spring 2017 the chronicle 1 - united states navy · 2 the chronicle spring 2017 visiting students...

The ChronicleSpring 2017 1

The Chronicle2 Spring 2017

Visiting students got a chilly reception at SSC Atlantic’s non-destructive testing lab, where they learned the importance of using various techniques -- such as extreme temperatures -- to evaluate systems without causing damage before releasing them to the fleet. The students were at SSC Atlantic for Groundhog Shadow Day Feb. 2. See more on page 29.


4 On the iceSSC Atlantic marks 20 years of support to the U.S. Antarctica Program and National Science Center research efforts.

12 Seed, Nurture, Harvest, ReseedSSC Atlantic’s New Professional and STEM outreach programs create a synergy to engage and attract future scientists.

18 CURI campus visitSSC Atlantic leadership visits the Clemson University Restoration Institute to explore opportunities for collaboration on cybersecurity and research projects.

Spring 2017 Vol. 24 No. 1

Leadership update ...........................2 PJSA IPT supports inauguration ...........9Automated Software Testing .............10STEM volunteers honored .................15’Hidden Figures’ ............................17CTO Corner ..................................20Scientists to Sea .........................24 Visitors .......................................33 The final word ..............................36

Commanding Officer ............Capt. Scott HellerExecutive Director .........................Chris Miller

SSC Atlantic Mission, Vision and Values

We rapidly deliver and support in-formation warfare capabilities to our Naval, Joint, National and Coalition Warfighters. We enable Warfighters to Secure America and promote global freedom.

The Chronicle is a quarterly publication designed for SSC Atlantic employees. Its purpose is to inform, educate, entertain and generate new ideas. Contents of The Chronicle are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense, the U.S. Navy or SSC Atlantic.

P.O. Box 190022North Charleston, SC 29419-9022

Editor ...........................................Susan PiedfortCommand Photographer ................Joe Bullinger

Chronicle

SSC Atlant ic senior leaders learn about the world’s most advanced wind-turbine drivetrain testing facility during a visit to the Clemson Uni-versity Restoration Insti-tute. See story on page 18. Photo by Joe Bullinger.

On the cover

InsideInside

The

The South Pole Station at the ceremonial South Pole is home away from home for SSC Atlantic employees sup-porting the U.S. Antarctic Program. See story on page 4.


Becker relieves Lewis

Then-SPAWARSYSCOM Commander Rear Adm. David Lewis paid a final visit to SSC Atlantic and spoke at an all hands gathering Feb. 28. Lewis praised the SSC Atlantic team for earning the highest grade possible on its recent Inspector General inspection. “You did really, really well. I expected it, and I’m proud of you,” the admiral told the assembled group in Charleston and at other sites via VTC. He also discussed how C4ISR and cybersecurity will continue to be important in the future, and that SSC Atlantic must be prepared to answer a more demanding Navy fleet. SPAWARSYSCOM commander since Aug. 7, 2014, Lewis was relieved by Rear. Adm. Christian Becker March 30 and appointed to the rank of vice ad-miral. Lewis’ next assignment is at Fort Lee, Virginia, as director of the Defense Contract Management Agency.

Rear Adm. Christian D. Becker be-came Commander, Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command during a March 30 ceremony in San Diego, California.

Becker has served as Program Ex-ecutive Officer, Command, Control, Communications, Computers and Intelligence (PEO C4I)/ Program Ex-ecutive Officer, Space Systems (PEO Space Systems) since July 2013. Previously, he led interagency and joint forces as the program manager for a national security space program providing national, joint and naval forces operational and intelligence information. He also served as com-mander, SPAWAR Space Field Activ-ity leading Navy civilians and Sailors assigned to the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO). Becker served as the principal deputy to the PEO for En-terprise Information Systems.

The New York City native earned a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from Boston University and a Master of Science in Project Management from The George Washington University. He also completed the executive fellows program at Harvard University’s Kennedy School of Government.

Becker’s operational assignments include electronic warfare deploy-ments as an EA-6B Prowler electronic counter measures officer and weapons school instructor and on staffs afloat and ashore. He is a plankowner of Joint Crew Composite Squadron (JCCS) 1, a special mission unit created to use electronic warfare to counter improvised explosive devices.

A member of the Aerospace En-gineering Duty Officer Community and Space Cadre, he held positions supporting both Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) and SPAWAR. Assignments were as chief engineer for the Integrated Strike Planning and Execution Systems Program Office

(PMA-281) at Naval Air Station Patux-ent River, and at the NR) as a systems engineer and deputy division chief supporting a global communications network.

He has been recognized as the Department of the Navy’s Acquisition Professional of the Year and the Intelligence Community Major Program Manager of the Year.

Personal awards include the Defense Superior Service Medal, the Legion of Merit, the Bronze Star and the NRO Gold Medal for Distinguished Service.

Commander of SPAWARSYSCOM

Lewis lauds SSC Atlanticduring final center visit

Rear Adm. Christian Becker


Deligne comes aboard asDeputy Executive Director

William “Bill” Deligne reported on board SSC Atlantic as Deputy Executive Director Jan. 8. In this Senior Science and Technology Manager (SSTM) position, Deligne is re-sponsible for the execution of the technical work performed by SSC Atlantic IPTs and projects. His leadership ensures the SSC Atlantic team meets its customer requirements, provides effective and affordable solutions, and applies systems engineering and programmatic discipline in the delivery of Information Warfare solutions to warfighters. Deligne also provides technical stewardship and expert advice to the fleet, resource sponsors and other stakehold-ers in the cyber warfare and business IT domains. He also works closely with SPAWARSYSCOM headquarters and DASN RDT&E to further strengthen the Navy’s organic engineering capabilities.

In this key leadership role, Deligne leverages his exten-sive experience in systems development, integration and delivery. His in-depth knowledge of the various technical competencies required to manage complex warfare systems enables the SSC Atlantic team to further accelerate and streamline capability deliveries.

Deligne has 30 years of federal service and has been a member of the Senior Executive Service (SES) since 2007. In his most recent role as Executive Director of Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA), he was the senior civilian

official responsible for leading and directing daily business opera-tions for the command. He also developed and executed long-term strategies to effective-ly execute NAVSEA’s mission while adapting to changing landscapes. From 2007 to 2012, Deligne served as Executive Director for the Program Executive Officer for Aircraft Carriers (PEO Carriers). In this position he was the senior civilian official in charge of the daily operations of PEO Carriers, including military and civilian manpower management, technology development, design, acquisition, construction and life cycle support for all aircraft carrier programs.

Deligne began his career in 1987 at NAVSEA in various engineering and technical management positions before entering the program management career field in 1993. He served in the program offices responsible for constructing, delivering and maintaining Navy ships, and in 1999 began work on the new Future Carrier Program. From 2002 to 2007 he served as deputy program manager for the Ford Class Future Carrier Program.

Deligne

Deligne speaks at a Charleston Defense Contractors Association (CDCA) meeting in January. Photo by Joe Bullinger


SSC Atlantic marks 20 years of support to NSF Antarctica opsBy Diane Owens

SSC Atlantic Public AffairsFor the past 20 years, SSC Atlantic employees have

provided meteorology services, air traffic control, systems engineering and maintenance, ground electronics main-tenance, information technology/security and operational logistics support in Antarctica. Their work enables scientists funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF) to conduct ground-breaking research.

“We are very proud to be teammates in the critical science mission at the boundary of human existence on the planet,” said SSC Atlantic Commanding Officer Capt. Scott Heller. “In a world challenged by global warming, understanding what is happening at our world’s poles is more important than ever. The science in Antarctica has always been essential... today it is even more urgent. Our employees contribute to the safety of members of the scientific community and keep them productive,” he added.

Many high-profile visitors, including flag officers, SES-level government employees, congressional members and staff, and senior government officials visit each year. Sec-retary of State John Kerry toured McMurdo in November. These visits focus national and worldwide attention to the

program and significantly increase press coverage, accen-tuating the need for accurate weather forecasting, reliable systems and safe air traffic control services.

SSC Atlantic Executive Director Chris Miller flew to Antarctica in 2012 to see first-hand the work done there and to meet the staff. “Antarctica is extremely hard to describe in words and must be seen to be appreciated,” he said. “It’s an incredibly remote, stark and desolate continent where you can see and experience nature at its most dramatic. It also remains almost exactly as it was long, long before human beings ever arrived. The environment enables unique and critical scientific research.”SSC Atlantic Polar Programs

NSF funds and manages the United States Antarctic Pro-gram (USAP). Scientific disciplines in Antarctica include astronomy, atmospheric sciences, biology, earth science, environmental science, geology, glaciology, marine biology, oceanography and geophysics.

NSF has a dedicated group of employees who plan and direct USAP operations while drawing resources and logisti-cal support from many federal civilian and DoD agencies, as directed under Presidential Memorandum 6646 signed

‘On the ice’


by President Ronald Reagan Feb. 5, 1982.Currently, the Secretary of the Air Force is the executive

agent for DoD efforts supporting NSF in the polar regions. SSC Atlantic’s focus support is on aviation command and control systems and services, along with core engineering and technical services in areas such as communications and information security. NSF levies other agencies’ capabilities under reimbursable agreements which, when combined, enable the world-class science that continuously originates from the continent.

In 1985, SSC Atlantic (then-NAVELEX) employees and contractors began supporting USAP when called upon by Naval Support Forces Antarctica (NSFA), now decommis-sioned, to engineer and install an air traffic control radar at McMurdo Station. Immediately after, additional engineer-ing support for various communications systems upgrades, meteorology systems updates and installations occurred.

In October 1997, SSC Atlantic assumed all air traffic con-trol and operational meteorology responsibilities from the decommissioning NSFA and continued to be the engineering services provider for aviation, meteorology and communica-tions systems. SSC Atlantic employees and contractors have provided these services for 20 consecutive years.McMurdo Station

McMurdo, the primary USAP logistics center, is located on the southern tip of Ross Island, Antarctica, approximately 850 miles north of the South Pole. While SSC Atlantic employees provide some technical and operational support for South Pole Station on the interior of the continent and Palmer Station on the Antarctic Peninsula, deployed person-nel primarily reside at McMurdo Station.

Approximately 45 SSC Atlantic government personnel and contract employees spend the austral summer season “on the ice” at McMurdo Station, with a minimum staff of four or five contractors remaining on-site during the austral winter. These numbers include engineering project personnel

The Microwave Landing System at the newly commissioned Phoenix Airfield (NZFX) is one of many systems currently supported by the SSC Atlantic Polar Programs Integrated Products Team; a U.S. Air Force C-17 is parked behind it.

SSC Atlantic Executive Director Chris Miller appreciated the opportunity to visit Antarctica project sites and observe deployed employees in action in the challenging polar environment.

SSC Atlantic photos

Continued on next page

who may not spend extended time there but deploy based on individual project requirements. SSC Atlantic has led the way in minimizing the number of personnel who deploy to the continent each season, accomplishing this through appli-cation of technology and use of carefully crafted operational processes and procedures.

In addition, the SSC Atlantic Remote Operations Facility (ROF) in Charleston, South Carolina, provides operational forecast services to support all U.S. assets on the continent of Antarctica. In addition, the ROF provides air traffic control services and general support for Antarctic flights. Individual pilot briefings are provided using video conferencing tools from Charleston to Christchurch, New Zealand, before any


Antarcticasouthbound mission. ROF capabilities enable the SSC Atlan-tic team to augment deployed personnel, increase capability and improve work-life balance for program participants who would normally deploy each season.

SSC Atlantic will continue to explore new ways to use technology and seek operational solutions to further reduce deployed personnel. This aligns with NSF strategic planning to conduct a major modernization of McMurdo Station in the near future with a goal of greater efficiencies, capabilities and support to research scientists.Meteorology

Antarctica, which wasn’t discovered until the nineteenth century, contains vast mountains layered in a mile or more of ice and an active volcano, and has an ever-changing land mass as ice melts and reforms. The terrain and rapidly changing extreme weather presents unique challenges to researchers and support personnel alike.

SSC Atlantic meteorologists must consider a myriad of factors when predicting weather for pilots, ship captains and station or camp support personnel on the continent of Antarctica. Frigid temperatures, strong winds, crystalline snow (smaller than a grain of sand), glaciers, mountainous terrain, snow storms, white-outs, icebergs, fog and blizzards all present unique challenges and hazards. They must also factor in extreme elevation changes; flights departing from McMurdo Station’s sea-level air fields may land at stations or camps at altitudes of 10,000 feet or more.

Intercontinental flights generally originate in Christ-church, New Zealand, which is 2,415 miles north across the Southern Ocean. Adding to the complications of normal forecasting is the length of time it takes to complete a flight from New Zealand and the ever-increasing chance that un-predictable weather can impact aircraft. Forecasters calculate the point of safe return for each flight as the last location that a pilot can return to the point of origin with sufficient fuel, in the event of sudden weather changes. Pilots occasionally do turn around and return to the departure site, but these “boomerangs” cost the taxpayer for used fuel, wear and tear on the aircraft, and labor for everyone from aircrews and passengers to logistics ground personnel on each end.

Accurate weather predictions by SSC Atlantic forecasters are essential to avoid

the high cost of aborted missions, delayed flights and per-sonnel safety – and to enable cargo and supplies delivery, as well as routine operations. Meteorologists study near real-time satellite images, numerical models, time-lapsed weather information and input from human observers to generate forecasts.

SSC Atlantic engineers have designed or modified sys-tems to provide critical information to weather personnel including commercial off-the-shelf portable weather stations mounted on skis, remotely controllable with fixed camera, and kits for deep field usage. They leveraged Iridium satel-lite communications to transport sensor output for real-time forecaster analysis.

NSF offers limited webcam views to the public from McMurdo that update every 30 seconds at https://www.usap.gov/videoclipsandmaps/mcmwebcam.cfm.Air traffic control

Three airfields near McMurdo Station are built on snow and ice to support heavy-lift wheeled aircraft (e.g., C-17 Globemasters) and skied aircraft (e.g., LC-139 Hercules). Williams Field (NZWD) is a snow airfield specifically for skied aircraft. Pegagus Field (NZPG) and the new Phoe-nix Field (NZFX) have hard ice surfaces and can support wheeled operations. Each location has unique operational requirements and challenges and serves a specific purpose for the USAP.

SSC Atlantic air traffic controllers are responsible for the safe flow of air traffic in and out of these airfields. NZWD has a small air traffic control tower built atop skis and equipped with all necessary communications and meteorol-ogy systems for controlling aircraft approaching or departing the airfield. In addition, air traffic controllers also manage the McMurdo Sector of the Auckland Flight Information Region from McMurdo Air Traffic Control Center -- aug-mented by Charleston ROF personnel.

Employees work around the clock and track thousands of

Meteorology Administrator Art Cayette monitors the performance of SSC Atlantic forecasting and observation services for the U.S. Antarctic Program at the Remote Operations Facility in Charleston.

Continued from previous page


aviation operations in Antarctica each year including inter- and intracontinental fixed wing flights and all McMurdo-area helicopter operations. There is no longer an air traffic control radar at McMurdo and all control is provided under non-radar control rules. However, by using technology and leveraging products across other government agen-cies, such as Automated Flight Following from National Forest Service, controllers’ situational awareness is greatly improved. Further enhancements will continue as aircraft and infrastructure continue to reach the 2020 compliance requirements for operating in national airspace.Cybersecurity

In recent years, SSC Atlantic expertise has been tapped to assist with NSF cybersecurity efforts. Government and contractor personnel help NSF to develop security policy and monitor compliance. As part of this effort, aviation and meteorology teams rely on proper cybersecurity planning to ensure robust and well-planned contingencies are in place.

During the coastal evacuation for Hurricane Matthew in October, the ROF in Charleston was temporarily closed, but thanks to the close partnership with NSF and joint efforts to plan for and provide contingency capabilities, no services were sacrificed. Routine cyber operations were performed by NSF’s contractor in Denver, Colorado. Emergency evacuations

Over the years, SSC Atlantic employees from Charleston ROF provided meteorological and air traffic control services for several successful evacuation flights off the continent during austral winter, when air travel is generally suspended. Due to the maturity of the ROF, these operations have been more like routine support than emergency actions. Require-ments and planning are different for these missions, but once the evacuation is approved and begins, SSC Atlantic provides the same level of quality the special mission pilots and crew receive at any other time of the year.Program personnel

Matt Rushing, Polar Program Integrated Product Team lead, is responsible for all SSC Atlantic polar programs systems engineering and operational support provided to NSF, including necessary systems and services for aviation, meteorology, communications and numerous supporting functions. He attributes much of the program’s success to employees’ dedication, experience and collective length of time on the job.

He noted that the team is planning for the future and try-ing to bring in new professionals to learn from experienced colleagues so they can take the reins someday.

“A lot of work is done with very few people “on the ice” since many tasks are done remotely,” and this encourages innovation by SSC Atlantic personnel in technology, the use and application of technology, and in providing routine support. He noted that polar program participants are some of the most well rounded at the center because they gain so many dif-ferent skill sets. Many people continue

SSC Atlantic Polar Programs technicians complete service on the South Pole Station Aviation Weather System that is installed atop raised platforms to prevent drifting snow from impacting the sensor suite. Systems can be buried quickly at the surface level if not properly planned and designed.

SSC Atlantic employee Greg Thomas overlooks the Adele Penguin rookery at Cape Royds after completing service on one of the Automated Weather Stations installed and maintained by center employees.



AntarcticaContinued from previous page

their careers supporting the warfighter in center leadership roles.

Extreme cold weather engineering expertise and other knowledge gained in the program benefits the Navy as a whole. “It’s a dangerous and unique environment to work in, and it’s not for everyone,” Rushing added. At times polar support can be highly stressful but through it all, SSC Atlantic’s safety record is excellent.

Rushing also noted that personnel deployed to Antarctica develop symbiotic relationships with polar scientists, and are able to apply current scientific findings to their work, while scientists benefit from employees’ technical expertise and experience.

Meteorology administrator Art Cayette, who provides government oversight to polar contractors, was stationed in Antarctica during his active duty Navy days, and 30 years later he continues to be passionate about his work keeping personnel safe. “It’s the most humbling occupation ever,” he said.

Coy Johnson, who managed the first Antarctic radar in-stallation in the 80s, retired from SSC Atlantic and continues to work in the Air Traffic Control Sub-Portfolio as a contrac-tor. He recalls that McMurdo Station was quite “rustic” in the early days, and that it took eight hours to travel by U.S. Navy Hercules LC130 ski-plane from Christchurch, New Zealand, to McMurdo.

Retired Navy commander Dave Kelch, senior operations advisor to the Polar Programs IPT lead and the competency lead for Aviation Command and Control Operations, said, “People in the polar programs are dedicated, and they’re very good at what they do. They love what they do and they’re pros.” Before joining the SSC Atlantic team as a Navy civilian, Kelch was the Navy’s Head of Airspace and Air Traffic Control in Washington, D.C.

Rhona North, SSC Polar Programs information system security manager, has spent time in Antarctica, and recalls that, after donning cumbersome outdoor gear and goggles to protect her eyes, she once transported updated IT equipment from one building to another on a sled. That’s an experience few IT professionals encounter.

SSC Atlantic’s first 20 years partnering with NSF in Antarctica have been an unqualified success; its employees look forward to continuing their support enabling scientific research and keeping operational systems up and running during the next 20 years “on the ice.”

As commanding officer Heller said, “At one level, polar support is one effort among 850 other concurrent efforts at SSC Atlantic that make our world safer, but on another level, the science at the poles has the potential to address the most important questions of our time.”

SSC Atlantic technician Mike Rugg releases a weather balloon at McMurdo Station. Weather balloons carry a small radiosonde that transmits data to the weather of-fice for collection, analysis and further distribution, and measures winds, temperatures and pressures as it ascends through the atmosphere.

Rhona North, SSC Atlantic Polar Programs Information System Security Manager, poses at the ceremonial South Pole located about 180 meters from the geographic South Pole; the South Pole Station appears in the background.


Deborah Gonzales Navy and Federal Support Portfolio

The Presidential/Joint Systems and Applications (PJSA) IPT, part of the Force Protection Solutions Sub-Portfolio, had an important role during the transition of power and inauguration of Donald Trump, 45th President of the United States. Beginning in summer 2016, the PJSA team provided mission-critical support to the United States Secret Service (USSS) for various elements of the presidential transition and inauguration, said Jason Aycock, PJSA IPT lead.

The team began by providing electronic security system design and installation support for the Presidential Transition Office (PTO). Located in downtown Washington, D.C., the PTO was a temporary facility established after the election to allow the incoming Presidential leadership team a loca-tion to facilitate transition with the outgoing administration.

During the time this location was active, the PJSA team provided logistic and maintenance support for all electronic security systems. Immediately following the inauguration, the team assisted with the teardown of the site and transition of the facility back to the General Services Administration (GSA).

U.S. Service members, civilian supporters, members of the U.S. government, and special guests attend the Presidential inauguration at the U.S. Capitol Building Jan. 20.

As part of the ongoing Executive Facility Access Control System (EFACS) project, the PJSA IPT executed a replace-ment and upgrade of all Secret Service and Visitor passes for two key locations. This effort was designed to upgrade access card technology and to allow for a clear visual indication of which administration the pass was issued under. The process entailed modifying the hardware and firmware at all card reader locations and printing nearly 10,000 visitor passes and over 4,000 USSS personnel passes, said Sky Gerrond, the PJSA IPT’s USSS Program Manager.

In support of the 2017 Presidential inauguration, the PJSA team assisted with the temporary expansion of the Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) system to provide additional coverage of critical locations.

On inauguration day Jan. 20, seven members of the PJSA team stood ready to provide emergency maintenance support to USSS for the various electronic security systems located throughout the inauguration zone.

In addition, the PJSA team’s Curtis White provided tech-nical support for a unique surveillance system that allows the Secret Service the ability to detect and respond to non-traditional threats in and around the National Capitol Region.

Photo by Lance Cpl. Cristian L. Ricardo, USMC

Presidential/Joint Systems and Applications Teamsupports Presidential transition and inauguration


Automated Software TestingSuccessful pilot at SSC Atlantic has applications across DoD

An SSC Atlantic team led by computer scientist Larry Yang has created an automated testing solution for software-intensive systems that will benefit not only SSC Atlantic but other programs throughout the Department of Defense.

Yang’s pilot project received funding from the CNO’s Innovation, Technology Requirements and Test & Evalu-ation (N94) for FY16 to expand the understanding of how automated software testing tools can better support software development efforts.

With support from USMC/SOCOM Portfolio, Expedition-ary Enterprise Systems and Services (E2S2) Sub-Portfolio, and 5.9 (Mission Assurance) Competency, the test automation project was formally chartered and executed via SSC Atlan-tic’s Standard Business and Tailored Systems Engineering Technical Review (SETR) Processes.

Yang served as the project and technical lead of the pilot, which was completed in October 2016. His team members were Phuong Luu, Guillermo Mujica, Nicolas Naugle and John Garrett. Due to their success, the pilot was reported to Congress by Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Navy – Research, Development, Test & Evaluation via the House Armed Services Committee as an example of cost effective efforts in automation.

While serving as the test lead for a Major Automated In-formation System (MAIS) Acquisition Category I (ACAT-I) program at SSC Atlantic, Yang observed first-hand the inef-ficiencies of manual testing. He drafted a proposal to fund

test script automation, and eventually obtained funding from OPNAV N84 ATA to focus on not only automating testing but also on how to establish a business case for automation and collect the data needed to prove the cost and efficiencies of automation. Due to its complexity, requirements, techni-cal maturity and interface count, Yang used the same MAIS ACAT-I program for his pilot. Yang and his team successfully followed the Naval Systems Engineering Framework and best practices for the project, performed a formal test event and collected metrics to measure overall efficiency, all of which proved that testing automation saves time and money while improving software quality.

The team also generated technical documents, engineering processes and a framework for automated software testing that will serve as a guide for others seeking to implement an automated testing solution. The team provided all frame-work and OPNAV deliverables ahead of schedule and was recognized by OPNAV as one of the best projects receiving special funding.

Testing is a major component -- and significant cost -- of the software development lifecycle (SDLC) cost driver for both government and industry. Traditionally, mission-critical U.S. Navy software is tested and retested manually, multiple times. Manual testing is costly, and it is difficult to schedule and obtain resources, such as trained personnel, facilities, and equipment. Multiple deliveries of software and soft-ware systems require retesting, and technology insertions

Larry Yang, standing at left, works with members of his Automated Software Testing team, seated from left, Guillermo Mujica, Phuong Luu and John Garrett. Not pictured is team member Nicolas Naugle.

Photo by Joe Bullinger


and software reuse also require additional time-intensive and costly regression testing. Automating software testing can save money, improve quality and make delivery to the fleet faster.

Since software development and integration are processes that are continuous throughout the acquisition lifecycle, auto-mated software testing can greatly improve testing capabilities. It can be executed alone or in conjunction with manual testing. Regardless of the complexity, technical maturity or require-ments of the software program, automated software testing may be a viable option.

Yang, who has more than 12 years of information technol-ogy expertise including automated software testing previously with the U.S. Air Force, said lessons were learned during the pilot program that will help others determine if automated software testing can be applied to their projects.

“Automation is not the ‘one for all’ solution for all software-intensive systems. It may depend on several factors including a business case analysis, a risk analysis, a comparison of al-ternatives, and in some cases, where in the SDLC the program resides. The software application(s) should be analyzed to determine if the cost benefit and ROI analysis is large enough to justify automated testing, and which portions can be auto-mated,” Yang said. Good candidates are test cases that process a large amount of data, are time-consuming or repetitious or are complex or difficult to execute, he added. Other good candidates are test cases prone to human error during manual testing, and those that assess functionality of core and critical business functions and ensure continued software functionality through regression testing.

“Larry’s results showed that advanced planning and de-tailed execution of an automation effort can clearly show the efficiencies gain or lost through automation,” said Yang’s supervisor Terry Gantenbein in a recent award nomination. “He provided comprehensive documentation that has already been consulted by other projects to guide investigation into automation,” Gantenbein added.

Since testing can be one of the most time-consuming and costly phases of delivering capability to the fleet, the team’s work to leverage commercial automated testing “best prac-tices” to maintain or improve software product quality while shortening the software certification timeline has great potential for applications across DoD.

As a member of the Naval Software Community of Practice (SW COP), Yang reports there are already government-wide interests in Automated Software Testing, and NAVSEA has requested a copy of SPAWAR Test Automation Policy for its adoption once finalized. Recently, he was selected to become 5.9 Competency Supervisor for IA and by headquarters to develop the Test Automation Policy for all of SPAWARSYS-COM, and is already working with a few IPTs in support of their automation efforts.

Yang has briefed the SSC Atlantic ED and SSTMs, Marine Corps and NAVSEA SESs, the OPNAV N94 SES Panel, and OSD via STAT, and at command-wide knowledge events.

- Susan Piedfort, Chronicle Editor

Automated software testingAdvantages

Automated software testing saves time and money, reducing setup time by automating data staging and streamlining regression testing after every software modification, patch or release, ultimately reducing manual labor. Automated software testing reduces overall test execution times at minimal cost.

It improves software quality by minimizing human errors, enhancing repeatability and consistency of test results, and reducing the risk of errors. Automated software testing can execute thousands of complex test cases throughout each test run. Lengthy tests can be run unattended overnight or as needed.

Automated software testing allows for additional testing not suitable to manual testing, such as load and performance testing simulating thousands of us-ers, complex scenarios and concurrent processes, and endurance testing with large and greatly varied datas-ets. Testers can examine a software system as it runs for a long duration and measure the system’s reaction parameters. Longevity testing evaluates a system’s abil-ity to handle a constant, moderate workload for a long period. It also allows for race-condition testing — the behavior of electronics, software or other system where the output is dependent on the sequence or timing of other uncontrollable events.

Automated software testing can also identify po-tentially catastrophic issues early, before they cause system outages.Disadvantages

Automated software testing can be a challenging process, requiring resources such as automation archi-tect and automation engineers (often costly and difficult to find); developers with knowledge of scripting and programming, e.g., Java or Visual Basic; and subject matter experts (SME) with a firm grasp of the applica-tion being automated.

There are additional costs for setup, such as purchas-ing the automation tool, training staff, and maintaining test scripts, equipment, lab and annual software main-tenance fees.

Errors in automated scripts, though rare, can negate data collected and force retesting.


Like the rest of the federal government, SSC Atlantic faces the challenge of replacing a highly technical – but aging – professional workforce whose expertise must be passed down through the organization to ensure success. At the same time, an increasingly complex information technology environment requires even greater technical ability, flexibility and response times.

Two SSC Atlantic initiatives – the New Professional pro-gram and STEM Outreach – are highly successful on their own merits. But together, they are creating a synergy that is helping to ensure SSC Atlantic is attracting and retaining employees with the scientific expertise needed to meet the demands of complex engineering and technical requirements and rapidly changing technologies.New Professionals

The New Professionals (NP) program was established in 2003 at then-SSC Charleston to focus on hiring the best and brightest new graduates who would eventually be prepared to take the place of seasoned professionals who retire. Since 2003, SSC Atlantic has hired more than 1,227 New Profes-sionals in program management and in the technical realm.

The two tracks are not mutually exclusive. Many of the skills, training and experiences required in one track are also necessary for success in the other career path. Capability Maturity Model Integration (CMMI) and Defense Acquisi-tion Workforce Improvement Act (DAWIA) training are two good examples; NPs in either track need to possess skills in multiple areas such as systems engineering processes and acquisition. NP technical specialties include computer engineering, software engineering, electrical engineering and computer science.

“These are truly some of the most talented graduates out there,” said Capt. Scott Heller, commanding officer, of

the NPs. “Each of them brings outstanding technical skills, flexibility in working with new processes, and solid back-grounds in working in collaborative team environments. Our challenge is to capitalize on their talents and enthusiasm, and utilize it to further our mission and to better serve the warfighter.”

More than 1,120 of the NPs hired since 2003 are still at SSC Atlantic, and many who left the command still serve the Navy or Department of Defense in other government positions. NPs are assigned to all SSC Atlantic portfolios and competencies. They have traveled the world doing whatever it takes to provide information warfare solutions to warfighters.

Various types of New Professionals fall under the NP Program umbrella, all with a shared goal of developing their skills and knowledge. NPs come on board under the following programs:

SSC Atlantic Development Program (SCADP) NPs have a minimum of an undergraduate degree and have graduated within the last three years. They are hired into developmental positions (NO-02 or NO-03 and ND-02 or ND-03 with a tar-get grade of NO or ND -04) using the following authorities:

• Direct Hiring Authority (DHA) (Bachelors and Ad-vanced)

• Expedited Hiring Authority (EHA)• Pathways Program• SFS - Section 302 of Public Law 113-274 (Cybersecu-

rity Enhancement Act of 2014) SCADP is a two-year program; during that time the

employee is provided training, developmental rotation opportunities, mentorship and must complete the Master Development Plan.

Naval Acquisition Development Program (NADP) New

Monk: an extraordinary role model

Seed, Nurture, Harvest, Reseed

Sarah Monk of Code 59110 began at SSC Atlantic 10 years ago as a high school intern and later became a New Professional, then a full-time electrical engineer. The Clemson graduate also worked for three years at SSC Pacific in Hawaii while her husband was stationed there. Monk has been a STEM outreach volunteer at both Atlantic and Pacific systems centers, and was recently honored as STEM Outreach Volunteer of the Year. Monk’s “outgoing personality makes her an extraordinary role model and an excellent spokesperson to be the face of SSC Atlantic to our future workforce,” her award citation noted. She was also recently honored in a “Heroes” segment on TV2 (WCBD) News.

Her STEM Outreach initiatives are being adopted by other warfare centers and Navy commands, and her influence on the next generation is nationwide in scope. Sarah Monk

NPs and STEM Outreach create synergy thatensures SSC Atlantic is ready for the future


Professionals are government employees of the Naval Acqui-sition Career Center (NACC) who come to SSC Atlantic to further enhance the DoN acquisition workforce. They are en-try level (GS 7 or 9) and have their own NAAC requirements and developmental plans that must be completed in two or three year. They are paid by NACC and may be assigned to career fields such as attorney, contracts, engineering, cost estimating, financial management, information technology, logistics, program management and test and evaluation. They can be converted to permanent positions upon successful completion of program requirements.

Human Resource Career Program (HRCP) NPs are en-try level Navy government employees and must complete a one- to two-year development program that focuses on formal training, developmental assignments and rotational opportunities. The employee can be converted to a perma-nent position upon successful completion. SSC Atlantic typically has one or two HRCP billets per year.

Financial Management Career Program (FMCP) New Professionals are part of the Pathways Recent Graduate Pro-gram which allows recent graduates to enter civilian financial management career positions with the Navy and Marine Corps. They are entry level and their program includes 28 months of professional development through academic and on-the-job training. Upon successful completion of the program, FMCPs are considered for permanent financial positions where they have been training.

Workforce Recruitment Program (WRP) NPs are recent graduates with disabilities. The goal of this government-wide program co-sponsored by DoD and the Department of Labor is to increase the representation of persons with disabilities in the federal and private workforce.

These NP programs are focused on the employee’s profes-sional development and providing rotational opportunities to find their passion in support of SSC Atlantic’s mission and the warfighter. SSC Atlantic NPs are engaged from the moment they check onboard, with a specialized orientation program and tours of labs and project sites to better under-stand career options available within SPAWAR. Coursework in leadership development, teamwork and communications, acquisition methodologies and principles of project manage-

ment help develop these future leaders. Other opportunities provided throughout the year further develop their technical knowledge and skills in SSC Atlantic’s mission areas. No matter what specific NP program they are in, each employee has a master development plan that guides their develop-ment for their first two years onboard, after which they are encouraged to pursue graduate degrees. Each NP is as-signed a mentor who guides the NP and monitors his or her progress in meeting program objectives, including formal training, rotations to other program areas of the command, and trips to different SSC Atlantic or SPAWAR locations, Navy ships or major program offices. Mentors help NPs complete an individual development plan (IDP) designed to ensure achievement of core competencies supporting the command’s mission while furthering knowledge in their particular engineering, scientific or business specialty. Upon successful completion of the training requirements, NPs may be noncompetitively converted into the permanent workforce.

“The NP program is focused on the individual’s profes-sional development. Everything from Dale Carnegie to DAWIA to CMMI training is available to them, and we encourage them to pursue graduate degrees” said Pam Bell, Director of SSC Atlantic Total Force Management, 8.1.

Fourteen years after the New Professional program’s inception, NPs have not only helped ensure the continuity of SSC Atlantic’s intellectual capital, but they are also help-ing to attract the next generation of potential employees by reaching out to elementary, middle and high schools through SSC Atlantic’s awarding winning STEM outreach program.

“I fully endorse the idea that successful leaders teach and empower their best and brightest employees to become the new leaders for the next generation. Those are the kind of leaders we need, and that is the sort of leader the New Professional program is designed to produce,” said SSC Atlantic Executive Director Chris Miller.STEM Outreach

Led by SSC Atlantic STEM Outreach Director Shanda Johnson of 7.0, the center’s outreach efforts began in 2009 with National Defense Education Program (NDEP) support.

David E. Parker


Parker: NP of the Year gives backCode 55350’s David Parker began at SSC Atlantic in 2009 as a high school intern.

Recently selected New Professional of the Year, the Clemson graduate was praised for his pursuit of professional and academic self development, and for his volunteer work through SSC Atlantic’s STEM Outreach program.

Parker and fellow New Professional alumnus Sarah Monk created an interactive game for students that teaches cybersecurity. “Cyber Feud” was presented at the Naval Academy’s STEM Best Practice Workshop and is now in use at the Naval Academy in their STEM outreach programs, and by other naval labs and warfare centers. The game is also included in the STEM Outreach tool kit presented to schools throughout the Lowcountry.


Johnson receivesOSD STEM award

Peyton Cavaroc of 56150, an FY10 alumni of the New Professional program, mentors the Eagle Bots robotics team during a competition at Cane Bay Middle School.

Continued from previous pageNPs and STEM Outreach

SSC Atlantic STEM Out-reach Director Shanda John-son was recently honored by the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Research and En-gineering with the STEM Ad-vocate of the Quarter Award.

Over the last five years Johnson has developed a cadre of more than 300 SSC At-lantic volunteers supporting outreach activities to more than 30,000 students. In fiscal year 2016 alone, Johnson enabled 57 For Inspiration & Recognition of Science & Technology (FIRST) robotics teams with more than 800 students and 100 mentors. Last season, robotics competitions in South Carolina reached more than 5,000 parents, students, educators and community members.

Johnson helped establish week-long, hands on, interactive cybersecurity camps at three SSC Atlantic sites, educating more than 200 students annually. SSC Atlantic’s Charleston site also hosts the Palmetto Cyber Defense Competition, an intense cyber network “attack and defend” contest. For the past four years, this two-day weekend event has impacted more than 200 high school and college students each year. She has spearheaded programs providing opportunities to minority, disad-vantaged and underserved community students, such as Girls Day Out and My Brother’s Keeper.

“It is clear that you have gone above and beyond in your dedication to STEM outreach and advocacy on behalf of the Department of Defense,” said Mary J. Miller, Acting Assistant Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering when presenting the award to Johnson Feb. 22 at the Pentagon. “You are truly de-serving of this honor.”

Continued on page 16

Key assistant coordinators include Karen Cooke, Lakeisha Williams, Anishi Scott and Kelly Thompson.

Each year the STEM Outreach Program has grown to include more events and more collaboration with local school districts, colleges, universities and local businesses. Events include FIRST robotics, SeaPerch, DimensionU, DoD Math Games, Girls’ Day Out, My Brother’s Keeper, Palmetto Cyber Defense Competition, Palmetto Cyber Security Summer Camp, career fairs, career academies, National IT Shadow Day, educators and student shadowing opportunities, classroom activities involving speakers and autonomous vehicle demonstrations, trebuchet competitions, Lunch Buddies, school fairs, math and science judging and other educational events.

In addition to the school districts, SSC Atlantic has en-gaged with the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE), Lowcountry STEM Collaborative, Lowcountry Technical Academy, The Citadel’s STEM Center of Excellence, Col-lege of Charleston, Trident Technical College, Society of Women Engineers, the S.C. Historically Black Colleges and Universities Consortium, Department of Energy, Charleston Chamber of Commerce, Naval Health Clinic, the Office of Naval Research and businesses such as Boeing, Bosch, Google and NUCOR Steel.

The outreach effort has grown to SSC Atlantic’s detach-ments in Hampton Roads and New Orleans. In 2016 alone, more than 36,500 students and 734 teachers at 125 schools were impacted in 213 events held across SSC Atlantic. More than 450 employees donated more than 21,600 total hours through the STEM and community outreach.

“SSC Atlantic’s outreach has reenergized local schools,

students, parents, affinity groups and business partners in the national security imperative to get students interested in the STEM skills,” said Johnson. Robotics teams from elementary, middle and high schools sponsored and men-tored by SSC Atlantic volunteers have progressed to state and national levels.

SSC Atlantic’s Cybersecurity Outreach has attracted students to cybersecurity. The team created a new cyber-security module and helped to change the curriculum for the S.C Department of Education’s Career and Technology Education (CATE) Program by including a cybersecurity track. This has increased student interest in cybersecurity

Johnson


SSC Atlantic’s own Manuel B. Noesi was recently honored at the Hispanic Engineer National Achievement Awards Conference (HENAAC) Great Minds in STEM as part of the 2016 Class of mili-tary and civilian honorees from the armed forces.

Noesi is the IT Specialist System Administrator in support of the Per-sonalized Recruiting for Immediate and Delayed Enlistment Modern-ization (PRIDE MOD) program in New Orleans. He is responsible for various systems architecture sup-port in addition to application and technical support.

Noesi administers the installation, configuration, opera-tional testing, troubleshooting and maintenance of the orga-nization’s hardware and software systems, which includes virtual server systems (VMware). Noesi supports system configuration and applied security, continuously ensuring the availability of the systems/servers in alignment for pro-duction operations within or before due dates.

He was also instrumental in the implementation of the Tivoli monitoring system for the SSC Atlantic New Orleans

Noesi honored as a Great Mind in STEMData Center. Through his extensive research and analysis, the Tivoli monitoring system produced a cost savings of $1 million on implemen-tation costs.

As part of a research study for technology company Storage Tech performed at Bayamon Central University, Puerto Rico, Noesi performed in-depth research and analysis on state-of-the-art robotic arm technology. His findings pro-duced an innovative implementation of a robotic arm capable of loading and unloading tape cartridges for Mass Storage Tape Drive units.

He demonstrated the robotic arm during a technology convention held at the university. His demonstration led to the implementation and acceptance of a working robotic arm for the Social Security Administration tape drive operations.

Great Minds in STEM™ identifies and showcases the achievements of the nation’s most talented engineers and scientists within the Hispanic community. Noesi competed in the overall HENAAC Awards categories, and for the STEM Military and Civilian Hero Awards.

Walter Runck of SSC Atlantic’s 43340 was presented the 2016 Joint Base Charleston Volunteer Excellence Award Feb. 3 during a ceremony on the Air Force Base. Runck “generously and consistently gave himself to various Sci-ence, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) efforts at SSC Atlantic,” the award noted. As a SeaPerch lead, Runck facilitated the Charleston Challenge regional SeaPerch competition and served as a mentor for the schools. After working hours and weekends, Runck helps participat-ing teachers and students understand how SeaPerch relates to current and future work challenges.

Runck has been a uniformed volunteer member of the United States Coast Guard (USCG) Auxiliary for many years, serving as boat crew, air crew, communications watch stander and in other capacities with active duty personnel at Sector Charleston and subordinate commands. He was also elected Flotilla Commander for his unit. According to Runck, his Coast Guard Auxiliary experience helps him relate to high school students and his coworkers from a nautical perspective in addition to an engineering one. The USCG and community have been the beneficiaries of more than 500 hours and expertise Runck donates every year.

Joint Base Charleston Commander Col. Robert Lyman presents Walter Runck the Joint Base Charleston Volunteer Excellence Award Feb. 3.

Runck recognized for STEM outreach efforts


Joint Base Charleston volunteer award

Noesi


DoN Innovator: Dr. Lucas Overbey By DON Innovation

Dr. Lucas Overbey, a research engineer at SSC Atlan-tic and the lead for the SSC Atlantic Analytics Research Center (ARC), was recently featured on the Secretary of the Navy’s innovation website.

As the principal investigator on multiple ongoing and previous data analytics projects and a leading data ana-lytics innovator, Dr. Overbey has contributed greatly to basic and applied research and workforce development. Supported by the Naval Innovative Science and Engi-neering (NISE) program, he conceptualized and led the establishment of the SSC Atlantic ARC. The ARC was created to bring together researchers from computer sci-ence, statistics, mathematics, psychology, sociology and engineering disciplines to jointly write proposals, support and coordinate training in relevant subject areas, hold topi-cal seminars, and allow members to present their current work for review and feedback by other ARC members.

Dr. Overbey proposed and was awarded NISE funds to research new approaches to automatic analyses of social media data with a focus on extracting relevant geographic information. He developed a novel approach to automati-cally extracting precise information using message con-

tent and social connections between users.

This led to the develop-ment of several related in-novative natural language processing and network ana-lytic capabilities, including sentiment analysis, entity extraction, topic modeling, mixed-language parsing, and identification of influencers. His research is being transi-tioned to U.S. European Command and U.S. Marine Corps Intelligence. As they are implemented, his proj-ects are expected to greatly improve a primarily manual analysis process by filtering task-pertinent information and turning data into actionable knowledge. This automa-tion will increase efficiency and allow people to focus on inherently human tasks.

Read more about Dr. Overbey’s work at http://www.secnav.navy.mil/innovation/Pages/2017/01/SPAWARAna-lytics.aspx.

and is helping to develop a future cybersecurity workforce in South Carolina.

This has also greatly enlarged the recruiting pools for STEM-related opportunities at SSC Atlantic. In addition to the Pathways employment program, the STEM outreach team implemented two additional hiring programs funded by ONR: the Science and Engineering Apprenticeship Program (SEAP) for high school students and the Naval Research Enterprise Internship Program (NREIP) for college students. Seed, Nurture, Harvest and Reseed

The value of establishing a successful STEM pipeline and employing a STEM literate workforce cannot be understated, for SSC Atlantic and for the nation. NPs and other dedicated STEM volunteers are engaging and attracting the future naval scientists and engineers who will fill the pipeline for tomorrow’s high-tech jobs. Working with underserved and underrepresented groups, they are also helping to generate a broader, more diversified base of future scientists and engineers.

Johnson’s theme for the program is “Seed, Nurture, Harvest and Reseed,” to convey the idea that SSC Atlantic volunteers begin with young minds at the elementary school level to plant the seeds of STEM career possibilities, nurtur-ing students on the journey that leads them to high school

and college internships, and harvesting, through the NP program or other hiring authorities, to becoming SPAWAR employees. Then the new employee returns and serves as a mentor and inspiration to the next generation (reseed).

SSC Atlantic has already began to reap the return on its investment in the STEM Outreach and NP programs. New Professionals who participated in internship programs in high school and college are currently employed at SSC Atlantic and making valuable contributions to warfighters. “Our New Professionals grew up in the IT environment and live that social environment,” noted Miller. “Many kids don’t know what engineers and scientists do. NPs can relate to young people on a different level. They show them that people from their same communities, schools and socio-economic backgrounds can be scientists and engineers. They are great role models, and can really excite enthusiasm about STEM careers.”

“Developing our workforce to answer future needs re-quires investment,” said Heller. “Investing in our people – in hiring the right folks, in training them, and in determining and developing future competencies in technology, education and business. That is what we are doing here and the New Professionals program and STEM outreach are a big part of our current and future success,” he added.

To view a video highlighting SSC Atlantic outreach ac-tivities go to https://www.youtube.com/user/TEAMSPAWAR and select “SSC Atlantic STEM Compilation.”

- Susan Piedfort, Chronicle Editor

NPs and STEMContinued from page 14

Overbey


Eight SSC Atlantic Charleston employees collaborated and worked with community organizations to provide a private viewing of the movie “Hidden Figures” for more than 700 local girls Jan. 7.

Shanda Johnson, Anishi Scott, Amanda Patterson-Womble Ayanna Miller, Julia Byas, Ruth Byas, Martina Jackson and Shameika Williams also helped arrange panel discussions featuring prominent female STEM role models in the Charleston area after the movie showings.

The team reserved four theatres with a total of 900 seats for the girls from grades 5-12 and a parent or special guest to attend free of charge. During the panel discussions the professionals gave testimonials and discussed obstacles they faced and triumphed over to become successful in their careers. They encouraged and inspired the students to pursue STEM careers and make a difference in their com-munities and country.

Panel members were Margie Morris, retired CEO and co-founder of Parallax Incorporated; Joan V. Robinson-Berry, Vice President of Boeing South Carolina; Jasmine Kang, CEO of Cummins Charleston; Dr. Katy Richardson, Medical Director of DHEC; Dr. Paula Orr, gynecologist and owner

of Charleston Women’s Wellness Center; Jocelyn Stargel, Information Technology and Risk Management Consultant (industrial engineer); Latrice Spann, Colgate-Palmolive manufacturing engineer (graduate of Charleston County School); Ashley Green, Ph.D., MUSC biologist; Kimberly Washington, MUSC EPIC clinical analyst; Barbra Nwokike, retired SSC Atlantic engineer; and Lili Harris Wright, Ph.D., cancer and cardiovascular biologist at MUSC.

“Hidden Figures” tells the story of mathematicians Katherine G. Johnson (Taraji P. Henson), Dorothy Vaughan (Octavia Spencer) and Mary Jackson (Janelle Monáe), African-American women working at NASA who served as the brains behind one of the greatest operations in history: the launch of astronaut John Glenn into orbit and Alan Shepard into space. The visionary trio crossed all gender and race lines to inspire generations to dream big.

The private viewing for the girls was designed to develop their interest, excitement and self confidence to empower them to be competitive with their male counterparts. A Feb. 14 free showing of the movie drew another 1,000 students, including boys.

‘Hidden Figures’ ignites STEM interestFrom left, SSC Atlantic’s Anishi Scott, Martina Jackson, Ayanna Miller, Amanda Patterson-Womble, Shanda Johnson, Shameika Williams, Ruth Byas and Julia Byas pose in the atrium after organizing movie viewings.



Clemson hosts Center leadershipSSC Atlantic leadership paid a visit to the SCE&G Energy

Innovation Center on the former Charleston Naval Base Feb. 21 to discuss past and future research opportunities between SSC Atlantic and Clemson University, and how the two enti-ties can work together to expand cybersecurity programs.

Visiting from SSC Atlantic were Commanding Officer Capt. Scott Heller, Executive Director Chris Miller, Deputy Executive Director Bill Deligne, Chief Technology Officer/Science and Technology Competency Lead Dr. Al Emondi, Systems of Systems Engineering Competency Lead David Smoak and Public Affairs Officer Lonnie Cowart.

Taking part in the discussions from Clemson University were President Dr. James Clements; Vice President and Chief of Staff Max Allen; Provost and Executive Vice President, Office of Academic Affairs Dr. Bob Jones; Vice President, External Affairs Angela Leidinger; Associate Vice President, Office of Academic Affairs Dr. Randy Collins; Electrical Engineering and Computer Engineering Depart-ment Chair Dr. Dan Noneaker; Duke Energy Endowed Chair and Director, Energy Innovation Center Dr. Johan Enslin; Facility Director for Energy Innovation Center Dr. Curtiss Fox; and Director of Corporate Relations and Community Affairs Elizabeth Colbert-Busch.

After a welcome by Clements, Heller outlined SSC Atlantic’s strategic overview and areas of research and workforce development.

Clemson officials gave an academic program overview of the Clemson University Restoration Institute (CURI) and Zucker Family Graduate Education Center (ZFGEC), SSC Atlantic and Clemson leaders briefed each other on

areas of research and opportunities for collaboration.

The Zucker Family Graduate Education Center, left, and SCE&G Energy Innovation Center, right, are located on the Clemson University Restoration Institute (CURI) campus on the former Charleston Naval Base.

Collaboration opportunities explored

Photos by Joe Bullinger


testing services to industry that will lead to lowering the cost of energy delivered by wind power.

“There are many ways we can work together for com-mon goals,” said Clemson’s Clements, “and we look for-ward to exploring those options.”

followed by a discussion of Duke Energy eGRID projects, Further discussions centered on cybersecurity course

offerings and educational opportunities for SSC Atlantic’s workforce and plans for additional programs at ZFGEC in cybersecurity and physical systems. The group also discussed how additional hires at the ZFGEC can help expand and support SSC Atlantic cybersecurity programs, training oppor-tunities and future collaboration for advanced technical and software degrees. The Clemson team said they are anxious to visit SSC Atlantic to see firsthand the center’s capabilities.

After a working lunch and opportunities discussion, the SSC Atlantic visitors toured the Energy Center.

Clemson’s innovation campus at the former naval base began in 2009 with a $45 million grant from the U.S. De-partment of Energy (DoE) to design, build and operate a facility capable of full-scale, highly accelerated testing of next-generation wind turbine drivetrain technology.

The Duke Energy Electrical Grid Research Innovation and Development (eGRID) Center is housed in the SCE&G Energy Innovation Center. The 15-megawatt hardware-in-the-loop grid simulator supports education, research and economic development to speed new electrical technologies to market. The eGRID can simulate the electrical grid of any country in the world.

DoE’s Office of Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy objectives for the project are to accelerate the development and deployment of new wind turbine technology, reduce the cost of energy and support the country’s push towards energy independence.

The mission of the drivetrain testing facility is to provide

Above, SSC Atlantic Commanding Officer Capt. Scott Heller listens as Executive Director Chris Miller makes a point during the discussion. Below, from left, Miller, Deligne, Emondi, Cowart and Smoak are briefed in a control room of the Energy Center.


Demonstration: Paving the Way for Disruptive Technologies

cTO cOrner dr. Al emOndi

SSc ATlAnTic chief TechnOlOgy Officer

Recently, we have been increasing awareness regarding the need to demonstrate and socialize our Naval Innovative Science and Engineering (NISE)-funded technology devel-opment efforts with potential sponsors.

With the Congressionally-directed doubling of our NISE budget in fiscal year 2018, technology demonstration and acceptance will become even more important. Working in the field of new technology has always been demanding; not just in the development of the technology itself, but also gaining acceptance of the technology with our sponsors. Are we investing in the right technology space? Are we taking enough of a risk in our technology program? How do we get others to acquire the technology after we develop it?

We have answered the first question through the develop-ment of our Technical Strategy, which highlights a number of Technology Growth Areas that will require additional exploration to maintain and increase our knowledge to best support the needs of our future naval warfighters. Answering the second and third questions compel us to consider our innovation ambitions and how we evangelize our successes.

There is a well known innovation management pitfall in which organizations can focus much of their new develop-ment money on their core business base. Investments in these

core products tend to optimize on known capabilities and performance measures. This appears to be a safe strategy since the customer base is already strong, and doing things a little better or a little faster will keep customers coming back. For some organizations, upwards of 80 percent or more of discretionary investment funds can be solely focused on simply optimizing and incrementally improving their core technical products.

Under that environment, introduction of disruptive tech-nology is quite challenging due to the significant corporate momentum behind existing cost structures and business models.

There are exceptions where disruption can be self-induced. One famous example was the Netflix decision to re direct from one of their predominant markets -- their video mail delivery service -- and build state-of-the-art streaming capability to replace it. While this decision risked the loss of their mail delivery business base, their disruptive approach opened Netflix up to a larger and younger market base that eventually well surpassed all previous business models.

Internal or external disruption is not sufficient in itself. For a disruptive technology to be successful, you must



By Tom Glaab, 72000and Tonya Hamann, 70C00

The Naval Innovative Science and Engineering (NISE) Program was established as a result of legislation contained in Section 219 of the fiscal year 2009 National Defense Authorization Act. The program is intended to fund basic and applied research, transition of technologies, workforce development and recapitalization efforts at defense labora-tories, including SSC Atlantic.

In February of 2016 the Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Research, Development and Acquisition (ASN(RDA)) directed that “DASN (RDT&E) shall host an annual Techni-cal Exchange Meeting (TEM) showcasing NISE initiatives successfully completed by the R&DE (Research and De-velopment Establishment).” The first NISE TEM was held February 28 and March 1, 2017 at Naval Surface Warfare Center Carderock Division (NSWC-CD) in West Bethesda, Maryland.

The SSC Atlantic NISE program nominated 14 project leaders to present their work at the TEM. Almost 200 projects were presented from across SPAWAR, NAVSEA, NAVAIR and NRL. While the invitation list included “senior NR&DE

leaders; leadership and technical representatives from ONR, Systems Commands, Program Executive Offices; OPNAV/HQMC Resource Sponsors; ASN (FM&C); ASN (EI&E); Naval Warfighting Development Centers and the Marine Corps Warfighting Lab,” the posters and discussion were kept fairly technical and stimulated a lot of good peer-to-peer discussions. Many project leaders also brought examples of their work products, especially in the additive manufacturing (3D printing) field. There was even a SEAL delivery vehicle that was printed at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory.

SSC Atlantic scientists and engineers who presented at the TEM and their projects were:

Dr. Scott Batson Predicting Lattice Reduction on Ideal Lattices

Brooke Baker Characterization of Electro-Optical Systems in Salt Fog

Dr. Evan Austin Embedded Reasoning through Domain Specific Languages

Dr. Jamie Lyle Standoff Layered Face Recognition

Dr. John Burrow addresses scientists from the Naval Research and Development Establishment (NR&DE) at the NISE Technical Exchange Meeting.

SSC Atlantic projects featured at first TEM



Dr. Lucas Overbey Analytics Research Center (ARC) Initiative

Dr. Lucas Overbey Project InquisitorDr. Matthew Riedy Measuring Cognitive Load to

Improve Situational AwarenessDr. Patrick Kahl Optimizing an Epistemic Logic

Program Solver: Conformant PlanningDr. Ralph Crosby Adaptive Classification

of Naval Network TrafficMichael McBeth Range Tracking Using

Passive Solar IlluminationMichael McBeth Reflection Discriminator: Using the

Atmosphere to Defeat Modern Radar JammersPhillippe Reed Lidar Precision Navigation

and TimingPhillippe Reed Modulated Retroreflector CubeSatRicardo Rivera Defend & Jump

Dr. Overbey also gave a talk “Data Analytics: Current State and Near Horizon.”

SSC Atlantic presentations described work in our Techni-cal Growth Areas including assured communications, data science and analytics, and cyber warfare. In addition to the presenters, SSC Atlantic sent a number of other scientists and engineers to learn about the work being done across the NR&DE, and to seek opportunities for collaboration.

NSWC-CD has a presentation and meeting facility called the Maritime Technology Information Center (MTIC) which hosted the event. Two rooms were used for posters, with half of the total being shown each day. The auditorium was used for general sessions and principal investigator talks. Half of each day was reserved for the poster session and collabora-tion, and the other half of the day was spent in leadership or scientist presentations.

Dr. John Burrow, DASN (RDT&E), hosted the event, and kicked it off with his thanks and appreciation for all the impressive work being done under the NISE program. He stressed how S&T needs to be innovative, with the ability to fail. He contrasted that with the need for programs of record to meet rigorous deadlines with no room for failure.

His challenge to the S&T community was to take the risks to deliver reliable products to the fleet.

On the second day of the TEM, Dr. Burrow returned to share his experience and talk to the presenters. He called out one scientist in particular for having a spirit of science that everyone should emulate. He asked the scientist, “What will you do with this technology when you finish your ex-periment?”

He got the reply, “Sir, I don’t even know if it will work!” That scientist is our own Michael McBeth, who is currently embedded at NASA Langley Research Center in Hampton, Virginia.

Rear Adm.David J. Hahn, Chief of Naval Research and Director of Innovation, Technology Requirements and Test & Evaluation (OPNAV N94) spoke to the importance of S&T in the Navy.

The Navy 30-year Research and Development (R&D) plan was presented at a very high level by Dr. Dale Moore, DASN (RDTE) Director for Strategy. The document had just been signed, so the TEM audience was one of the first to hear about the Navy’s guidance for R&D, including focus on technical areas, the naval R&D workforce, and our infra-structure. This is an important document that will influence future research and funding choices made by the NR&DE.

Another key brief was given on the Rapid Prototyping, Experimentation, and Demonstration (RPED) process that was created and run by DASN (RDTE).This brief explored how RPED events work, how projects are evaluated and future events that are planned. It also showed how RPED fits within the overall naval push for rapid fielding and prototyp-ing detailed in SECNAV Instruction 5000.42.

The TEM brought together the Naval Chief Technology Officer (CTO) community, which had its own sidebar ses-sion to discuss common interests. The leaders of the NISE programs at each center also took advantage of the oppor-tunity to discuss common processes and tools to encourage collaboration between the labs.

The TEM was regarded as a success, and the participants look forward to conducting more in the future, most likely on an annual basis.

overcome the initially perceived risk, and it must be ultimately adopted.

The best way to overcome both of these hurdles is to build out your idea to a point where it can be demonstrated in a relevant environment. This serves two primary goals: proves the technology is realizable and provides an envi-ronment where it is possible for the eventual customer to internalize and truly relate to the impact of the technology

Continued from page 20in a setting that they are familiar with. Another aspect to keep in mind, as many developers have found, are if customers are serious about adopting new technology of-ferings they will tend to choose technologies that offer new capabilities over those products that just offer incremental improvements on existing technologies.

In many cases if the technology truly provides new capabilities, the risk associated with adoption is more tolerable than the less exciting tried and true solutions that merely represent performance enhancements.

cTO cOrner


More than 250 people attended SSC Atlantic’s first quarterly technology exchange with industry March 9 at Trident Technical College. The exchange focused on the Technology Growth Area (TGA) topics of cloud computing and data science/analytics.

The technology exchange allowed SSC Atlantic to increase collaboration and com-munication with industry by exchanging ideas about specific challenges and potential solutions in the TGA topics. It provided an opportunity for government and industry subject matter experts (SMEs) to engage in meaningful dialogue to discuss problems en-countered, innovative solutions and potential efficiencies in meeting naval challenges.

Fifty-eight white papers from industry were received in advance of the exchange, and 45 one-on-one or breakout sessions were held. SSC Atlantic representatives with ex-pertise in cloud computing and data science/analytics reviewed industry papers, manned discussion panels and staffed one-on-one sessions.

The technology exchange began with the plenary session in the morning, followed by the government-led and staffed panels on each of the TGA topics.

SSC Atlantic Technical Director Andrew

Mansfield moderated a cloud computing panel which in-cluded Jason Anderson, Keith Boaman, Edmond Kuqo, Robert Neuman, Eric Eng and special panel member Charles

Technology exchange fuels collaborationsAndrew Mansfield, SSC Atlantic Technical Director, moderates a panel discussion on cloud computing during SSC Atlantic’s inaugural technology exchange.

One-on-one sessions between SSC Atlantic and industry representatives were held throughout the day.




By David WalmanSSC Atlantic IO/ISR Mission Engineering

Government scientists and engineers typically spend their days behind a desk or in a lab environment and rarely, if ever, have the occasion to experience an actual operational environment. Directed out of the Office of Naval Research (ONR), the Scientist to Sea program gives civilian person-nel -- those who design and develop equipment and weapon systems for the Navy -- an opportunity to experience life at sea from the perspective of the men and women in uniform that operate and maintain those weapon systems.

This particular trip consisted of four days and three nights aboard USS Harpers Ferry (LSD-49). The USS Harpers Ferry is a Harpers Ferry-class dock landing ship that transports and launches amphibious craft and vehicles with their crews and embarked personnel in amphibious assault operations. LSD-49 supports amphibious operations including landings via Landing Craft Air Cushion (LCACs), conventional landing craft, including Rigid Inflatable Boats (RIBs) and Combatant Craft Assault (CCAs), and helicop-ters onto unfriendly shores.

We were encouraged to interact with everyone on board,

Scientists to Sea:

The sun sets behind USS Harpers Ferry (LSD 49) in May of 2016 when the dock landing ship was part of the Boxer Amphibious Ready Group, deployed in support of maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the 5th Fleet area of operations.

Photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Zachary Eshleman

CCAs depart the well deck of USS Harpers Ferry during night operations.

SSC Atlantic civiliansexperience life at sea

Photo by David Walman


from the CO to the seaman, in order to gain understanding of the ship, its performance and its equipment -- from radios to weapons systems. The ship maintained its demanding schedule the entire time we were on board, and we were given the opportunity to observe a Burial at Sea ceremony as well as SEAL Team exercises -- from night and day flight operations, crane operations for launching and retrieving RIBs, and flooding the well deck for launching and retriev-ing CCAs.

Crew members were always more than helpful in explain-ing their duties and responsibilities, which demonstrated the teamwork and commitment of the entire crew. We were given the opportunity to tour every space on the ship -- from aft steering to the bridge -- and meet with Sailors from every department.

On Day 1 we boarded the ship around 0900 and were shown our messing and berthing. By 1030, we were under-way. That afternoon we watched Navy SEALs parachute out of a plane into the water, where they boarded RIBs and CCAs. Over the next few hours, the well deck was flooded and the CCAs attempted to drive in; however, the seas were too rough and the RIBs were craned onboard.

Day 2 began with Reveille at 0600! There was a Burial at Sea that morning where Sailors were laid to rest. We were given an engineering tour of the ship, from Aft Steering, A/C plants, engines and water plants. That evening boat decks were manned to begin RIB Operations and ballast for CCA Operations. Two Sikorsky SH-60 Seahawk helicop-ters landed in the pitch-black and refueled while on deck. Just before midnight, we began to ballast for recovery of CCAs in the well deck. Day 3 consisted of additional CCA and RIB launches, and helicopter landings for hot pump, and loading additional passengers for another exercise. We ended the evening burning a cigar with the USS Harpers Ferry Commanding Officer Cmdr. J.P. Rigby by the bridge.

The final day happened to be the Marine Corps birthday. We had a Detect to Engage exercise where a Learjet flew over the ship at 300 feet to activate the 20mm Phalanx Close-In Weapon System (CIWS) and Rolling Airframe Missile (RAM) launchers. We were moored back in San Diego by 1400.

I cannot convey enough how much I recommend other SPAWAR scientists and engineers participate in this pro-gram! We are here to support the warfighter, and this trip provided me with better understanding of naval operations, the shipboard environment and the employment of the sys-tems I have helped design. This opportunity was invaluable in providing the Sailors the chance to engage with scientists and engineers directly to give candid feedback on what works and doesn’t work on the systems.

Finally, we must remember the difficulties of being with-out their families and the dangers our warfighters face on a daily basis. This experience gave me a renewed appreciation for those men and women in uniform who put their lives on the line to serve and protect our country.

Above, the visiting scientists pause for a photo op on the USS Harpers Ferry deck. They are, from left, Brandon Will of NSWC, Travis Faith and David Walman of SSC Atlantic, Johanna Ryan and Jonathan Butler of NSLC and Graham Sanborn of SSC Pacific. Below, night ops included RIB operations and a Seahawk refueling.

Photos by David Walman


C5ISR Summit brings leaders togetherDepartment of Defense, Navy, SPAWAR and SSC At-

lantic leaders, industry partners and community leaders were among more than 1,300 attendees at the 10th annual Charleston Defense Contractors Association (CDCA) C5ISR Summit in Charleston, Dec. 6 through 9.

The C5ISR (Command, Control, Communication, Computer, Combat Systems, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance) Summit is an educational and networking

event that connects the wide range of players across the de-fense industry and preserves the defense industry’s positive economic impact on the Charleston region.

In addition to SSC Atlantic Commanding Officer Capt. Scott Heller and Executive Director Chris Miller, this year’s prominent CDCA summit speakers included Vice Adm. Jan Tighe, Deputy Chief of Naval Operations for Information Warfare/Director of Naval Intelligence; Rear Adm. David

H. Lewis, then-SPAWAR commander; Rear Adm. Christian Becker, then-PEO, Command, Control, Communi-cations, Computers and Intelligence (C4I)/PEO SPACE and now SPAWAR commander; and Brig. Gen. Dennis Crall, Director, C4, HQMC/Chief In-formation Officer (CIO), USMC.

More than 150 SSC Atlantic em-ployees participated in or attended the event, hosting and moderating techni-cal tracks and panels aligned to SSC Atlantic’s portfolios, giving tech talks at the SSC Atlantic booths and making briefing theater presentations.

The C5ISR Summit also showcased the top three submissions from the CDCA’s 6th Annual Student Mobile App Competition and the HackWarz Competition, running simultaneously with the event. These competitions pro-vide students, developers and aspiring defense industry experts the chance to

Above, left, then-SPAWARSYSCOM Commander Rear Adm. David Lewis checks out a booth at the C5ISR Summit. Above right, SSC Atlantic Commanding Officer Capt. Scott Heller speaks on the first day of the gathering. Below, from left, SSC Atlantic’s then-Director of Management Operations David Monahan, former SSC Atlantic Commanding Of-ficer Red Hoover, former SPAWAR Commander Michael Bachmann and SSC Atlantic Contracts Competency Lead Steve Harnig chat during a break at the summit.



showcase their technology prowess to more than 1,000 industry executives and influenc-ers. In addition to monetary rewards, some of last year’s mobile app contest winners also received employment offers.

This summit is one of the largest of its kind in the Southeast and not only brings together major players in the industry, but also provides education for future generations of industry leaders through activities such as the Student Mobile App Competition, which offers devel-opment support, marketing expertise, mentor-ship and guidance for participants.

The 42nd Small Business Industry Out-reach Initiative (SBIOI) was held on the last day of the summit and featured an SSC Atlan-tic leadership update from Heller, a brief by the director of Navy Office of Small Business Programs Emily Harman, and an update on SSC Atlantic contracts initiatives, metrics and contracting opportunies by Contracts Lead Steve Harnig. Also highlighting the day was an innovative “reverse industry day,” which allowed a panel of industry leaders to provide valuable feedback to the entire SSC Atlantic Contracts Team.

Above, SSC Atlantic Executive Director Chris Miller briefs summit at-tendees. Below, Michael Smith, an electronics engineer in 55210 chats with visitors at an SSC Atlantic booth.


Judges look on from above and under the water as a SeaPerch team guides its remotely operated vehicle (ROV) through a series exercises during a March 22 competition at Danny Jones Pool in North Charleston. Teams mentored by SSC Atlantic volunteers had a chance to show their skills during the underwater competition. SeaPerch gives stu-dents the opportunity to learn about robotics, engineering, science and math while building the underwater ROV in the classroom with help from SSC Atlantic mentors. They learn engineering concepts, problem solving, teamwork

and technical applications. The Office of Naval Research-sponsored SeaPerch curriculum also includes discussions of potential careers in technical and engineering fields, as well as related fields of study. Building a SeaPerch ROV also teaches basic skills in ship and submarine design and encourages students to explore naval architecture and marine and ocean engineering principles. Students learn important engineering and design skills and are exposed to careers possibilities in naval architecture and naval, ocean and marine engineering.


SeaPerch ROVs go through their underwater paces

Continued from page 23Technology exchange fuels collaborationsDaniels from MARCORSYSCOM PMM-110.

Al Emondi, Science and Technology , moderated the Data Science and Analytics panel, which included Matt Largent, David England, Adam Tyson, Rob Keisler, Matthew Brown, James Sauvinet and Mark Poe.

Three breakout separate sessions on cloud computing were manned by SSC Atlantic’s Alex Hudson, Robert Neu-man, Eric Eng, John Hayes, Darren Turner, Erik Gardner, Chad Moye, Keith Boaman, Betty Knot, Jason Anderson, Janice Alster and Edmund Kuqo.

Three sessions on data science/analytics were led by James Sauvinet, Adam Tyson, Andrew McLoud, Matt Brown, Robert Keisler, Mark Poe, Suzanne Huerth, David England and Dr. Lucas Overbey.

In addition Bruce Carter, Glen Hoffman, Ray Terminie

and Wade Fernandez sat in on many of the breakout sessions throughout the day. No discussions were directly tied to any specific future solicitations. The groups discussed specific ideas that could produce positive outcomes in the form of greater efficiency, innovative solutions and opening the aperture for solving technical problems.

Organized by SSC Atlantic’s Kathryn Murphy, Clair Commodore-Wheeler, Bethany Calabrese, Amy Russell and Robin Rourk, the exchange offered not only great net-working and a valuable exchange of ideas, but also lessons learned. Feedback from attendees indicated the forum was informative and beneficial for industry, giving them a bet-ter understanding of where SSC Atlantic is going in cloud computing and data science technologies.

The next technology exchange is scheduled May 25 and will focus on assured communications and cyber warfare.


Groundhog Shadow Dayheld at SSC AtlanticPunxsutawney Phil came out Feb. 2 and saw his own shadow, while students from local schools came to SSC At-lantic to see exciting career possibilities during Groundhog Shadow Day. At SSC Atlantic the students visited the non-destructive testing lab and learned about the importance of testing components before they are released to the fleet for warfighter use. During a visit to SSC Atlantic’s Unmanned Systems Research Range, the students learned how soft-

ware is developed to control unmanned aerial vehicles such as quadcopters as they perform reconnaissance and surveillance missions. Before departing they also were able to explore a military tank vehicle, inside and out.


Crisis in Black EducationIn recognition of Black History Month, SSC Atlantic’s

Special Program Black Employment Team, in collaboration with the National Society of Black Engineers Association Chapter, hosted a Brown Bag Forum to address “The Crisis in Black Education” Feb. 23.

SSC Atlantic employees Tony Jones, Amanda Patterson-Womble, Omar Frazier, David Warner, Vernon Pryor and Sedrick Stewart served as panel members to discuss the topic, while the discussion was streamed via VTC to all SSC Atlantic locations.

EEO Deputy Bridget Lanier kicked off the program and introduced guest speaker Commanding Officer Capt. Scott Heller. The captain discussed a recent report that revealed ge-netic material from individuals in Africa, China and Europe were overlaid and DNA results showed people in all areas are 99.9 percent the same. He noted that many may focus on differences among people of different backgrounds, but individuals with various heritages are less than .1 percent unique. In fact, studies show there are more differences among people within the same racial groups than between racial groups.

While wedges still exist between various groups that require persistence to overcome, Heller said he’s proud of how dramatically inclusivity has improved during his 28-year Navy career.

The black education crisis began in slavery, when African Americans were forbidden to read or write, and continued with racially segregated schools. In 1960 the first black child to attend a white school had to be escorted by four federal marshalls for the entire school year. As black men and women began to integrate traditionally white colleges, continuing progress was made, but much work remains, the panelists agreed. Heller encouraged all attendees to doggedly pursue their goals if they want to volunteer in recruiting and make a difference in other areas.

At top, Chiffon Watkins, Atlantic representative from the National Society for Black Engineers, addresses the group. Above, panelists share their unique experiences during the panel discussion.

Panelists address issue during Brown Bag Forum



SSC Atlantic Commanding Offi-cer Capt. Scott Heller speaks to as-sembled Marines, active duty and retired, during a Marine Corps birthday observance at Bldg. 198 on the former Charleston Naval Base Nov. 10. The observance featured SSC Atlantic Marines, Marine industry partners, active duty Marines from the Naval Con-solidated Brig permanent person-nel, North Charleston recruiters and CLB-451. “I take great pride in the critical information warfare systems SSC Atlantic provides to today’s Marines,” the captain said. “Placed in the hands of Marine leaders, our systems enable the command of forces that creates options and decision space for our nation’s leaders. We


Celebrating the Marine Corps’ 241st birthday

SSC Atlantic employees celebrate a day of good, hard work after wrapping up projects at North Charleston High School. The employees took annual leave Nov. 18. to work at the high school baseball and football stadium as part of the Trident United Way Day of Caring. SSC Atlantic has worked at the school since 2014, painting cougar paws, creating flower beds and planting flowers, installing dugout fences and other improvements. During the latest visit they installed fence toppers on the dugout fences, spruced up flower beds and “planted” a statue of the cougar mascot in cement. The volunteers were among more than 6,000 people from businesses throughout the Lowcountry who worked on 275 projects at local schools and agencies during the 16th annual Day of Caring.

Paying it forward on Day of CaringPhoto by Susan Piedfort

provide the capability to fight smarter and dominate like no other force in history.” Also speaking was Col. Neil Schuehle, commanding officer of the Navy ROTC Unit at The Citadel.


‘A date that will live in infamy’Photos by Joe Bullinger

SSC Atlantic Commanding Officer Capt. Scott Heller was guest speaker at a Pearl Harbor Memorial Ceremony held on USS Yorktown Dec. 7. Sponsored by Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1062, the ceremony was attended by more than 200 people. This observance commemorated the 75th anniversary of the Pearl Harbor attack, “a date that will live in infamy.”

Heller noted that the Yorktown was an especially fitting site for the observance, since her keep was laid at Newport News Shipyard Dec. 1, 1941 -- exactly six days before the Pearl Harbor attack.

“The events of December 7th, 1941, are well-document-

ed,” Heller told the crowd. “But they bear repeating on every anniversary so that each new generation will know what happened there and will never forget.” The loss of 2,400 Americans – almost 90 percent of them Sailors – was catastrophic, but did not deter the American spirit, he said.

“In fact, the attack on Pearl Harbor united our nation and fueled a determination to not just respond, but to overcome. It was only six months later that the Navy fought the battles of Coral Sea and Midway and eliminated much of Japan’s striking power. For the next four years, our warfighters brought the fight to the enemy … from the Atlantic to the Pacific Oceans and across entire continents,” he said.


Visitors


Tighe learns about SSC Atlantic projects, capabilitiesVice Adm. Jan Tighe, Deputy Chief of Naval Operations for Information Warfare/Direc-tor of Naval Intelligence, is welcomed to SSC Atlantic by Commanding Officer Capt. Scott Heller Dec. 8. While on the Charleston campus Tighe received a command over-view and toured the Data Center. Below, Rear Adm. David H. Lewis, then-SPAWAR commander, left, makes a point during the brief in the Executive Conference Room. Tighe was in Charleston to speak at the 10th annual Charleston Defense Contrac-tors Association (CDCA) C5ISR Summit in Charleston. Formerly deputy commander of the Fleet Cyber Command/10th Fleet, Tighe became Deputy Chief of Naval Operations for Information Warfare/Director of Naval Intelligence in July 2016.


Visitors

Educators from Charleston County School District Career & Technology Education (CTE) programs visited SSC Atlantic Jan. 17 to learn about career opportunities and STEM out-reach at the center. While at SSC Atlantic the educators re-ceived a command brief, learned about student employment op-portunities through the Path-ways Internship, and toured the Multi-Disciplinary Research Center. CTE programs help prepare students for optimal college and career readiness through studies grouped into 16 clusters based on a common set of knowledge and skills. State-recognized CTE programs are offered in middle and high schools throughout the district. Photos by Joe Bullinger

Career and Technology educators see STEM opportunities

Crall discusses Marine Corps command and control strategyMarine Corps Brig. Gen. Den-nis Crall, Director, Command, Control, Communications, Com-puters (C4) HQ Marine Corps/Chief Information Officer, left, takes part in a discussion in the Executive Conference Room dur-ing a Dec. 9 visit. Listening in are Ken Bible, SES, Deputy Direc-tor HQMC C4/Deputy CIO and formerly head of the Networks Engineering Division at SSC Atlantic, and Andrew Mansfield, SSC Atlantic 5.0 Lead and Senior Executive for Net-Centric Devel-opment and Integration. Crall was in Charleston to speak at the Charleston Defense Contractors Association (CDCA) C5ISR Summit. During the SSC Atlantic visit Crall discussed the implications of the Marine Corps’ C2 strategy and SSC Atlantic’s role.

While at the center the general was also briefed by SSC Atlantic scientists about cloud capability, Innovation Cell enabling capabilities, penetration testing capabilities and a C2 strategy for network convergence.


Visitors


Fritzemeiertours centerfacilitiesRear Adm. Ronald R. Frit-zemeier, SPAWARSYSCOM Chief Engineer, listens dur-ing a Platform and Integra-tion lab tour, right, and at the Digital Integration Facility (DIF), below, during a Dec. 15 visit to SSC Atlantic. Ac-companied by Brian Marsh, SPAWARSYSCOM Assistant Chief Engineer, Certification & Mission Assurance, Fritze-meier was in Charleston for the SPAWAR 5.0 offsite Dec. 14, and received briefs and tours of SSC Atlantic facilities the next day. In addition to the DIF, where Fitzemeier saw the Victory System Integration Lab (SIL) and a 3D Modeling and System Engineering Demo, he also saw Consolidated Afloat Networks Enterprise Services (CANES) work and

the Platform and Integration Lab in Bldgs. 1648 and 1602. He also viewed integration operations in Bldg. 1648 and toured areas of Bldg. 3113. Fritzemeier also gave a 5.0 Leadership Brief in the CBT.


The Final Word

What’s happening in your world that you’d like to see in The Chronicle? The power of your experiences is even greater when you take the time to share them! We look forward to reading about the great work you are doing as part of the SSC Atlantic team.

If you have a story or story idea that you’d like to see published here, send it to [email protected] or call the editor anytime at (843) 218-4973, DSN 588-4973.

The Chronicle is ac-cessible on the Internet on SPAWAR’s official U.S. Navy website at http://www.

Check out The Chronicle online; send in your storypublic.navy.mil/spawar/Atlantic/Press/Pages/default.aspx. Check out The Chronicle on the Intranet at https://blog.spawar.navy.mil/chronicle/.

Check out SSC Atlantic news on Facebook, Twitter, Flickr and YouTube. If you wish to become a SPAWAR

Facebook fan, visit http://www.face-book.com/spaceandnavalwar-

faresystemscommand. See us on Twitter http://twitter.com/

SPAWARHQ, You Tube www.youtube.com/teamspawar and Flickr www. flickr.com/

teamspawar.

With a little help from SSC Atlantic volunteers, students at North Charleston’s Palmetto Scholars Academy (PSA) talked live with Astronaut Shane Kimbrough on the Inter-national Space Station (ISS) Feb. 10.

Using some ham radio equipment from Shann Ladiser and technical guidance from Ladiser and Tom Glaab, the students connected with ISS Expedition 50 Commander Kimbrough, who answered all 21 of their questions.

Kimbrough spoke to the kids for 9 minutes as the ISS moved on an orbit that brought them northeast over the Pacific Ocean, Panama Canal and Charleston. He answered questions ranging from his opinion on civilian space travel to the possibility of cultivating watermelons on the space station.

PSA has a Ham Radio Club and their own vanity call sign, K4PSA. Since the club’s inception in 2015, six PSA students have earned their ham radio licenses. They were student liaisons and leaders for this ham radio contact.

The Amateur Radio on the International Space Station (ARISS) lets students worldwide experience the excitement of talking directly with ISS crew members, inspiring them to pursue interests in STEM careers and engaging them with radio science technology through amateur radio.

PSA students also participate in VEX Robotics, VEX IQ Robotics, FIRST Robotics Competition, Lowcountry Sci-ence Fair, Odyssey of the Mind and the Student Spaceflight Experiments Program (SSEP).

SSC Atlantic volunteers help kids communicatewith orbiting astronaut


NASA photos


We are now soliciting submissions from SSC Atlantic employees for next issue’s contest.

Send your best shot to [email protected] or [email protected].

Hit us with your best shot

And the winner is...

The Chronicle Photo ContestThank you to all who submitted!


Cedrick Collins, a computer scientist in 54350, learns about other programs and open demand signals in SSC Atlantic’s Technical Growth Areas at an April 4 Job Fair in the conference center.

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