Veteran Spotlight: Andy S.

As we approach Veterans Day, we take time to honor the service and sacrifices of the brave men and women who have defended our nation. Our Veteran Spotlight series highlights the remarkable journeys of veterans who continue to make a positive impact in their communities and careers after military service. This month, we're shining a light on Andy S., Principal Systems Engineer.

Andy served with pride in the Nevada Army National Guard. He originally enlisted with 1/221st Cav-A-Troop, based in Yerington, NV, where he operated the Abrams tank (19K). After completing basic training, Andy spent about 20 months on active duty at Fort Irwin, CA. During this time, he primarily served as OPFOR, engaging in combat simulations against other U.S. and allied forces training at the NTC. Andy then transitioned to Cavalry Scout (19D) and attended Squad Designated Marksman school before deploying to Afghanistan in 2009. Following his time in Afghanistan, Andy became an infantryman (11B) and graduated from sniper school. After 13 dedicated years of service, Andy left the Guard to focus on his education and was inducted into the Honorable Order of Saint George.

Andy's military career had already familiarized him with the company and its mission; his wife played a key role in encouraging him to explore a career with the company. After seeing one of the holiday parties, she suggested he consider joining the team. While the holiday parties remain a highlight for the pair, Andy's passion for his work runs much deeper. His role allows him to apply the knowledge and expertise he gained while earning his PhD in Robotics and Mechanical Engineering. Combining his military experience with his technical skills, Andy develops innovative solutions to support the warfighter. 

"Robotics and drones are central to modern and future conflicts. My background as both a soldier and a roboticist enables me to collaborate with the company's subject matter experts to benefit U.S. and Allied forces. I feel incredibly fortunate to have a career that aligns with my passions and provides for my family." - Andy S.

Andy has been fortunate to receive two pieces of advice that have greatly influenced his approach to his career. The first, "if you don't ask, the answer is always no," which encouraged him to be proactive in pursuing opportunities and pushing boundaries. Applying this mindset to work allowed Andy to explore new technological areas and forge collaborations across IAS and MST. The second, “good leaders empower, inspire, and protect those in their charge,” guided his management style. Andy strives to enable his teams to take advantage of opportunities in emerging technical fields, and they continually surpass his expectations with their accomplishments. By focusing on empowerment and inspiration, Andy creates an environment where his team members can thrive and excel.

Outside of work, Andy leads an active and fulfilling life. His wife, Nicole, is in her third year of medical residency in psychiatry, and their children, Kelvin (7) and Tesla (6), just started first and second grade. Andy's upbringing on a small northern California cattle ranch instilled in him a strong work ethic and love for the outdoors. He's an avid endurance athlete, having completed multiple marathons, 110km ultramarathons, and Ironman Triathlons. Always seeking the next challenge, Andy plans to swim across Lake Tahoe as part of a relay team and compete in his first Hyrox event next year. At home, Andy loves involving his family in his passion for engineering and science projects. One beloved family tradition is the increasingly elaborate birthday cakes Andy creates for the kids each year.