EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

President, Dustin Robinson
Vice President, Nicolas Mouriski
Secretary, Ryan Selph
Treasurer, Jeffrey Miller

RECAP OF LUNCHEON WITH GUEST SPEAKER

On December 11, the newly revived ITEA Chapter 1 of Southern Maryland hosted guest speaker Mr. Carroll P. “Rick” Quade, Director of Operational Test and Evaluation, at their latest quarterly luncheon. Mr. Quade serves as the senior policy advisor to the Secretary of Defense on the testing of DOD weapon systems and is responsible for the development and implementation of T&E policies and procedures that support acquisition program planning and execution, including the conduct of operational and live-fire test and evaluation. He is the resource sponsor for T&E investment accounts that have an annual budget of over $500M.

Having started his career in 1994 at NAS Patuxent River, he is no stranger to the area and drew in a large audience for this unique opportunity to hear from a senior T&E executive. Mr. Quade has held various positions at Pax, including Atlantic Targets and Marine Operations Division Head, AIRSpeed Deployment Champion, and project engineer supporting a number of programs. He also served as program manager of the Navy Major Range and Test Facility Base that funds the sustainment of critical Navy T&E ranges and laboratories.

As a very direct and transparent leader, Mr. Quade provided insight and his perspective on changes he has implemented since assuming his role at the Office of the Director, Operational Test and Evaluation, stating we needed to “reimagine, modernize and adapt.” He reported on developing accelerated pathways to increase operational speed and agility, resulting in positive outcomes for operational T&E and the warfighter, and concluded with, “I believe we are doing the right thing.” He assured the audience that critical and important areas were being addressed and processes improved.

For more questions or information, reach out to Chapter 1 officers at chapter1@itea.org.