in ASE/EM?
AIAA and SGT
Were you involved in any fellowships or internships? If so, please explain and discuss the benefits.
Cockrell Scholar
Do you recommend any particular focus for students other than academics to improve themselves as potential candidates for jobs?
I believe that the current emphasis on hands on projects is a great feature. Back in the 70s, we did endless problems. We didn't get to learn teamwork at college.
Why did you choose one track over the other (atmospheric/space)?
This was not a choice back in my day.
Who was your most influential ASE or EM professor and why?
Dr Hull. He gave me a love of flight mechanics and a strong basis I use almost every day.
What has been your most influential ASE or EM course and why?
Flight mechanics. I use it almost every day. UT gave me a strong theory background. This gives me a strong intuitive capability that most don't have. It made me a steely eyed missile man.
What is one piece of advice you have for current students?
Put in the effort to keep up with your college friends. When you all go your separate ways after graduation you will lose touch unless you put in the effort. As you go to work, get married, have kids, it's hard to make friends like you did in college. Cherish them.
Do you have a favorite memory as a UT aerospace student?
Hanging with everyone in the undergraduate lounge.
