AFRL Inspire – 2019
On May 26, 2019 the 4th AFRL Inspire – a celebration of innovative ideas and passionate people – was hosted LIVE from the Dayton Convention Center in Dayton, Ohio. Enjoy the 2019 talks below.
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Tell Your Story: 1st Lt Brennan Taylor inspires the audience to tell their own story.
1st Lt Brennan Taylor is a program manager in AFRL’s Directed Energy Directorate for the Aero-Effects and Beam Control Program, an effort focused on advancing the state of the art in laser weapon enabling technologies. Known for being organized and precise, Taylor enjoys the specificity that comes with budgeting, scheduling and monitoring the technical performance of Laser Control R&D projects. Growing up, he was a teacher’s pet who loved to read. Today, his knack for translating technical jargon into everyday English makes him an excellent spokesperson. In 2018, Taylor received the Civilian Government Officer of the Quarter award and the Director’s Cup as a junior individual. Outside of work, Taylor enjoys cooking and playing Ultimate Frisbee.
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The Impact of Child’s Play – As the threats of the future close in, Amber Anderson shows us how the THOR system can tackle the threat of multiple drone attacks on a secure position.
Amber Anderson: is an engineer and program manager in AFRL’s Directed Energy Directorate for the Tactical High Power Microwave Operational Responder (THOR) system. Anderson and her team are building a rapid prototype for the counter-unmanned aerial systems (UAS) mission. Growing up, she was an energetic child. As an adult, she channels that energy towards interacting with colleagues in an open manner. Known for her sense of humor, Anderson says that being straightforward eliminates ambiguity with respect to decision-making. Incorporating humor allows her to be disarming while ensuring that conversation flows freely. Outside of work, she is usually busy with kids and laundry, but she also enjoys rock climbing.
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Managing a Crisis? There’s an App for That: The ATAK System helps special operations and search and rescue teams track their personnel in dangerous or compromised environments to ensure their safety.
2nd Lt Justin Davis is program manager for AFRL’s Information Directorate. The husband and father-of-two supports the Android Team Awareness Kit (ATAK), a mobile, map-based situational awareness tool. Davis’ job is to support the security forces career field as it integrates ATAK software. He works closely with first responders, both military and civilian, to empower them as they deploy the technology. Growing up, Justin did well in school and enjoyed outdoor activities. Today, his strong communication skills help him to connect with people and understand their needs. Davis, a distinguished graduate of the Officer Training School, was the non-commissioned officer of the year (4th Fighter Wing). In his spare time, he enjoys hunting, ice fishing, camping and coaching little league.
Peter Mozloom is a senior computer scientist and team lead in AFRL’s Information Directorate. He works closely with Android Tactical Assault Kit (ATAK) end users developing secure mobile solutions that provide enhanced situational awareness and increased productivity. From a young age, Mozloom enjoyed taking objects apart, which earned him the nickname “Mr. Gadget.” Today, he remains just as solution-driven and his strong interpersonal skills allow him to interact with people and resolve their problems. Mozloom has received awards for leadership, outstanding team performance and excellence in technology transfer. In his spare time, he enjoys snowmobiling, photography, videography and attending his children’s sporting events.
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Thought for Food: How long can you go without eating? Listen in as Capt Sarah Woody informs you on the importance food has on patients suffering from an injury or illness on transit to a hospital.
Capt Sarah Woody is the deputy course director for the Critical Air Transport (CCAT) initial course in the USAF School of Aerospace Medicine (USAFSAM). Woody, who has extensive experience in austere environments, trains critical care physicians, nurses and respiratory therapists. Growing up, she was a curious child and a quick learner. Today, she finds purpose in teaching and she enjoys the level of intensity associated with the field. Woody is the recipient of the Air Achievement Medal and the Air Terrorism Service Medal. She also received Commendation Medals from the Joint Service, the Air Force and the Army for meritorious service. She describes herself as driven and says she continuously strives for improvement and greater efficiencies. In her spare time, Woody enjoys running marathons and spending time with family.
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Thought Leadership – Proving the Mettle of Hot New Ideas: How can an idea change the world? Listen in on how you can become a thought leader and change what’s possible with Dr. Dan Miracle.
Dan Miracle is a senior scientist in AFRL’s Materials and Manufacturing Directorate and a leading expert on metallurgy and materials science. The self-described perfectionist develops the hottest materials for Air Force turbines, rockets and hypersonic vehicles. Known for his groundbreaking contributions in advanced aerospace metallic materials, Miracle specializes in structural materials with a focus on alloys for high temperature applications. In addition to R&D, Miracle leads technology demonstrations for advanced Air Force applications. He has authored more than 200 peer-reviewed journal articles and received numerous scientific achievement awards. In his free time, Miracle enjoys cycling, fly-fishing, woodworking and photography.