Product Support Delta Course 2024 - Lesson 3 - Data Revolution - Unleashing the Power of Data, Analytics and AI webinar

Mr. Calvin Farmer currently serves as the Analytics Group Head for Commander, Fleet Readiness Centers (COMFRC), Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR).  In this position, he leads a team of analysts also charged with developing innovative analytical products that help COMFRC leadership make informed decisions with respect to business operations.  This includes building the high level KPI dashboard and creating alignment with NAVAIR metrics. 

Calvin Farmer is a native of Norwood, New York.  He is a 2004 graduate of the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Applied Mathematics.  He has since earned a Master of Science degree in Systems Engineering from Johns Hopkins University.  In 2008, Mr. Farmer was awarded the Fliedner Award in recognition of his contribution to Naval Aviation propulsion and power.  In 2014, he was awarded the 2014 Michael G. Simodejka Outstanding Logistics Manager Award.  Calvin married in 2021 and has two children, Noah (8) and Scout (2).  

Ms. Rhonda Maus is a Professor of Software Engineering at the Defense Acquisition University (DAU). In this position, she is responsible for teaching and assisting DOD professionals in the areas of Artificial Intelligence, Agile, Software Engineering, Cybersecurity, and DevSecOps. Having spent 27-years as a military brat and spouse, Rhonda is proud to serve through DAU and is honored to offer over 30-years of private-sector software and emerging technology experience to help the warfighter.

Mrs. Melany Richards is the Analysis Branch Chief, Enterprise Management Division, Logistics Directorate, Air Force Life Cycle Management Center, Air Force Material Command, Wright-Patterson Air  Force Base, Ohio. Through her integration and structuring of Air Force (AF) data, Mrs. Richards is trailblazing advanced analytics. Her leadership of the Data Analytics Resource Team (DART) has provided support through automated Enterprise capabilities directly supporting National Defense Strategy (NDS), AFLCMC’s Strategic Plan and Integrated Product Support. Her capabilities provide the AF a conservative annual cost avoidance estimate of $24M in automation alone with the ability to exponentially grow those savings. Her efforts are foundational to improving aircraft availability, supporting the Great Power Competition, enabling Financial Improvement and Audit Remediation (FIAR), and empowering the AF on its Intellectual Property Rights. 
 

Mr. Jeffrey R. Witsken currently serves as the Director, Command and Control Integration, Mission Command Center of Excellence, Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. 

His organization integrates Command and Control DOTMLPF-P across doctrine, education, force modernization, lessons learned, and training efforts.  Additionally, it executes Force Modernization Proponent responsibilities for Command and Control, Data and Analytics, Mission Command, Mission Partner Environment, and Unified Action Partner Interoperability. It also facilitates DOTMLPF-P for Software and Artificial Intelligence Operations. 

Mr. Witsken, a native of Cincinnati, Ohio, was commissioned as an Armor officer from Xavier University in 1981.  His service includes key assignments in armor units, cavalry units, and operations research organizations.  He was the Chief of Assessments, Strategic Effects, Multi-National Forces Iraq before and during the ‘surge’ in Iraq 2006-2007.  His experience with information technology and its implications for mission command include the 1994 Desert Hammer exercise, the 2001 Desert Capstone Exercise, the Army’s transformation to the Modular Force (2003-2005), concepts and assessments for Cyberspace and Electronic Warfare (2010-11), and efforts to develop and deliver the Army’s Command and Control system (2011-present).