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David Spirk on DoD’s Data Strategy, Joint All Domain C2 Concept
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David Spirk on DoD’s Data Strategy, Joint All Domain C2 Concept

David Spirk, chief data officer at the Department of Defense (DoD), said DoD developed its data strategy with the Joint All Domain Command and Control (JADC2) concept in mind, Federal News Network reported Friday. 

He said the department’s cross-functional team responsible for developing JADC2 has adopted the goals of the data strategy. The Pentagon released in October the data strategy that considers data as a strategic asset critical to building and maintaining operational advantage on the battlefield.

“We’ve come to an agreement to bring the JADC2 data interoperability working group into one of our working groups under the DoD CDO Council,” he said. “When you lay the data strategy out and you really go to the principles inside of it, it’s about creating operational advantage and efficiencies. The operational advantage puts JADC2 right at the heart of the data strategy, and it was designed to be that way."

Spirk said the Pentagon’s view of data has transformed from an “outside-in” to an “inside-out” mindset.

“When we talk about inside-out, we’re really talking about putting the warfighter and senior leader who needs to make a better decision at the center of everything, and ensuring that the data can flow. The requirements flow from them to the portions of the machine that need to make their data available so it can be pulled back to the center, be aggregated, be analyzed, and render decisions in a faster manner at the speed of mission,” he said.

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NSA Releases Guidance on Cloud Security Against Authentication Breaches
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NSA Releases Guidance on Cloud Security Against Authentication Breaches

The National Security Agency (NSA) has published new guidance on how to address cyber threats that tamper with authentication systems to illegally access cloud-based data. 

NSA said Thursday that its recent advisory, titled “Detecting Abuse of Authentication Mechanisms,” references state-sponsored cyber actors who forged credentials and exploited vulnerabilities to obtain unauthorized access.

The advisory tackles two types of tactics, techniques and procedures or TTPs that can breach through security systems via vulnerability exploitation. The first TTP focuses on manipulating an authentication system's on-premise components, and the second one exploits a global administrator account linked to the targeted system. 

The agency advises organizations to fortify and monitor on-premise federated and identity systems for signs of breaching. The full advisory can be found here.

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DHS, RTI International, NYSTEC Ink Partnership Intermediary Agreements
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DHS, RTI International, NYSTEC Ink Partnership Intermediary Agreements

The Department of Homeland Security's science and technology (DHS S&T) directorate has signed partnership intermediary agreements with nonprofit organizations RTI International and New York State Technology Enterprise Corp. 

RTI will cover the southeast region of the U.S. and help S&T seek potential partners that could license and commercialize technologies funded by DHS, the department said Thursday.

The organization will also assess DHS' innovation ecosystem, validate growth practices, host events and train researchers and entrepreneurs to help them determine and pitch proposals to investors.

As a partnership intermediate, NYSTEC will handle the northeast region of the U.S., validate new technologies, carry out industry outreach efforts and support the department's start-up development activities.

Partnership intermediaries work to provide counsel and support to educational institutions and small businesses. RTI offers bidirectional transfer of knowledge, resources, and technologies while NYSTEC performs technical support work for technology programs.

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NASA’s Reid Wiseman to Lead Agency’s Astronaut Office; Steve Koerner Quoted
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NASA’s Reid Wiseman to Lead Agency’s Astronaut Office; Steve Koerner Quoted

Reid Wiseman, a NASA astronaut, will succeed Pat Forrester to lead the space agency's Astronaut Office. Wiseman will help NASA oversee resources and operations at the Astronaut Office that operates from Johnson Space Center, the space agency said Friday. 

His new responsibility also includes the development of concepts and assignments for astronaut missions. The former U.S. Navy captain went to space in 2014 for astronaut work at the International Space Station, having supported preparations for NASA commercial crew missions.

“Reid’s energy and enthusiasm for space exploration are matched only by his thoughtfulness and commitment to his fellow astronauts,” said Steve Koerner, director of flight operations at NASA.

He also contributed leadership work to the Astronaut Office as deputy chief astronaut and other various roles. 

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AECOM Promotes Richard Barrett as Regional Chief Executive of ANZ Region; Lara Poloni Quoted
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AECOM Promotes Richard Barrett as Regional Chief Executive of ANZ Region; Lara Poloni Quoted

AECOM has promoted Richard Barrett as regional chief executive for the Australia New Zealand (ANZ) region, the company reported on Thursday. Barrett has served as the ANZ chief operating officer for the past six years. With AECOM, Barrett has led revenue growth, improved client service and project delivery and increased employee engagement.

Barrett will succeed Todd Battley, who will join AECOM’s global executive team as chief strategy officer. In his new role, Battley will be responsible for ensuring AECOM clients get the best experience. “I’m delighted to take on this new role at a time when there is so much change and opportunity in our market,” Battley said.

“Over the past nine months, we’ve successfully navigated the ANZ business through the COVID-19 pandemic… I’d personally like to thank Todd for his leadership over the last three years and wish him well in his new global role,” Barrett said.

In his new role, Barrett leads a team of 3,500 designers, engineers, planners, scientists and project managers in 18 offices across the region. He is responsible for AECOM’s ANZ operations and the implementation of its regional strategy. He is also a member of AECOM’s Global Executive Leadership Team.

As chief operating officer, Barrett was responsible for all operations, including key strategic priorities and enhancing delivery capabilities for AECOM’s service offerings throughout the ANZ region.

“Their client service mantra and collaborative approach to leadership have helped them manage through the ups and downs of economic uncertainty while driving a digital transformation agenda and creating a more flexible and diverse workforce,” said Lara Poloni, AECOM’s president, in regards to Barrett and Battley’s service with the company.

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New Strategy Outlines Navy, USMC, USCG Sea Security Plan; Adm. Michael Gilday Quoted
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New Strategy Outlines Navy, USMC, USCG Sea Security Plan; Adm. Michael Gilday Quoted

The U.S. government's three maritime-focused armed services have developed and released a strategy that outlines how they plan to integrate, collaborate and modernize toward the future.

The “Advantage at Sea” tri-service maritime strategy tackles the U.S. Navy, U.S. Marine Corps and U.S. Coast Guard's joint approach to protect international seas from Russia and China over the next 10 years, the Navy said Thursday.

The military document also describes the maritime domain as an asset that enables global trade, connects businesses, offers resources and therefore benefits all countries across the globe.

"Our forces must be ready today, and ready tomorrow, to defend our nation’s interests against potential adversaries at any time," said Adm. Michael Gilday, chief of naval operations.

The plan will have the three services work with joint partners and foreign allies to establish a more unified and interoperability-driven approach to maritime security.

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Parsons, NJ TRANSIT Deploy PTC System to Increase Transit Safety; Chuck Harrington Quoted
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Parsons, NJ TRANSIT Deploy PTC System to Increase Transit Safety; Chuck Harrington Quoted

Parsons has announced that NJ TRANSIT (NJT) has completed the final deployment of its Positive Train Control (PTC) system, which will increase the safety of rail transit, Parsons reported on Friday. 

"Achieving this critical milestone was made possible by the combined collaboration, innovation, and determination of NJ TRANSIT, Federal Railroad Administration, Parsons and Alstom. The team worked tirelessly through a global pandemic to ensure the safety of New Jersey's rail network," said Chuck Harrington, chairman and CEO of Parsons and 2020 Wash100 Award recipient.

Parsons developed and implemented a custom PTC solution in partnership with NJT. The solution will follow the Federal Railroad Administration guidelines, while maximizing the region's existing rail infrastructure. This marks the first time NJT has implemented PTC.

Parsons has completed implementation and entered Extended Revenue Service Demonstration on NJT’s territory, as well as the Conrail line. The company collaborated with numerous stakeholders, including Amtrak, Conrail and Norfolk Southern to ensure system interoperability.

"We look forward to continuing our partnership with NJ TRANSIT to leverage the data from PTC to further optimize rail operations and deliver innovative rail technology that empowers the state's existing infrastructure to build a safer, smarter and more connected world," Harrington added. 

About Parsons

Parsons (NYSE: PSN) is a leading disruptive technology provider in the global defense, intelligence, and critical infrastructure markets, with capabilities across cybersecurity, missile defense, space, connected infrastructure, and smart cities.

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KBR Announces Energy, Sustainability Efforts; Stuart Bradie Quoted
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KBR Announces Energy, Sustainability Efforts; Stuart Bradie Quoted

KBR has published its 2019 Sustainability & Corporate Responsibility Report and announced a new sustainability agenda, the company reported on Friday. KBR will implement a plan to incorporate corporate environmental, social and governance (ESG) strategy, policies, procedures and management approaches that will support positive environmental and social impact.

“To ensure ESG remains a top priority for our leadership team and our organization, we are linking achievement of ESG objectives to our executive compensation beginning in 2021. We are confident this will further support our efforts to make a positive difference in the world,” Stuart Bradie, KBR president and CEO, said.

KBR has achieved carbon neutrality in 2019, increased gender diversity of its board of directors and executive leadership and linked achievement of the company’s ESG goals to executive compensation beginning in 2021. The company is currently developing a strategic climate action plan to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2030.

Additionally, KBR has extended its Zero Harm safety culture to include its sustainability objectives. The campaign included ten key areas within the company where efforts will be focused to accelerate positive social and environmental impact. The efforts have been aligned with the sustainable development goals outlined in the United Nations’ Decade of Action plan.

KBR has also audited its business for projects, initiatives and technologies that promote positive environmental and social impact as part of its work with clients. The audit found more than 60 areas where the company is already increasing energy efficiencies; extending asset life; developing technologies to capture and sequester carbon, and more.

“In 2020, COVID-19 caused seismic shifts in the way we live and work. I’m proud to say that KBR has used this as an opportunity to embrace change, think differently and reimagine how we do business. We have strengthened our commitment to sustainable development, to do Zero Harm to People and Planet, and to build a prosperous, purpose-led business that contributes positively to the world in which we live,” Bradie added.

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Radiance Promotes Kristi Looney to VP, Director of HR; Cindy Santy Quoted
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Radiance Promotes Kristi Looney to VP, Director of HR; Cindy Santy Quoted

Radiance Technologies has promoted Kristi Looney as vice president of Human Resources, the company reported on Friday. She currently supervises the company’s Human Resources Department, focusing on recruiting, benefits, compensation and workforce planning, as director of Human Resources. She will continue to serve as director, following her promotion. 

"Kristi has passion for her work and is dedicated to our employee-owners," said Cindy Santy, Radiance's chief capabilities officer. "She and her team are reshaping our Human Resources approaches to support the company as we grow.”

As vice president and director Human Resources, Looney will continue to support the company’s mission and talent strategy. Looney has nearly two decades of experience within human resources. She joined Radiance in July 2010, as benefits administrator, and has served in roles of increasing responsibility due to her notable leadership skills. 

With Radiance, she has improved processes to ensure a competitive employee compensation and benefit package, and align the company’s human capital for continued company growth and success. 

Prior to joining Radiance, Looney had an 8-year career with Quantum Research International. She served as a human resource representative and retirement plan administrator and was responsible for all aspects of the 401(k) and Pension Plan.

“From processes to purpose, she is helping to transform all aspects of how Radiance builds, rewards, and retains its workforce," Santy added. 

About Radiance Technologies, Inc.

Radiance Technologies is an employee-owned small business prime contractor founded in 1999. Radiance has over 800 employee-owners across the United States serving the Department of Defense, national intelligence community and other government agencies. 

From concepts to capabilities, Radiance leads the way in developing customer-focused solutions in the areas of cyber security, systems engineering, prototyping and integration as well as operational and strategic intelligence including scientific and technical intelligence.

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Northrop Grumman, NASA Complete Last Sunshield Deployment Test for James Webb Space Telescope
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Northrop Grumman, NASA Complete Last Sunshield Deployment Test for James Webb Space Telescope

Northrop Grumman Corporation and NASA have successfully completed the final sunshield deployment test on the James Webb Space Telescope, the company reported on Friday. The successful test will prepare the telescope for launch in 2021.

“The success of this important milestone demonstrates the rigor and dedication of the Northrop Grumman and NASA team,” said Scott Willoughby, vice president and program manager, James Webb Space Telescope, Northrop Grumman. “The sunshield is designed to deploy in space and that is exactly what we validated during this final round of testing.”

The James Webb Space Telescope’s sunshield will offer protection from light and heat emitted from the sun, Earth, and moon, as well as the observatory. The sunshield maintains Webb’s scientific instruments in a deep cold, approximately negative 388 degrees Fahrenheit.

To fully deploy Webb’s sunshield, the Northrop-NASA team will activate the telescope’s components and complete a series of commands to begin the release of devices, which will release the sunshield’s five layers. 

Following the release of several more cable restraint devices, a coordinated series of individual motor movements are completed, which will then deploy and tension each sunshield layer. Then, the sunshield will open into a diamond-shaped form through a system of pulleys and springs.

Northrop Grumman will work to complete the next series of development, including completing the final wing deployments of the primary mirror to verify flight worthiness, followed by a final and complete full systems evaluation before shipping to the launch site.

Northrop Grumman leads the industry team for NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope. NASA leads an international partnership that includes the European Space Agency and the Canadian Space Agency. Goddard Space Flight Center manages the Webb Telescope project. The Space Telescope Science Institute is responsible for science and mission operations and ground station development.

About Northrop Grumman

Northrop Grumman solves the toughest problems in space, aeronautics, defense and cyberspace to meet the ever evolving needs of our customers worldwide. Our 90,000 employees define possible every day using science, technology and engineering to create and deliver advanced systems, products and services.

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