Dr. Asma Abuzaakouk
The MITRE Corporation
Trending Topics Track: Placing a Value on Employee Well-Being (TT02)
Dr. Abuzaakouk is a Principal (Human and Organizational Systems) for The MITRE Corporation’s Enterprise Strategy and Transformation Innovation Center. She is an inclusive, innovative, and strategic leader who applies data driven approaches to transformational change.
Jennifer Aguirre
Quantech Services, Inc.
Technical Innovations Track: Ticking Time Bomb of Telework: Communication and Time Management (TI01)
Jennifer Aguirre is a senior cost analyst for Quantech Services with 4.5 years of DoD cost analysis experience supporting a variety of Agile DevOps / information system programs within the Air Force. She has also acted as a lead trainer and mentor for the Quantech Junior Analyst Training program for the past 3.5 years. Jennifer has a Bachelor’s of Business Administration in Economics from the University of Georgia.
Omar Akbik
Technomics, Inc.
Technical Innovations Track: VEGA: Shining Light on the Battles of Data Collection and Management (TI08)
Omar Akbik is the Associate Director of the Data Analytics and Technology Solutions practice area of Technomics. He is responsible for developing innovative tools and techniques for use economic analysis and strategic decision making by his clients and partner organizations. He has experience supporting a wide range of offices and programs throughout the defense and civilian federal space. Omar is a Certified Cost Estimator/Analyst, a PMI-Agile Certified Practitioner, and holds degrees in economics and finance.
Timothy P. Anderson
The Aerospace Corporation
Analytical Methods Track: Accuracy, Precision and Uncertainty in Cost Estimates (AM02)
Mr. Anderson, of The Aerospace Corporation, is a professional cost analyst with over 28 years’ experience in cost analysis, cost uncertainty analysis, and operations research, involving national security and civil space systems. In addition, Mr. Anderson is a member of the faculty of the Naval Postgraduate School, teaching courses in cost analysis and operations research. He is also an active member of ICEAA, a certified cost estimator/analyst (CCE/A) and elected regional director.
Henry Apgar
Apgar Consulting
Analytical Methods Track: Design to Cost: What it is and Why You Should Care (AM01)
Henry (Hank) Apgar is a retired cost engineer. He has worked for MCR and The Aerospace Corporation. He has more than 50 years’ experience developing parametric models and statistically-based parametric cost estimates. Hank is a lifetime ICEAA member and a Certified Cost Estimator/Analyst (CCEA), with a degree in electrical engineering and an MBA. He authored the Cost Estimating Chapter for the Space Mission Engineering Handbook. He is co-founder and past president of ISPA and recipient of their lifetime achievement Freiman Award.
Annie Bagay
Quantech Services, Inc.
Technical Innovations Track: Ticking Time Bomb of Telework: Communication and Time Management (TI01)
Annie Bagay is a senior cost analyst for Quantech Services with 5.5 years of DoD cost analysis experience currently supporting ground based radars and space systems within the Space Force. She also works as the Training Program Coordinator for the Quantech Junior Analyst Training that provides new analysts with core technical and soft skills to be successful in the cost world. She has a Bachelor’s of Science in Mathematics from the University of the South.
George Bayer
Cobec Consulting, Inc.
Processes & Best Practices Track: Shortfall Analysis – Creative Approaches to Problem Quantification (PB01)
George Bayer, a Senior Director at Cobec Consulting, manages cost/benefit, supply chain, and investment analyses for major capital investments at the FAA. Prior to the FAA, he led economic analyses and DCF valuations for Power Generation at BP and ConocoPhillips and financial management at Disney. Mr. Bayer has a PMP certification, a BSBA in Finance and English from the University of Florida, and an MBA from the University of Texas at Austin in Corporate Finance.
Geoffrey P. Boals
Government
Data Science Track: Follow the Money in Government Estimates (DS01)
Mr. Boals is a CCEA with 15 years’ experience as federal contractor or civilian, and holds DAU FM, CE Level 3 and has the DOD FM level 3 certification. Currently he works for OSD CDAO as a cost analyst and assists with budget analyst duties. He has a BE in Naval Architecture from SUNY Maritime College, MS in Information Technology and Cybersecurity Policy from University of Maryland University College.
Alex Bonich
Technomics, Inc.
Processes & Best Practices Track: You’ve Invested, Now Sustain it: Insights into the Sustainment Review Process (PB02)
Alex Bonich is a Senior Associate who joined Technomics in February 2021. He currently supports the Army in cost estimating and analysis for Transportations Systems and the Robotic Combat Vehicle program, and has experience supporting the Army in the development of Life Cycle Cost Estimates across various vehicle programs. Alex graduated from the University of Michigan in 2019 with a B.S.E. in Mechanical Engineering.
Peter Braxton
Technomics, Inc.
Analytical Methods Track: Innovative Risk-Driven Contract Pricing Strategy (AM03)
Trending Topics Track: Hilbert’s Problems III: The Post-Pandemic Cost Community (TT01)
Peter Braxton is a Subject Matter Expert and Employee Owner at Technomics, Inc. He has over 20 years of experience performing cost and risk analysis and delivering associated training for a broad spectrum of federal government clients. The inaugural VP for Professional Development and a multiple ICEAA Educator of the Year winner, he has shown a long-standing commitment to knowledge sharing within the community. He holds an AB in Mathematics from Princeton and an MS in Operations Research from the College of William and Mary. He is a semi-retired game show contestant and avid cruciverbalist.
David H. Brown
Technomics, Inc.
Software & Agile Track: NLP: A New Approach to SFP Estimation (SA01)
CEBoK-S Training Track: Lesson 4: Estimating Custom Software Development (CEBoK04)
CEBoK-S Training Track: Lesson Y: Productivity (CEBoKY)
Mr. Dave Brown is a CCEA certified Subject Matter Expert for Technomics, Inc. He has 30 years of experience providing cost estimating and analysis to DoD and DHS clients. His primary area of expertise is in the area of IT and software estimating, with products such as life cycle cost analysis, applied cost estimating, independent cost assessment, cost research, program management support, modeling and simulation, data analysis, and database development.
Kevin Buck
The MITRE Corporation
Trending Topics Track: Placing a Value on Employee Well-Being (TT02)
Kevin Buck is a Principal (Applied Economics) for The MITRE Corporation’s Cost, Acquisition, & Management Sciences Innovation Center. He is a veteran and prior commercial industry executive, he applies business strategy and financial acumen to increase government ROI. An LGBTQ domestic violence survivor and an Industrial/Organizational Psychology PhD candidate, his avocation is to create and apply Social ROI principles and models to monetize inclusion, diversity, and social justice impacts.
Erik Burgess
Burgess Consulting, Inc.
Modeling & Case Studies Track: Budget Execution and Margin Simulation (BEAMS) (MC01)
Erik Burgess has provided cost estimating and engineering support to U.S defense, intelligence, and civil space programs since 1991. His current responsibilities supporting the ODNI Cost and Acquisition Assessments Group include leading cost research efforts and developing independent cost estimates for space programs. Erik founded Burgess Consulting in 2004 and has also served with The Aerospace Corporation, PriceWaterhouseCoopers, and MCR, LLC. Mr. Burgess earned his M.S. and B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
Shannon Cardoza
Quantech Services, Inc.
Technical Innovations Track: Ticking Time Bomb of Telework: Communication and Time Management (TI01)
Shannon Cardoza is a cost analyst for Quantech Services supporting ground based radars and space systems within the Space Force. She has 2.5 years of DoD cost and data analysis experience with an emphasis on agile software development and hardware systems sustainment in addition to acting as a training lead on a variety of technical and non-technical topics. She has a Bachelor’s of Science in Mathematics from California Polytechnic State University – San Luis Obispo.
Brian Carroll
Cobec Consulting, Inc.
Processes & Best Practices Track: Shortfall Analysis – Creative Approaches to Problem Quantification (PB01)
Brian Carroll, an Associate Consultant at Cobec Consulting, conducts cost/benefit analyses for major FAA capital investments. For recent FAA acquisitions, he developed innovative quantitative analyses, value stream process mapping to realize process improvements, and stakeholder benefit quantification. He is also a major contributor to the agency’s supply chain integration projects and data-driven decision-making strategic objectives. He has a BA in Mathematics from Kean University.
Kevin Cincotta
The MITRE Corporation
CEBoK-S Training Track: Lesson 0: Overview & Curriculum (CEBoK00)
CEBoK-S Training Track: Lesson 4: Estimating Custom Software Development (CEBoK04)
CEBoK-S Training Track: Lesson Y: Productivity (CEBoKY)
As a Principal Cost Analyst with The MITRE Corporation, Mr. Cincotta provides technical leadership for MITRE’s Center for National Security, supporting the Departments of Defense and Homeland Security. He is the co-lead of MITRE’s Cost Analysis Community of Practice and current ICEAA Certification Principal. He is the lead reviewer of ICEAA’s CEBoK-S and an ICEAA Cost Estimator of the Year. He holds a BA in Economics and Philosophy from the University of Virginia, and an MS in the same fields from the London School of Economics and Political Science.
Patrick Casey
Quantech Services, Inc.
IT & Cloud Computing Track: Comparing the Cost of Cloud Services: AWS vs Azure (IT05)
A passion for learning and teaching mathematics made Cost Analysis a perfect fit for Patrick Casey at Quantech Services. He currently has 3 years of DoD experience supporting aircraft modifications and cloud transformation efforts. Patrick currently has certifications as an AWS Cloud Practitioner, SAFe Lean Agilist, and IFPUG Function Point Specialist (CFPS). He holds a B.S. in Mathematics from the University of New Hampshire and was proudly Quantech’s Business Analytics Employee of the Year for 2021.
Christine K. Clay
Tecolote Research, Inc.
Data Science Track: Web Applications for Cost Analysis Use: R Shiny vs Python Plotly Dash (DS04)
Christine Clay, CCEA®, MS, BBA is a data analyst and cost analyst for Tecolote Research, Inc. She currently supports FAA, DHS CISA, and Coast Guard in various data and cost analysis roles. She completed her undergraduate degrees in Economics and Finance, and her graduate degree in Economic Data Analysis at the University of Texas at Arlington. She has held a CCEA® since January of 2022.
Brittany Clayton
The Rand Corporation
Analytical Methods Track: Incorporating Risk into Analysis of Alternatives Results: A Novel Methodology (AM05)
Brittany Clayton is an Operations Researcher at the RAND Corporation. Her professional interests include lifecycle cost estimating and analysis, sensitivity and uncertainty analysis, and acquisition policy research for defense programs. Brittany joined RAND in 2018 after a decade of civil service with the Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA). Brittany holds an M.S. in Operations Research from George Mason University and a B.A. with majors in Mathematics and Spanish from Washington & Jefferson College.
Lisa Colabella
The Rand Corporation
Analytical Methods Track: Design to Cost: What it is and Why You Should Care (AM01)
Dr. Lisa Pelled Colabella is a Senior Operations Researcher at the RAND Corporation, where she leads projects that include cost estimating and analyses. Lisa holds a B.S. in Systems Engineering from the University of Virginia, an M.S. in Operations Research from Stanford University, and a Ph.D. in Industrial Engineering from Stanford University. She is currently serving as Vice President of ICEAA’s Southern California Chapter.
Carol Dekkers
Quality Plus Technologies, Inc.
Processes & Best Practices Track: From Software CONOPS to ROM Estimate in Six Easy Steps (PB04)
CEBoK-S Training Track: Lesson 5: Software Sustainment (CEBoK05)
CEBoK-S Training Track: Lesson X: Software Size (CEBoKX)
Ms. Carol Dekkers is founder of Quality Plus Technologies, Inc. with over 25 years of experience leading initiatives for companies who want to succeed with software measurement. She is a consultant, author and speaker who touts ICEAA conferences among her hundreds of international presentations. In May 2022, Carol was named the ICEAA Educator of the Year for her work as the Lead Author of the ICEAA CEBoK-S, and in October 2022 she was named an honorary fellow of the IFPUG along with Capers Jones. Carol steadfastly supports ICEAA in promoting the profession of cost estimation.
Bryan Eckle
Summit2Sea Consulting
IT & Cloud Computing Track: Cloud-Based Machine Learning in the DoD Environment (IT03)
Bryan Eckle has over two decades of experience with government financial systems. He is the cofounder of Summit2Sea, along with Laurian Eckle. For the past 18 years, they have been working with a variety of customers including the DoD, Department of Energy, IRS, and DARPA, to improve financial systems and
accelerate technology via analytics, AI, and RPA.
Fabian Eilingsfeld
Unison Cost Engineering
Processes & Best Practices Track: Educating Future Cost Engineers in the Space Station Design Workshop (SSDW) (PB03)
Fabian Eilingsfeld is country manager for Unison Cost Engineering in Germany. He holds a PhD in aerospace engineering from TU Berlin and an MBA from International Space University. His academic research focused on space tourism and cost reduction in space transportation. Before cost engineering, Fabian had a 15-year career working as production engineer and consultant, first for Siemens, then a technology startup. He co-authored 2 books and published over 30 technical papers. A guest lecturer since 1991, he currently teaches at University of Stuttgart and International Space University.
Ryan Feeks
SPA Inc.
Processes & Best Practices Track: NATO Transformation Command: Launching a Cost Estimating Capability (PB06)
Mr. Ryan Feeks has 18 years of cost estimation experience supporting US Navy, Marine Corps, Army, Missile Defence, and most recently NATO. Ryan has supported a wide variety programs from complex weapon systems, sensors, IT, and software sizing and estimation. Ryan has spent the last nine years helping developing cost estimation capabilities at two separate NATO organizations. Ryan has a BS in Economics from Marquette University.
Kyle Ferris
Tecolote Research, Inc.
Data Science Track: “Cracking the Code”: Demystifying Programming Languages for Data Analytics (DS02)
Kyle Ferris, PCEA is a Cost Analyst for Tecolote Research, Inc., where he currently provides cost and data analytics support for the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA). Mr. Ferris holds a Bachelor of Science in Conflict Analysis with a Minor in Intelligence Analysis from George Mason University. Recent professional accomplishments include receiving the 2021 Junior Analyst of the Year Award from the Washington Chapter of ICEAA, and presenting at various ICEAA Workshops, Joint IT-Software Cost Forums, and MORS Symposiums.
Brian Flynn
Technomics, Inc.
Analytical Methods Track: Innovative Risk-Driven Contract Pricing Strategy (AM03)
Brian Flynn supports national security efforts at Technomics’ Arlington, Virginia, headquarters. He has a deep understanding of and strong working relationships with many of the cost and operations research organizations in the U.S. DoD and the NATO Alliance. His areas of expertise include capability portfolio analysis and AoAs, weapon system and software cost estimating – including the cloud, EVM, econometric modeling, and corporate financial health. Dr. Flynn has undying pride in his service as a Marine.
Greg Forman
the MITRE Corporation
Technical Innovations Track: AI and Cost Estimation: Data Science’s Expanding Role in Cost Estimating (TI03)
Greg Forman has 15 years of experience in the areas of cost estimation and data analysis. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Corporate Finance from the Moore School of Business at the University of South Carolina (2009), and a master’s degree in Systems Engineering Management from Georgetown University (2017). He is a member of the Society of Cost Engineers (SOCE) and for the past 7 years has supported large, automated information system and IT deployments.
Paul Broaddus Franklin Jr.
Naval Engineering Logistics Office
Modeling & Case Studies Track: Foundational Cost Models (MC02)
Paul Franklin is a career public servant from Ashland, Virginia. He studied econometric statistics at University of Virginia and has a penchant for modern military history. Since graduating he has worked as an Operations Research Analyst with the Navy specializing in infrastructure project forecasting and intelligence-related contracting.
Dan French
Cobec Consulting, Inc.
Processes & Best Practices Track: From Software CONOPS to ROM Estimate in Six Easy Steps (PB04)
Dan has twenty years of experience in a variety of IT roles including analyst, developer, tester, project management, software metrics and software estimation. He has developed CMMi and ISO compliant process improvement and software estimation processes. Dan holds a B.S. in Economics from Virginia Tech and holds certification as a Lifetime CFPS, PMP and CSM. He recently served as the Certification Director on the IPFUG Board of Directors and is the past Chairman of the IFPUG Functional Software Sizing Committee (FSSC). He’s authored numerous white papers/presentations on software metrics, Agile, and estimation.
Louis Fussell
NASA Johnson Space Center
Analytical Methods Track: Alternative Risk Measures for Determining Program Reserves (AM07)
Mr. Louis Fussell is a Programmatic Risk Analyst for NASA’s Johnson Space Center. His responsibilities include performing independent cost and schedule risk analysis for project lifecycle reviews, primarily in support of NASA’s Standing Review Boards. He is proficient in risk analysis tools, such as Tecolote’s Joint Analysis of Cost and Schedule (JACS) and Oracle’s Primavera Risk Analysis. Mr. Fussell holds master’s degrees in mathematics, future studies, and business administration.
Daniel Germony
OSD-CAPE
IT & Cloud Computing Track: Interesting Results from EVAMOSC or “Wow There is a Lot of O&S Data” (IT01)
Daniel Germony is an Operations Research Analyst with 14 years of experience working in the Department of Defense (DoD). Currently, Mr. Germony works in the Office of Secretary of Defense (OSD) – Cost Assessment Program Evaluation (CAPE) Office as the lead for Operations & Support (O&S) data transformation in support of CAPE’s Enterprise Visibility and Management of Operating and Support Costs (EVAMOSC) system. Mr. Germony is CCEA certified and is the president of the Washington Capital area Chapter of ICEAA.
Sarah Green
Air Force Cost Analysis Agency (AFCAA)
Data Science Track: Level up your Cost Analysis with Data Science (DS03)
Sarah Green is an Operations Research Analyst at the Air Force Cost Analysis Agency, currently leading AFCAA’s efforts to integrate data science tools and methods with more traditional cost estimating processes and techniques. She has worked in the cost estimating field for over 15 years, supporting a variety of agencies including the Air Force, Space Force, Navy and NATO. Sarah has a Masters in Systems Engineering and a Bachelors in Mathematics.
Eric J. Hagee
Tecolote Research, Inc.
Data Science Track: Web Applications for Cost Analysis Use: R Shiny vs Python Plotly Dash (DS04)
Eric Hagee, CCEA®, MS, BA is a data analyst for Tecolote Research, Inc., having worked on several cost related projects. He currently supports the US Air Force Cost Analysis Agency (AFCAA) in data collection, standardization, and tool development, and previously supported several US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) customers. He completed graduate work at the University of Wisconsin and undergraduate work at Rutgers University, both in Chemistry. He holds a CCEA®, as of 2023.
Colin Hammond
ScopeMaster Ltd
Software & Agile Track: The Symbiotic Nature of Requirements Quality and Software Cost Estimation (SA02)
Technical Innovations Track: Software Estimation Using Functional Size Derived From User Stories (TI04)
Colin Hammond has worked in IT for over 35 years. He has worked for dozens of organisations across most sectors in various roles from Analyst/Developer to Portfolio Manager. In his continuous search for finding better ways to manage software endeavours, he discovered functional sizing. Colin is the creator of ScopeMaster, the award-winning AI tool that analyses, tests, sizes and generates test scenarios from software requirements.
Daniel J. Harper
The MITRE Corporation
Technical Innovations Track: AI and Cost Estimation: Data Science’s Expanding Role in Cost Estimating (TI03)
Dan Harper, CCEA has over 25 years of professional experience and a passion for sharing knowledge throughout the federal cost and acquisition community. He founded and promotes the Cost FACTS Group, a networking forum of over 500 cost and acquisition professionals. Dan is a co-lead for the MITRE Cost CoP and serves as a founding member of the ICEAA Machine Learning Working Group. He has a Finance degree from Virginia Tech and a Masters in Technology Management from George Mason University.
Anh (Anne) Harris
Galorath, Inc.
Analytical Methods Track: One Number to Correlate Them All – Efficient Implementation of Correlation (AM04)
Anh (Anne) Harris has been a SEER application software engineer for over 25 years. She specializes in C/C++ programming and has been part of SEER-H and SEER-SEM major updates. She has implemented monte carlo analysis into all the SEER applications, including the most recent updates related to correlation. Anne has her BS in Mathematics from UCLA and MBA from USC.
Ann Hawpe
Herren Associates
Trending Topics Track: Cost Engineering a MVDC Power & Energy Design for Navy Surface Combatants (TT07)
Ann Hawpe is a co-founding member of Herren’s Program Analysis and Cost Engineering practice. She established and managed the firm’s business with the Navy, USMC, and USCG for almost 20 years and leads a team of 30 cost estimators. Ms. Hawpe identifies trends in cost estimating and delivers advanced training throughout the cost community. She holds a BS in Industrial and Systems engineering from Virginia Tech and a MS in Systems Engineering from GW University.
Doug Howarth
Hypernomics, Inc.
Modeling & Case Studies Track: CSI EU (Cost Scene Investigation – European Union) (MC03)
Doug Howarth discovered Multidimensional Economics, or ME, also known as Hypernomics. ME reveals the linked, opposing, non-physical forces known as the Law of Value and Demand, which replaces the law of supply and demand. He’s been published 15 times across four continents. His company, MEE Inc., founded on his ideas, has worked for NASA, Virgin Galactic, Lockheed Martin, Raytheon Technologies, and Northrop Grumman. He won ICEAA Best Track Papers in 2011 and 2018.
Bob Hunt
NSI
IT & Cloud Computing Track: Applying Simple Function Point Analysis to an 804 Rapid Acquisition Program Cost (IT02)
CEBoK-S Training Track: Lesson 1: Introduction to Software Cost Estimating (CEBoK01)
Bob Hunt has over 40 years of cost estimating and analysis experience. He received his Society for Cost Estimating and Analysis (SCA) Certification in 1991. He has served in senior technical and management positions as President Galorath Federal, CALIBRE Systems (Vice President), CALIBRE Services (President), SAIC (Vice President), the U.S. Army Cost and Economic Analysis Center (Chief of the Vehicles, Ammunition, and Electronics ICE Division, U.S. Army Directorate of Cost Analysis (Deputy Director for Automation and Modeling), and other Army analysis positions.
Chris Hutchings
Galorath, Inc.
Processes & Best Practices Track: Take the Blue Pill! (PB08)
Christopher Hutchings joined Galorath Incorporated in 2004 and serves as the Vice President for Global Solutions. He has over thirty years of experience in developing, implementing, and supporting a wide variety of value-added solutions. Before joining Galorath, Christopher enjoyed careers in the British Civil Service (MOD) and the British Army (REME).
Andi Hylton
Technomics, Inc.
Analytical Methods Track: Innovative Risk-Driven Contract Pricing Strategy (AM03)
Mrs. Hylton is a Lead Analyst for Technomics supporting the Defense Cost and Resource Center (DCARC) within OSD CAPE. She provides expertise in both Cost and Software Data Report (CSDR) Policy and Process and CSDR planning and validation for Navy programs. She holds a B.S. in Integrated Science and Technology with a concentration in Information Knowledge Management and a minor in Public Policy and Administration from James Madison University.
Sara Jardine
Galorath, Inc.
Software & Agile Track: A Novel Approach for Early Phase Agile Software Estimating and Sizing (SA03)
Sara Jardine is a Senior Cost Analyst for Galorath Federal with over 17 years of financial management experience. She has served a broad variety of federal agencies including the Army, Navy, OUSD AT&L, DAU, Veterans Affairs, and the Department of Homeland Security. Winner of 3 Best Paper Awards at ICEAA, Sara earned a MS in Project Management from George Washington University and a BS in Mathematics from the University of Michigan.
David Jo
Galorath, Inc.
Analytical Methods Track: Using Bayes’ Theorem to Develop CERs – Extending the Gaussian Model (AM06)
David Jo is a PCEA certified cost analyst with a Bachelors Degree in Risk Management from The Penn State University. He has worked as a Database Administrator (DBA) for Wheeled and Tracked Vehicles (WTV) and is currently supporting Tactical Tomahawks (TACTOM) program. Mr. Jo is working to become a proficient data scientist able to use multiple programming languages. Outside of work, Mr. Jo enjoys watching football and playing golf.
Brent M. Johnstone
Lockheed Martin
Modeling & Case Studies Track: Trouble With the Curve: Engineering Changes and Manufacturing Learning Curves (MC04)
Brent Johnstone is a Lockheed Martin Fellow and production air vehicle cost estimator at Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Company in Fort Worth, Texas. He has 35 years’ experience in the military aircraft industry, including 32 years as a cost estimator. He has worked on the F-16 program and has been most recently the lead Production Operations cost estimator for the F-35 program. He has a Master of Science from Texas A&M University and a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Texas at Austin.
Henry Jones
Herren Associates
Trending Topics Track: Cost Engineering a MVDC Power & Energy Design for Navy Surface Combatants (TT07)
Henry Jones graduated from Old Dominion University with a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering with a focus in Mechanical Systems and Design. He began his career as a valve engineer specializing on Nimitz-class aircraft carriers and moved onto roles as a marine engineer designing auxiliary systems and as direct support to Navy Ship Design Managers. Currently, he is the Lead Model-Based Systems Engineer at Herren Associates where he interfaces extensively with Navy power and energy systems.
Jennifer Kirchhoffer
Tecolote Research, Inc.
CEBoK-S Training Track: Lesson 0: Overview & Curriculum (CEBoK00)
CEBoK-S Training Track: Lesson 3: 5-Step Estimating Process (CEBoK03)
Jennifer Kirchhoffer is the general manager for the Software Products and Services Group with Tecolote Research. Her group develops and supports CADE, EVAMOSC, EVM-CR, ACEIT, and various other cost estimating tools and data repositories. Prior to Tecolote, she served in the Air Force as a cost analyst. Jennifer is a CCE/A, CCP (Certified Cost Professional), has a BS in Economics from USAFA, and an MS in Cost Analysis from AFIT.
Adam Kidwell
Technomics, Inc.
Processes & Best Practices Track: You’ve Invested, Now Sustain it: Insights into the Sustainment Review Process (PB02)
Adam is a Senior Associate at Technomics and has been with the company since February 2020. He currently provides cost support to the Navy within its Integrated Warfare Systems (IWS) PEO. He has prior experience designing aircraft parts for use in military flight simulators. Adam has a BS degree in Mechanical Engineering (2018) from the University of Maryland Baltimore County.
Sam Kitchin
Augur Consulting
Software & Agile Track: Scheduling Agile-Fall – Best Practices (SA04)
Sam Kitchin is the Technical Director at Augur Consulting with more than 10 years of experience in government acquisition. He has performed cost analysis for a broad range of projects within the Department of Defense and the Department of Energy. In his current role, he oversees training and implementation of cost estimating best practices within Augur. Sam graduated from Wake Forest University with a BS in Mathematical Business. He is a Certified Cost Estimator/Analyst (CCEA).
Stephen Koellner
Augur Consulting, Inc.
Analytical Methods Track: Spread Thin: Managing Coefficient of Variation in Monte-Carlo Based Cost Models (AM10)
Stephen Koellner is a Technical Advisor at Augur Consulting with an extensive background in cost estimation. Stephen has supported DOD and DOE programs, including the 2022 ICEAA “Team Achievement of the Year” winning Army Defensive Cyber Operations cost team. He was a contributor to the 2020 GAO Cost Estimating and Assessment Guide, was published in the Earth and Planetary Science Letters journal for ice sheet modeling research, and has a BS from Pennsylvania State University.
Sergey Kozin
Quantech Services, Inc.
IT & Cloud Computing Track: Comparing the Cost of Cloud Services: AWS vs Azure (IT05)
Sergey Kozin is a senior cost analyst at Quantech Services, Inc with more than 5 years of experience supporting multiple portfolios for the Air Force and newly formed Space Force. Familiar with estimating across all phases of DoD Acquisition including development, production, and operations/sustainment as well as foreign military projects. His educational background includes a dual B.S. in Electrical and Computer Engineering from Northeastern University.
RJ Krempasky
Technomics, Inc.
IT & Cloud Computing Track: Shining Rays of Light & Savings on Cloud Portfolios: An Important Advance! (IT06)
RJ is an ICEAA PCE/A and ADC Engineer at Amazon Web Services. He has performed cloud cost monitoring to assist customers with maintaining dev/prod environments and operations of mission critical systems within executable cost allocations. Mr. Krempasky developed cloud cost models, designed/configured databases, and created data visualization tools. He holds a BA in History from Penn State University and an MS in Data Analytics from Western Governors University.
Benjamin Kwok
Tecolote Research, Inc.
Modeling & Case Studies Track: Developing a Schedule Model From a Cost Modeler’s Perspective (MC05)
Benjamin Kwok is a technical expert at Tecolote Research and has supported cost research efforts at Space Systems Command (SSC) for over 19 years. He is mostly known for being “the USCM guy” and is a regular speaker at the SSC CIPTs. He graduated from UCSD with a BS in electrical engineering and worked at Boeing for a few years prior to Tecolote. Lastly, he is passionate about data visualization and product design.
Maura Anne Lapoff
Technomics, Inc.
Modeling & Case Studies Track: All in the Hierarchy: Meta-Estimators to Standardize Work Breakdown Structures (MC06)
Maura Lapoff is an analyst supporting the NNSA’s Office of Programming, Analysis, and Evaluation. She holds a B.S. in Neuroscience from the University of Miami and is pursuing an interdisciplinary master’s degree in Computational Social Science from George Mason University. She is a former NGFP Fellow and Boren Scholar. Prior to supporting the NNSA, she supported the evaluation of global health engagements through the Uniformed Services University Center for Global Health Engagement.
Conner Lawston
Summit2Sea Consulting
IT & Cloud Computing Track: Cloud-Based Machine Learning in the DoD Environment (IT03)
Conner Lawston holds a MS degree in Data Science from Georgia Tech & BS in Engineering from Cal Poly. He is currently a data scientist at Summit2Sea consulting, where he has worked on projects involving machine learning, language processing, and computer vision. Prior to his 2 years at Summit2Sea, Conner spent 3 years cost estimating DoD space systems.
John Liss
Technomics, Inc.
Processes & Best Practices Track: You’ve Invested, Now Sustain it: Insights into the Sustainment Review Process (PB02)
John is a Lead Analyst who joined Technomics in October 2020. He has led and supported OSRs, Cost Estimate developments, and data collection improvements for the Program Management Transportation Systems (PMTS) office. Additionally, he supports TACOM Security Assistance Management Directorate (SAMD) and IWS A in dashboard creation efforts to visualize large data sets in easy formats to make decisions.
Charles Loelius
National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA)
Modeling & Case Studies Track: The Cost of Bureaucracy (MC07)
Chad Lucas
Galorath, Inc.
IT & Cloud Computing Track: Applying Simple Function Point Analysis to an 804 Rapid Acquisition Program Cost (IT02)
Mr. Lucas is a Senior Cost Estimator with Galorath Federal and has 22 years of experience in Cost Analysis, cost modeling, and PPBE across a wide range of Federal agencies. Previously he worked for the MITRE Corporation, Modern Technology Solutions (MTSI) and CEI Management Consulting. Mr. Lucas holds a BS degree in Management and an MBA, both from George Mason University. He has held a CCE/A certification in cost analysis since 2005.
John Maddrey
Tecolote Research, Inc.
Data Science Track: “Cracking the Code”: Demystifying Programming Languages for Data Analytics (DS02)
John W. Maddrey is a cost estimator and data scientist with 10 years of experience in cost estimating, mathematical modeling, and advanced analytics. He supports ACAT and major acquisition programs for the United States Navy. Additionally, John leads Tecolote’s Advanced Analytics Research Group developing modern analytical techniques and manages Tecolote’s data science training curriculum. John has a BA in mathematics from McDaniel College and an MA in mathematics from Bowling Green State University.
Candace Mahala
Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc. (SPA)
Processes & Best Practices Track: NATO Transformation Command: Launching a Cost Estimating Capability (PB06)
A Senior Cost Estimator and Program Manager, Candace Mahala has supported the US Air Force, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), and industry for a wide variety of projects. With over 16 years cost estimating experience, she has effectively supported highly complex weapon system modernization projects, software intensive projects, and facilities implementation. Candace has a BA in Mathematics from Emmanuel College and a MS in Operations Research from Northeastern University.
Patrick Malone
Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc. (SPA)
Processes & Best Practices Track: Managing Schedule Risk Expectations During Program Execution (PB07)
Patrick Malone, P.E., is Certified Cost Estimator/Analyst (CCE/A), EVP and PMP at Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc. He performs in-depth cost, earned value and risk assessments for space, air and marine programs of all types and sizes. His analytical insight provides creative advancements in science and technology. An experienced engineer, Pat has researched technology and system readiness levels, agile and system engineering methods providing insight to managing programmatic risks to obtain positive project outcomes.
Bryan Mariscal
Tecolote Research, Inc.
Data Science Track: Using Machine Learning to Improve Cost Data Normalization (DS06)
Bryan Mariscal is a Data Scientist at Tecolote Research, Inc., where he works on researching, developing, and applying algorithms and tools to data problems in support of Space Systems Command cost research efforts. He is a certified cost estimator/analyst (CCEA®). He was previously a structural analyst working on DoD launch systems, and earned BS and MS degrees in Structural Engineering from UC San Diego.
Zachary Matheson
National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA)
Modeling & Case Studies Track: The Cost of Bureaucracy (MC07)
Zachary joined the National Nuclear Security Administration in 2019 after completing a dual PhD in Nuclear Physics and Computational Math, Science, and Engineering from Michigan State University. In June 2020 he moved into his current position in the Office of Programming, Analysis, and Evaluation, where he uses modeling and simulation to support NNSA planning and budgeting. Zachary is a big fan of regression analysis.
Lauren Mayer
RAND Corporation
Analytical Methods Track: Incorporating Risk into Analysis of Alternatives Results: A Novel Methodology (AM05)
Lauren A. Mayer (Ph.D., Engineering and Public Policy, Carnegie Mellon University) is a Senior Policy Researcher at RAND with 20 years of experience researching risk-related topics. Currently, her research centers around improving the defense acquisition system. Prior to pursuing her Ph.D., Mayer worked for ISL, Inc. performing risk and decision analyses as a consultant for the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission and other government agencies. She has also worked Actuary for GEICO. Mayer has a B.Sc. in Mathematics and Environmental Policy and a M.Sc. in Environmental Risk Assessment.
Kevin McKeel
Logapps LLC
Technical Innovations Track: AI and Cost Estimation: Data Science’s Expanding Role in Cost Estimating (TI03)
Mr. Kevin McKeel has over 25 years of experience in software cost estimation. He is a CCEA and SAFe Architect and received the prestigious 2021 Technical Achievement of the Year award from ICEAA related to research of automated software sizing using AI and NLP. Mr. McKeel holds a Bachelor’s in Business Administration (Finance, ‘89) from James Madison University and a Master’s in Business Administration (Decision Systems, ’92) from The George Washington University.
Sara McNeal
Unison Cost Engineering
Trending Topics Track: Modeling Battery Manufacturing Complexity (TT04)
Sara McNeal is currently a Solutions Consultant with Unison. She has spent the last 12 years performing quantitative, qualitative, and business analyses for U.S. Air Force, Space Force, NASA, United Nations, and Army. While on active duty, she was an Aviation Electrician on F/A-18’s in the Navy. In the Army, she was Mission Leader on Personnel Security Detachment team for senior leadership escorts and recovery missions. She deployed in support of Operation Enduring and Iraqi Freedom.
Karen McRitchie
Galorath, Inc.
Analytical Methods Track: One Number to Correlate Them All – Efficient Implementation of Correlation (AM04)
Technical Innovations Track: Software Estimation Using Functional Size Derived From User Stories (TI04)
CEBoK-S Training Track: Lesson Z: Commercial Estimating Models (CEBoKZ)
Karen McRitchie has been with Galorath Incorporated for 30 years and leads all work related to the SEER product line. She comes from a software development and mathematical modeling background and has worked in all domains of cost estimation including software, IT services, hardware and manufacturing. As an advocate for costing professionals, she seeks new and innovative methods to improve the state of the cost estimating and analysis practice.
Tommie (Troy) Miller
Tecolote Research, Inc.
Analytical Methods Track: DMeasuring Schedule Uncertainty (AM09)
During my more than 20-year career with Tecolote Research Inc. I have been afforded many opportunities to explore the spectrum of cost and schedule analytics. I’ve conducted cost and statistical modeling and analysis on AF MMIII, NASA, Navy SSP and NavSea programs. I worked on the NASA Constellation program where I was introduced to Joint Cost & Schedule Analysis and I led efforts to perform similar analyzes on several Minuteman III programs. I currently work on the AF Sentinel program conducting SRAs and other schedule analytics.
Nicolaus Millin
Unison Cost Engineering
Processes & Best Practices Track: Educating Future Cost Engineers in the Space Station Design Workshop (SSDW) (PB03)
Nicolaus Millin is a solution consultant for Unison Cost Engineering in Germany. He holds a diploma (Dipl.-Ing.) in aerospace engineering from TU Berlin. He wrote a diploma thesis on stochastic simulation of launcher market development as function of launcher reliability (1990). Nicolaus was Prof Heinz Hermann Koelle’s co-author of “A Model for the Geostationary Orbital Infrastructure, System Analysis” (1988). He is well-versed in several programming languages and has been a user of PRICE parametric cost models since 2010.
Arlene F. Minkiewicz
Unison Cost Engineering
IT & Cloud Computing Track: Addressing CI/CD with Automated Testing in Your Software Estimate (IT04)
Arlene F. Minkiewicz is the Chief Scientist at PRICE® Systems with over 37 years of experience at building cost models. She leads the cost research activity for TruePlanning®, the suite of cost estimating products that PRICE provides. She is a software measurement expert dedicated to finding creative solutions focused on helping make software development professionals successful. She is widely published and speaks frequently on software related topics. PRICE Systems is now Unison Cost Engineering.
Karen Mourikas
The Boeing Company
Analytical Methods Track: Design to Cost: What it is and Why You Should Care (AM01)
Karen Mourikas is a Technical Fellow at the Boeing Company in Systems Engineering Affordability Analysis & Optimization. Her current work includes expanding the scope of Affordability Analysis to cover the entire lifecycle from early concept design through operations & support, and integrating Affordability Analysis into an MBE environment, enabling integrated cost-performance trades early on. Karen’s previous work includes Machine Learning for Cost Analyses, Product Teardown, Production System Analysis, Experimentation, and Optimal/should Costing.
Daniel Mulrow
National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA)
Modeling & Case Studies Track: The Cost of Bureaucracy (MC07)
Robert Nehring
Technomics, Inc.
Analytical Methods Track: Innovative Risk-Driven Contract Pricing Strategy (AM03)
Mr. Nehring is a project manager for Technomics, where he has developed many tools, data visualizations, databases, and cost estimates for programs throughout DoD and DHS. He is an ICEAA-Certified Cost Estimator/Analyst who has won many awards, including the ICEAA 2013 Cost Estimator/Analyst of the Year for Technical Achievement and Best Conference Paper at the 2012 SCEA/ISPA Workshop. He also developed the innovative Galaxy Chart concept and many other models and tools throughout his career.
Daniel Newkirk
Tecolote Research, Inc.
Modeling & Case Studies Track: Developing a Schedule Model From a Cost Modeler’s Perspective (MC05)
Daniel Newkirk is a data scientist with Tecolote Research, and has supported cost research efforts at SSC for over 5 years. His research focus includes new approaches to modeling cost and schedule data, and automating data analysis. Drawing on his experience as a biomedical researcher, he develops methods and software using machine learning and natural language processing techniques to enable new analysis capabilities. Daniel earner his PhD in Biomedicine from UC Irvine in 2015.
Alton Ng
Galorath, Inc.
Technical Innovations Track: Software Estimation Using Functional Size Derived From User Stories (TI04)
Alton Ng has been a SEER systems engineer for over 10 years working to develop key features of SEER-SEM. He has been involved with many cost modeling updates related to sizing, agile, maintenance and estimation in general. Alton has a BS in Mathematics of Computation with a minor in statistics from UCLA.
Gunnar Nichols
Quantech Services, Inc.
IT & Cloud Computing Track: Comparing the Cost of Cloud Services: AWS vs Azure (IT05)
A lifelong interest in logic and numbers drove Gunnar Nichols to a career in Cost Analysis at Quantech Services. He has 4 years of DoD experience supporting radar and information technology efforts. He holds a B.S. in Mathematics from the University of New Hampshire and is working on an M.S. in Computer Science from Boston University.
Javier Provencio
Lockheed Martin
Processes & Best Practices Track: Take the Blue Pill! (PB08)
Since joining Lockheed Martin corporation (Stock; LMT), A global security & aerospace company. Mr. Provencio has been afforded the opportunity to hold expanding roles at Aero, MFC, and RMS/CETO. Each assignment has highlighted the unique cost challenges and available synergies. In coordination with highly respected senior leadership, he will continue to identify and drive a cost control mindset as the Affordability Process & IT Tools Project Engineer.
Sanathanan Rajagopal
Sirius Analysis
Technical Innovations Track: Software Maintenance and Software Obsolescence: A Tale of Two Cost Drivers (TI06)
Professor Sanath is a highly capable and internationally recognised Cost Engineer/Cost Estimator specialising in Software Estimating, Software Obsolescence Management, Software Obsolescence Cost Estimating and Parametric Estimating and a Visiting Professor of Engineering and Cost Management at Birmingham City University, UK. Sanath is the current Chairman of SCAF (Society of Cost Analysis and Forecasting) and past UK Director of ICEAA.
Steven Read
Tecolote Research, Inc.
Technical Innovations Track: Wouldn’t It Be Nice to Use All of Your Data Points: An Introduction to NICE (TI07)
Steven Read is a Systems Engineer with the Software Products and Services Group at Tecolote Research, Inc. He is a main contributor on ACEIT with 10+ years’ experience, principally responsible for the calculation engine. He has specialized expertise in regression, inflation/escalation, learning curves, Latin Hypercube simulation, and JCL. Steven holds a B.S. in Mathematics of Computation from UCLA and an M.S. in Applied Mathematics from UCSB. Steven enjoys solving complex mathematical problems using computer algorithms.
Taryn Anne Reilly
L3 Harris Technologies
Modeling & Case Studies Track: Cost Estimating: The Estimator’s Guide to a Parametric Universe (MC10)
Taryn Anne Reilly is the Director of Cost Engineering and Analytics at L3Harris Technologies with 25+ years experience in System Engineering, Capture Management including PTW and Program Management. In her current role she is combining her previous functions with data analytics and commercial tool applications to develop and adopt a parametric cost modeling capability, driving efficiency and traceability in the cost estimating process. This is her second year of ICEAA membership and conference attendance.
Kenneth Rhodes
Technomics, Inc.
IT & Cloud Computing Track: Shining Rays of Light & Savings on Cloud Portfolios: An Important Advance! (IT06)
Ken Rhodes is an ICEAA CCE/A, Project Manager, and Employee Owner at Technomics, Inc. He has over fifteen years of experience performing cost analysis and acquisition decision support for DoD customers. Currently, Mr. Rhodes develops life-cycle cost estimates, cost / price assessments, and data visualization products for software and IT programs. He holds a BS in Industrial and Systems Engineering and MS in Systems Engineering from Virginia Tech.
Valerie Rockwell
The Aerospace Corporation
Processes & Best Practices Track: Methodology for Assessing Reasonableness of Large Scientific Facilities’ Costs (PB10)
Valerie Rockwell is an Associate Member of Technical Staff at The Aerospace Corporation who supports the production of papers and development of new tools and cost models for ground-based telescopes and science instruments. With Astrophysics BS and Anthropology BA degrees from the University of California, Los Angeles, she has co-authored multiple papers and reports, one of which was published in the Astronomical Journal in 2021 and another which was presented at the 2021 ICEAA conference.
Wilson Rosa
Department of Homeland Security
Software & Agile Track: A Novel Approach for Early Phase Agile Software Estimating and Sizing (SA03)
Dr. Rosa serves as Assistant Director at the DHS Cost Analysis Division. He has over 25 years of experience in government including DHS and DoD. In 2015, Dr. Rosa launched the Annual Software and IT Cost Analysis Forum. Winner of 6 Best Paper Awards at premier conferences including the IEEE/ACM International Symposium on Empirical Software Engineering and Measurement, International Conference on Software Process and Product Measurement (IWSM Mensura), and ICEAA Workshop.
Kimberley Rowlands
Department of Defence (Australia)
Trending Topics Track: Standardising and Governing Cost Estimation and More in the Australian Defence (TT03)
Kimberley is a member of ICEAA, former secretary for the Australian Chapter, and now Branch head of the newly established Costing branch within the Australian Department of Defence. Kimberley and her team are responsible for centralising cost policy, providing governance and assurance of cost estimation professionals and practices and developing an inspiring career for public servants pursuing a profession in cost estimation.
Esteban Sanchez
Galorath, Inc.
IT & Cloud Computing Track: Applying Simple Function Point Analysis to an 804 Rapid Acquisition Program Cost (IT02)
Technical Innovations Track: Software Estimation Using Functional Size Derived From User Stories (TI04)
Mr. Esteban Sanchez is a senior software and hardware consultant from Galorath. He has an engineering degree in electronics and a masters in IT administration and project management. Esteban is a recognized expert on software and hardware sizing and estimation. He is the chair of IFPUG Sizing Standards Committee, PMP and Scrum Master certified. More importantly, Esteban has collected lots of experience and knowledge by helping customers around the world do estimates.
Abby Schendt
Technomics, Inc.
Technical Innovations Track: VEGA: Shining Light on the Battles of Data Collection and Management (TI08)
Abby Schendt is a lead analyst at Technomics, supporting the NNSA in cost estimating and data driven decisions and recommendations. She previously worked at Rand Corporation on acquisition policy and support using modeling to inform policy recommendations. Abby is a graduate of the University of Maryland-College Park, with a MPS in Applied economics, and Rose Hulman Institute of Technology, with a BS in Physics, Mathematics and Economics.
Candice Schultheis
Air Force Cost Analysis Agency (AFCAA)
Trending Topics Track: Sustainment Contracts Cost Growth Analysis (TT06)
Candice Schultheis is a Cost Analyst with the Air Force Cost Analysis Agency, Operations and Support Division. She has held various cost analysis positions within the Air Force and has supported a variety of cost estimates, ranging from software programs to training systems. Within AFCAA, Ms. Schultheis provides leadership with strategic analysis and decision support. She has a Bachelor’s degree in business from Wright State University, a Master’s degree in Public Policy from the University of Kentucky, and a Master’s degree from the Naval Postgraduate School.
Richard Shea
Herren Associates
Trending Topics Track: Cost Engineering a MVDC Power & Energy Design for Navy Surface Combatants (TT07)
Richard Shea joined Herren Associates in 2016 as an Associate supporting NAVSEA 05C. Mr. Shea has experience supporting various Department of Defense (DoD) Organizations ranging from the DoD Health Affairs, Defense Health Agency (DHA), Department of Veterans Affairs, US Marine Corps, US Army, and now the US Navy. Mr. Shea is experienced in building program life cycle cost estimates, business case analysis, independent cost estimates, and special studies.
Patrick Shelton
Technomics, Inc.
Modeling & Case Studies Track: All in the Hierarchy: Meta-Estimators to Standardize Work Breakdown Structures (MC06)
Patrick Shelton has supported the Office of Programmatic Analysis and Evaluation under the National Nuclear Security Administration’s Office of Management and Budget for the last three years. He primarily produces and leads cost estimates for analyses of alternatives and other early stage capital acquisition projects, with a focus on creating and improving defensible, data-driven methodologies and models. Patrick holds Bachelor of Science degrees in Marketing and Political Science from Penn State University’s Schreyer Honors College.
Cassidy Shevlin
Galorath, Inc.
Processes & Best Practices Track: Take the Blue Pill! (PB08)
Cassidy Shevlin joined Galorath Incorporated in 2022 and serves as a Customer Engagement Specialist. She is a servant leader with a demonstrated history of working in the experience industry, with a strong passion for excellent customer service and empowerment. At Galorath, Cassidy strives to make the lives of both customers and fellow employees easier and more meaningful.
Eric Sick
Galorath, Inc.
Modeling & Case Studies Track: Unprecedented – Accurate Estimating in the Hypersonics Era (MC08)
Eric Sick is an Engineering Cost Consultant at Galorath Federal with five years of cost analysis experience, specializing in aircraft and space program cost estimation. He has supported independent cost estimation, program acquisition, life cycle cost estimation, and analysis for commercial, science, and DoD domains. He holds a B.S. in Aerospace Engineering from the University of California, Los Angeles.
Christian Smart
Galorath, Inc.
Analytical Methods Track: One Number to Correlate Them All – Efficient Implementation of Correlation (AM04)
Analytical Methods Track: Using Bayes’ Theorem to Develop CERs – Extending the Gaussian Model (AM06)
Modeling & Case Studies Track: Unprecedented – Accurate Estimating in the Hypersonics Era (MC08)
Dr. Smart has a Ph.D. in Applied Mathematics, with more than 20 years of experience with the application of predictive analytics, machine learning, and risk management to defense and aerospace programs. Solving for Project Risk Management: Understanding the Critical Role of Uncertainty in Project Management is his first book. Dr. Smart is a Certified Cost Estimator/Analyst, the 2009 recipient of the ISPA Parametrician of the Year Award, the 2021 Frank Frieman Lifetime Acheivement Award, and has presented at numerous ISPA, SCEA, and ICEAA conferences.
Alex Smith
Quantech Services, Inc.
Software & Agile Track: Tales from the Trenches – Challenges of Data Analytics in a DevSecOps Program (SA05)
Alex Smith is a Business Area Manager for Quantech Services. He provides managerial and technical oversight to teams within Space Force Battle Management Command Control & Communications and Air Force PEO Digital delivering cost and data analytics for IT Systems, Aircraft, Radar, and Cyber programs. He has 12 years of experience supporting the DoD through engineering, cost, and data analysis roles. He has a Master’s Degree in Economics from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro.
Brittany Smith
Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL)
Processes & Best Practices Track: Accidental Proof of Calculus for Cost Analysts (PB09)
Brittany Smith is an operations research analyst for the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) providing cost support for pre-acquisition research and development programs. Prior to AFRL, she worked for the Air Force Cost Analysis Agency where she supported cost estimates for ACAT I programs including F-15EX, VC-25B, Global Hawk, and MH-139. Brittany earned a Master of Science in Data Analytics from Southern New Hampshire University and a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from Indiana University.
Jack Snyder
Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL)
Processes & Best Practices Track: Accidental Proof of Calculus for Cost Analysts (PB09)
Jack was the 2021 ICEAA Greater Dayton Chapter Educator of the Year and in 2020 awarded both the AFMC Excellence in Cost Analysis award and the 2020 HQ AFRL Leadership award. As an analyst supporting pre-acquisition R&D programs within AFRL, he has led estimates for hypersonics, munitions, and fuel reduction studies. Before joining AFRL in 2016 he was the lead development cost analyst for the USAF AFLCMC MQ-9 Reaper program office. He began civil service in 2011 and received an MBA while supporting the C-130 and F-22 program offices. Jack also has a BS in mechanical engineering.
Victor Sorrentino
Herren Associates
Trending Topics Track: Cost Engineering a MVDC Power & Energy Design for Navy Surface Combatants (TT07)
Victor Sorrentino retired from the United States Navy in 2018 after serving more than 21 years as a Surface Warfare Officer. Notable tours include Chief of Staff, Standing NATO Maritime Group TWO and Deputy Director, Operational Energy Office on the Secretary of the Navy Staff. Today, Mr. Sorrentino is the Director of Energy Programs at Herren Associates where he has continued to support the US Navy’s executive decision-making process for energy innovation and investment.
Rainey Southworth
NSI
IT & Cloud Computing Track: Applying Simple Function Point Analysis to an 804 Rapid Acquisition Program Cost (IT02)
Rainey Southworth has been a cost analyst on the PMA-281 cost team for the past 3 years as a contractor through Naval Systems, Inc (NSI). In this multifaceted role, Ms. Southworth has provided support throughout the program office before dedicating herself to the Continuum program (formerly Next Generation Naval Planning System (NGNMPS)) and their efforts of utilizing Agile in a DoD setting. She has a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from the University of North Carolina Wilmington, with her focus of work in both applied and theoretic mathematics.
Melissa Stone
United States Air Force
Processes & Best Practices Track: Interviewing Subject Matter Experts (PB05)
Melissa Stone was a high school math teacher in Boston before changing her career to Cost Analysis. For more than 15 years, she has provided support to various DoD customers for Electronic Weapons Systems acquisitions, Information Technology development and maintenance efforts, and Services Acquisitions. Presently, Melissa provides Cost support for the Department of the Air Force’s Cryptologic and Cyber Systems Division (CCSD). Her passion is providing training to new Cost Analysts, both technical and the development of soft skills.
Vivian Tang
Unison Cost Engineering
Modeling & Case Studies Track: Practical Estimating of Hardware Lifecycle and Total Ownership Costs (MC09)
F. Gurney Thompson III
Unison Cost Engineering
Modeling & Case Studies Track: Systems Engineering Cost Estimation Aligned with MIL-STD-881F (MC09)
Gurney has over 15 years of experience with cost estimating at Unison, where he leads the hardware research team. He spends much of his time researching and designing costing solutions, most recently for common element models, hardware lifecycle cost management, and IT/electronic system deployment projects. Gurney graduated with a B.S. in Systems Engineering from the University of Virginia in 2007.
Michael Thompson
Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc. (SPA)
Processes & Best Practices Track: NATO Transformation Command: Launching a Cost Estimating Capability (PB06)
Mr. Thompson has been a part of the cost estimating, analysis, scheduling, and earned value community for 30 years and has worked for a number of defense contractors either as an employee or consultant. Currently Mr. Thompson is supporting the NATO, as a Principle Cost Estimator. His other cost estimating experiences are in aircraft, spacecraft, and environmental remediation. He is also an accomplished master scheduler and a certified EVP.
Ryan Timm
Timm Analytics
Trending Topics Track: The Economics of Rocket Reusability (TT08)
Ryan Timm is the President of Timm Analytics, a boutique consulting firm specializing in cost estimating and financial analysis support to federal clients. Mr. Timm has more than 20 years of consulting experience in major acquisition decisions for public sector clients and has experience across the Intelligence Community as a cost analyst for the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO), NGA, DIA, and FBI. He has also supported military services and civilian agencies. He is a James Madison University alumni and ICEAA certified CCE/A.
Benjamin Truskin
Technomics, Inc.
Analytical Methods Track: The Space Between Us: A Novel Collaborative Spacecraft Estimating Framework (AM08)
A project manager and employee owner at Technomics with 9 years experience providing data-driven decisions to leaders. As a senior cost analyst at the NRO Cost and Acquisition Assessment Group (CAAG) Ben has provided support to a leading acquisition group. Ben’s experience includes: cost estimation and phasing, data policy and normalization, methods development, source selection support, industry interface, database requirements development. He received his Master’s and Bachelor’s in Aerospace Engineering from The Pennsylvania State University.
Eric van der Vliet
CGI
Software & Agile Track: How Efficient are Your Efficiency Levers? (SA07)
CEBoK-S Training Track: Lesson 2: Software Paradigms (CEBoK02)
Eric has more than 30 years of experience in IT with a specialization in Software Cost Estimation over the last 10 years. Eric is director of the Estimation Centre of Expertise at CGI global and president of the Dutch Software Cost Estimation organization Nesma. Eric has published several papers on international conferences with respect to Software Cost Estimation and the relation with IT Architecture as well as the use in Agile environments. In his recent project he worked on the development of an IT Cost Estimation tool supported by data analytics and machine learning for Application Services.
Jenna Vandervort
Technomics, Inc.
Modeling & Case Studies Track: The Cost of Bureaucracy (MC07)
Raymond Vera
National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA)
Technical Innovations Track: VEGA: Shining Light on the Battles of Data Collection and Management (TI08)
Ray Vera is the Cost Supervisor for the Office of Cost Estimating and Program Evaluation at the National Nuclear Security Administration. He previously worked at the Defense Contract Management Agency as an earned value management specialist and Bank of America as a bond market quantitative analyst. Ray has a B.S. in Industrial Engineering and Operations Research from the University of California, Berkeley, and a M.S. in Financial Engineering from Claremont Graduate University.
Ryan Webster
Augur Consulting
Software & Agile Track: Scheduling Agile-Fall – Best Practices (SA04)
Ryan Webster is the Consulting Director at Augur Consulting with 12+ years of government cost estimation experience. The majority of his career has been in support of IT projects including network modernization, ERP systems, and Cyber Operations. He holds a BS in Finance and is a Certified Cost Estimator/Analyst (CCEA). Ryan is a contributor to the GAO Cost Estimating and Assessment Guide, and he leads a team that was awarded the ICEAA Team of the Year for their work supporting Army Defensive Cyber Operations (PEO-EIS).
Alex Wekluk
Technomics, Inc.
Analytical Methods Track: The Space Between Us: A Novel Collaborative Spacecraft Estimating Framework (AM08)
IT & Cloud Computing Track: Shining Rays of Light & Savings on Cloud Portfolios: An Important Advance! (IT06)
Alex Wekluk is an ICEAA Certified Cost Estimator/Analyst (CCEA) and Employee Owner at Technomics, Inc. He has over seventeen years of experience performing cost, risk, and technical analyses for the DoD and the IC. He secured a USPTO patent for weapon design work and earned the IC Meritorious Unit Citation for exemplary cost-reduction analysis. He holds a BS in Mechanical Engineering from Virginia Tech and a MA in Economics from George Mason University.
Zachary West
Booz Allen Hamilton
Data Science Track: Automating the Data Preparation Process using R Programming (DS08)
Zachary West is a Cost Analyst/Senior Consultant with Booz Allen Hamilton. He received a bachelor’s degree in Statistics from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University. His professional experiences and interests include producing Life Cycle Cost Estimates (LCCEs) for multiple U.S. Navy Acquisition Category (ACAT) programs and utilizing data science techniques in the field of cost estimation.
Raymond D. Woods
The Aerospace Corporation
Processes & Best Practices Track: Methodology for Assessing Reasonableness of Large Scientific Facilities’ Costs (PB10)
Ray Woods is a Senior Engineering Specialist within Aerospace’s Systems Engineering Department with over 25 years of experience in cost estimating and acquisition planning. He recently supported project cost risk assessments for the NSF, including an ICE and reviews for mid-scale and major infrastructure projects. Ray has performed cost analyses for government, SETA, prime contractor, and FFRDC organizations, supporting a myriad of civil and national security missions, including aircraft, space, missile systems, ground networks, etc.
