Experience

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  Department of Defense CIO C3

  • Pentagon, Washington DC

  • Deputy Director of PNT

    • Apr 2022 - Present
    • Pentagon, Washington DC

    Dr. Sonya McMullen currently serves as the DoD CIO Deputy Director of PNT. Her duties include progressing Departmental PNT policy initiatives for the provision and protection of PNT to forces in the field and to insure that DoD-provided PNT services for the general public and professional staff oversight to support PNT modernization in the Department.

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  T2S Solutions, LLC

  • Belcamp, MD

  • Senior Systems Engineer

    • Jun 2019 - Apr 2022
    • Belcamp, MD

    Current senior engineering joint service operational and lethality test and evaluation, systems integration, and production development experience (3 years) in position, navigation, and timing (PNT) across space, air, and land sensors and systems. Expert in PNT solutions for electronic protection (EP), support (ES), attack (EA) systems and competencies to include M-code and software defined radio (SDR) solutions. • Test engineering expertise and responsibilities for laboratory, anechoic chamber, and live sky (open air) tests. Multiple tests conducted.• Lead engineer and test lead for integration of new M-code Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) Trinity (TNT) sensor variant and Joint Navigation Warfare Center (JNWC)/AFRL developed Agile Meridian sensors on U.S. Army Special Operations Command MQ-1C ER Gray Eagle aircraft (UAS). Tested M-code TNT variant to enhance situational awareness, survivability, and performance in a challenged Global Satellite Navigation Systems (GNSS) environment. • Successful integration and testing of the Military GPS User Equipment (MGUE/M-code) resulting in a “first time” fielded operational system to enhance sensor performance in a challenged GNSS environment.• Expertise includes M-code integration with U.S. Army’s C5ISR Versatile Radio Observation & Direction (VROD), aviation and land forces VROD Modular Adaptive Transmitter (VMAX) manpack mobile sensor system technology, AFRL Trinity (TNT), and Agile Meridian GNSS situational awareness sensors. • Project and engineering lead for all-in-one (EP/ES/EA) navigation warfare (NAVWAR) pod for the MQ-1C Gray Eagle unmanned aerial aircraft. Designed as a self-contained, modular, low-power capability for multiple platform employment. • Data fusion expert to the Joint Navigation Warfare Center (JNWC) relating to C5ISR visualization and sensor data fusion tools and upcoming sensor systems for integration into DoD and U.S. Army tools such as FADE/MIST, GOAT, COGNOS, EWPMT, RaptorX.

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  The Pennsylvania State University (PSU), College of Information Sciences and Technology (IST)

  • World Campus

  • Adjunct Lecturer

    • May 2015 - Aug 2019
    • World Campus

    Adjunct Graduate Lecturer for a world-renowned state university recognized by US News and World Report as a top Online Degree-granting institution and provider of education to Veterans. Courses taught include Foundations of Information Security and Assurance; Crisis, Disaster and Risk Management, and Introduction to Multisensor Data Fusion. Co-author of the textbook used for Data Fusion course and co-author of Emergency Management paper presented at the SAI Intelligent Systems Conference in London 2016. Provided key guidance and input relating to Canvas migration and best practices based on previous experiences using learning management system.

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  Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Worldwide

  • Multiple

  • Assistant Professor, College of Aeronautics; Adjunct Professor; Director of Academics; Other

    • Aug 2004 - May 2019
    • Multiple

    Data fusion and space-systems focused researcher and professor with fifteen-years’ experience as an instructor undergraduate and graduate level courses in the field of spacecraft and aircraft design, space operations and policy, human factors, statistics, research methodology, safety, and aviation legislation. Taught over 125 courses. Provided instruction in the classroom and virtual (non-traditional, synchronous, and asynchronous) environments. o Awarded two research grants (combined $35,000) to fund a virtual sensor lab initial and proof of principle to characterize sensors on small unmanned aerial systems to detect threats to first responders at aircraft crash sites. Key contributor to internal research grant awarded to team to explore the use of small drones to detect chemical contaminates and foreign object debris on runway surfaces in an effort to reduce operational downtime and enhance safety. o Appointed by the Dean of the College of Aeronautics to serve on the College Research Grants Team as part of an initiative to support all faculty in seeking internal and external financial sponsorship and bring in additional research funding to the College.o Served as Assistant Program Chair of the Bachelor of Science in Aviation Security.o Served as advisor to the College of Aeronautics Dean for all matters relating to Space Curriculum and community outreach, to include space systems research initiatives. o Nominated by colleagues from the College of Aeronautics and College of Business to serve as the Interim Secretary of the Worldwide Faculty Senate in 2016 and Secretary for the 2017 term. Served as ERAU Worldwide Faculty Senate Secretary through the 2018 term. Provided issue papers and Faculty Senate minutes and correspondence to the Chancellor.o Key contributor to analysis for Aircraft Cyber Security and Information Exchange Safety Analysis for Department of Commerce study.

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  Tech Reach Inc.

  • Co-Owner

    • Sep 2005 - Apr 2012

    Seven-years’ experience leading a small consulting and training company specializing in multisensor data fusion systems, computer-based training systems, and disaster planning and support for other companies and organizations. o Technical and operational knowledge -- Deliverables include training and support products and computer-based training modules for multisensor data fusion. o Application of theory, concepts, and qualitative, quantitative methods:• Created a test and evaluation methodology and plan for incorporation into a Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) proposal for the ULTRA-Vis contract.• Developed the required experiments to provide insight into what characteristics of interactive visualizations were most likely to aid the military user in determining and predicting the types of change happening within a network, given various influence factors.o Test and data analysis reporting -- Contributed to North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) IST-059 and IST-085 IST-059/Research Technology Group (RTG) a report highlighting interactive visualization methods that facilitate and make more effective the analysis of network dynamics in applications such as net-centric warfare, counterterrorism including bioterrorism, peacekeeping, public security, and peace support operations. o Negotiating to implement recommendations -- Data Fusion, human factors, and military operations subject matter expert representative to the NATO IST-059 and IST-085 Visualization of Network Dynamics research study groups. Served as Co-Chair and Local Host for the NATO IST-085 Interactive Visualization of Network Dynamics fall 2009 workshop and meeting at The Pennsylvania State University.

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  U.S. Air Force, 2d Bomb Wing

  • Chief, Training and Acting Command Post Deputy Chief

    • May 2003 - Sep 2005

    Two-years’ experience as a nuclear command and control (C2) and space-based communications systems expert, project manager, curriculum developer, and instructor. Solely responsible for developing/maintaining more than 6,000 aircrew Emergency Action Procedures (EAP) documents and training for 260+ B-52H combat crew members for the wing’s U.S. Strategic Command (USSTRATCOM) wartime mission. o Created training plans, evaluations, exercise scenarios, and traveling recurring training for deployed crews to test aircrew and command post (CP) controllers on USSTRATCOM Command and Control (C2) proficiency. Aircrews scored 98% or better on three demanding Nuclear Surety and Nuclear Operation Readiness Inspection examinations administered by higher headquarters personnel. Training team named “Superior Performance Team” in 2005 and earned three consecutive Air Combat Command Inspector General Superior Performer Awards.o Developed a deployable nuclear C2 training and testing package to ensure aircrew proficiency and maintain nuclear certification while deployed, reducing reconstitution time.o Transformed a troubled training branch with major write-ups from previous inspections to “best EAP training program seen to date” in 2005. o Wing Representative for Joint Chiefs of Staff (JSC)-level nuclear C2 communications connectivity testing and evaluation program. Analyzed and reported results to JCS.o Executive agent for the 2d Bomb Wing Commander on all aspects of nuclear command and control (C2), strategic space and airborne communications connectivity and testing, and support of Emergency War Order (EWO) and conventional taskings. Considered only one of two Emergency Action Procedures (EAP) experts on the installation.o 2d Bomb Wing Representative to Air Combat Command Nuclear C2 Conference to guide the implementation of Emergency Action Message revisions and evaluations. o Served as Deputy Chief of the Wing Command Post and as a representative to the Battlestaff.

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  National Security Agency

  • Deputy Director Collection Systems Evaluation Task Force, Branch Chief Weapons System Element

    • Oct 2001 - May 2003

    Two-years engineering experience as Deputy Director of a multi-national, joint service task force responsible for operational testing of national and tactical sensors to detect, characterize, and geolocate signals of interest. One-year experience leading the Weapons Systems Element of a Technical Signals Intelligence (SIGINT) Exploitation Division.o Served as Deputy Signals National Intelligence Officer (SINIO) for Weapons and Space. Formally represented NSA at National Intelligence Council, Department of Defense and IC conferences that included representatives from the Director of Central Intelligence, CIA, DIA, DoD, State Dept, Dept of Energy (DoE), Dept of the Treasury, and FBI. o Sole U.S. representative to US/UK GPS joint test resulting in flawless evaluation of national space-based SIGINT collection assets. Coordinated aircraft, multi-agency GPS test in 2 weeks to validate RC-135U aircraft capability, SpecOps Forces equipment, and new protection tech. o Spearheaded B-52H inclusion in testing to evaluate effects, enhance tactics. Resulted in the overhaul of asset tasking, improved battlespace SA.o Prepared NSA position for inclusion in IC National Intelligence Estimates and National Intel memoranda on foreign weapons, space systems, and threats. Represented end-user/warfighter interests in Weapons and Space evaluations.o Advocated a plan to address GPS jammers in theatre. Formed a multiagency, multi-national team to develop intel and conduct testing. Secured funding for CONOP. Team awarded the National Security Agency Deputy Director of Analysis & Production Team Award.o First choice to brief Assistant SecDef on Policy regarding threats to GPS and SIGINT collection capabilities.o Hand-picked to represent NSA on U.S. delegation to multi-national Navigation Warfare caucus. Drafted 5-year Electronic Support plan to leverage partner nation expertise.o Secured $5M in logistics, personnel support for FY03 having briefed the NRO Director for SIGINT.

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  U.S. Air Force, 742d Missile Squadron

  • Flight Commander, Missile Combat Crew Commander

    • Jun 1999 - Aug 2001

    One-year operations management experience leading flight of 30 missile combat crew members, facility managers, and chefs (officer and enlisted personnel). o Combat crew instructor responsible for training of flight in all facets of Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) operations. Produced inspection preparation training plans; lesson plans; remedial training programs and products; and first ever combined missile combat crew, security forces, facility manager, and chef training scenario to more accurately evaluate the response of the team to an emergency situation. Regarded as “world-class instructor” by superiors as all 19 crews trained received top ratings on proficiency evaluations. o Commanded #1 flight in the squadron based solely on proficiency indicators and earned “Flight of the Quarter” for two consecutive quarters. o Assistant Chief of 91st Operations Group Commander’s Contingency Support Team to orchestrate Headquarters building Threat Condition Responses. Earned Air Force Space Command (AFSPC) Inspector General’s “Professional Team”. o Appointed to replace a fired flight commander. Led the unit to “most proficient” honors. Project manager and developer of comprehensive Nuclear Surety Inspection preparation training materials for combat crews. o Responsible for maintenance and upkeep of two $13M missile alert facilities. o While on nuclear alert at the alternate command post, responsible to the national command authority and USTRATCOM for the offensive space force application of 50 nuclear missiles, monitored 100 additional Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles, directed 15 missile crews and oversaw $3.3B in weapon system assets.o Advised squadron commander on nuclear combat readiness issues, including crew member readiness for upgrade to commander or other promotion opportunities.o Selected from over 180 Company Grade Officers to serve as one of four 91st Space Wing Space Support Team positions in support of AFSPC exercise planning.

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  U.S. Air Force, 91st Operations Group

  • Deputy Missile Combat Crew Evaluator

    • Aug 1998 - Jun 1999

    One-year evaluator experience, directly responsible to the Commander, 91st Operations Group, for the performance assessment of 75 missile combat crew members. o Technical and operational knowledge -- Evaluated crews in the missile procedures trainer (simulator environment) and in the operational alert environment to validate wing training program and ensure mission capability of combat crews. Evaluation process validated training program and provided critical data to instructors to correct identified deficiencies. o Qualitative and quantitative test planning, data collection, analysis, and test reporting -- Project manager responsible for 91st Space Wing communications survivability testing and evaluation program. Developed new crew procedures for U.S. Strategic Command’s (USSTRATCOM) communication connectivity (survivability) test program improving reception rate by 60%. Test results reported to U.S. Strategic Command and Joint Chiefs of Staff. o Satellite communications proposal, survivability testing, and reporting – Authored white paper on behalf of 91st Space Wing Commander to 20th Air Force Director of Operations to revise U.S. Strategic Command communications testing program to ensure connectivity across range of frequencies.o Subject matter expert and complex issue advisor -- Advised the Chief, Standards and Evaluation Division on unit operations, crew member proficiency, and operational effectiveness (implementation of recommendations based on test and evaluation results).

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  U.S. Air Force, 742d Missile Squadron

  • Deputy Missile Crew Commander

    • Aug 1997 - Aug 1998

    One-year experience as a deputy combat crew commander responsible for controlling on-alert operational Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles and an operational Launch Control Center as critical components of national strategic deterrence. o Analyze technical and operational problems -- Shares responsibility for day-to-day management of personnel, equipment, safety, and security of a multimillion-dollar complex. Provides backup capability for command of the wing in emergency and wartime environments. o Subject matter expert:• Superior operator having earned Air Force Space Command’s highest rating, “Highly Qualified” on proficiency evaluation and flawless execution during worldwide Joint Chiefs of Staff Communications Exercise (survivability and lethality testing).• Represented the 742nd Missile Squadron in the 91st Space Wing “Top of the Line” competition and earned “blue ribbon” in weapon system proficiency and combined competition top score.• Flawless back-to-back error-free performances on local no-notice wing exercise evaluations.

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  U.S. Air Force, 2d Space Launch Squadron

  • Delta II Training Officer

    • Jul 1996 - Jan 1997

    Half-year experience in space launch systems. Developed and edited course objectives, lesson plans, study guides, test bank, lecture presentations, and simulation scenario scripts for the West Coast Delta II Mission Ready Training Program as well as provided support to the air-launched Pegasus small space launch system mission. o Analysis of technical and operational problems and implementation of recommended strategy: Developed training course used to provide initial Mission Ready Qualification for Delta II Booster Operations Specialists, Payload Specialists, Launch Controllers, and Launch Director. Training program earned "Best in Operations Group" and "Highly Qualified" during higher headquarters inspection. Training team earned Inspector General "Professional Team" honors. o Developed new testing and evaluation methods: Participated in the development and execution of Delta II launch countdown scenarios, a key component in the squadron attaining mission-ready status.

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  Penn State University

  • Student/Engineering Intern

    • 1991 - 1996