1.What was your full rank and what part of armed services were you in?

I started my professional career in the U.S. Navy, where I served as a Surface Warfare Officer (SWO). My tours include Operations Officer aboard USS* OSPREY (MHC 51**) and Ordnance Officer aboard USS JOHN PAUL JONES (DDG 53***). As a midshipman, I also served in USS Honolulu (SSN 718****) and in the Spanish Navy aboard the Corvette La Vencedora and left active duty as a Lieutenant (O-3).

2. What was your role in that unit?

I served as Ordnance Officer onboard USS John Paul Jones (DDG-53). As the Ordnance Officer I was responsible for all gun/missiles systems and ammunition onboard the ship including the 5”/54 Light Weight Gun Mount, 20mm CIWS, 25mm cannon, Tomahawk missiles, Standard missiles, Harpoon missiles, torpedoes, sonobuoys, Night Vision Goggles and small arms. Additionally I was the ship’s boarding officer when we conducted Visit Board Search and Seizure operations in the Arabian Gulf. As Communications Officer onboard USS Osprey (MHC-51) I was responsible for the entire combat system, radar, sonar, communications equipment, mine disposal equipment and was one of two qualified Tactical Action Officers onboard the ship. Additional duties included being the Senior Watch Officer, Safety Officer, and CMS Custodian… 

3.Tell us more about your work experience at Safran Data Systems, Inc.?

I joined Safran Data Systems, Inc. in October 2021 as CEO and I am really enjoying learning about the company, our people, products and Customers and growing our team.

4. What skills developed in the military are you using as CEO?

Business leadership, communications and teamwork were all taught to me in the Military and are extremely useful in my role as CEO. Having served on active duty and worked alongside U.S. joint forces and coalition partners for over two decades, I’m able to bring an operational perspective to the technical expertise acquired through the delivery of critical defense technologies including Anti-Submarine Warfare, telemetry, RF, and communications equipment for land, air, and maritime platforms.

5. Why hire veterans at Safran Data Systems, Inc.?

Veterans bring an operational background to Safran Data Systems, Inc. which is invaluable because many have actually used our equipment in the field. They have a dedication to service and appreciation for how important and critical our products are to those still in the Military. Veterans understand that what we build and how we support our Customers matters greatly and in fact could save lives during combat operations.

* USS: United States Ship

** Osprey-class coastal mine hunters

*** Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer

**** Los Angeles-class submarine

Sources: Transition Assistance Program | U.S. Department of Labor (dol.gov)