How would you describe your role at RII?
I am currently the Information, Analytics, Command and Control (IAC2) Global Integration Lead, supporting and managing our geographically dispersed integration staff across multiple defense organizations to ensure they have the knowledge, tools, and processes in place to effectively execute their respective missions. Prior to this role, I was the U.S. Africa Command (USAFRICOM) integration lead, which entailed spearheading the integration of a command and control system into the command’s data management structure. This included identifying and building out pilot projects that use the system to inform command processes and associated battle rhythm events to enable increased data driven decision making and make progress towards the larger data modernization efforts across the DoD.
What did you do before joining RII?
I've worked in the national security sector for over 25 years, starting as a Signals Analyst with the U.S. Army Intelligence and Security Command (INSCOM) when I was 18. In 2001, I transitioned into DoD contracting, working for several companies supporting information technology, intelligence analysis, joint planning, exercises, training, key leader engagements, security cooperation, and multinational coordination across multiple geographic combatant commands, component commands, and the intelligence community. I've deployed multiple times as a contractor across the Middle East and Africa.
Who or what inspired you to pursue a career in national security?
Family history. Both of my grandmothers served during WWII; my maternal grandmother was a communications officer (LT) in the Women's Army Corps, and my paternal grandmother served as a DoD civilian supporting the War department’s intelligence directorate. Before I was born, my mother was in the US Army and stationed in Germany.
What is something you or your team accomplished that made you proud?
The AFRICOM System Integration Team came together over a year ago to implement a pilot project using an RII software platform to support the Component Commander's Conference. This semiannual event is attended by the commanders of all the AFRICOM Component Commands, several of which are four-star generals/admirals. Due to the incredible work by the team's component integration staff to include their hands-on approach and support to the action officers at their respective commands, this pilot was successful and the system has been used at every event since.
Can you tell us what you love most about working at RII?
The family feel of the company. I've worked for seven defense contracting companies over the past 20 years, and RII is far and above the best I've had the pleasure to work for. This company lives its core values, they aren't just words on a website and the employees aren't just numbers on a spreadsheet. I feel like I’m part of a close-knit community that has each other's backs, wants to see each other succeed, and offers opportunities for personal and professional growth. RII makes me feel valued as an employee and that my voice matters. I hope to be with RII for many, many years to come!
