Careers at Safran DSI

Can you describe the work you do at DSI?

I lead business development for telemetry across the U.S. and Canada. My role focuses on supporting government and commercial customers with Safran’s suite of telemetry antennas, receivers, and recorders. I help connect our technical teams with customer mission needs, identify new opportunities, and guide programs from early concept through contract execution. It is a balance of technical understanding, relationship building, and long-term strategy.

How many years of service? What branch?
I spent four years in the U.S. Marine Corps with VMGR-352, the Raiders, at MCAS Miramar in San Diego. I worked as an Avionics Technician on C-130 F and R model aircraft, maintaining their communication and navigation systems. Serving with the Raiders taught me precision, accountability, and how to operate as part of a team that never settles for less than mission success.

What skills did you learn that were transferable to civilian employment?
The Marines taught me precision, accountability, and adaptability. Those lessons carry directly into engineering and business development. Troubleshooting complex avionics systems developed my technical foundation, but more importantly, I learned how to stay calm under pressure, communicate clearly, and find solutions no matter the environment.

As a Veteran, why did you choose Safran DSI as an employer?
I have been using Safran equipment since 2009, back when I designed the Army’s first Installed Systems Test Facility, the Aviation Systems Test and Integration Lab (AvSTIL). Even then, I was impressed with Safran’s reliability and support. Over the years, I saw the company’s commitment to innovation and customer success firsthand. When the opportunity came to join the team, it felt like a natural next step. I already knew the people, the products, and the mission.

Do you feel supported and appreciated as a Veteran here at Safran DSI?
Absolutely. Safran has a culture that values both technical expertise and the discipline veterans bring. We operate lean, and that means every person has to pull their weight. The team understands and respects the mindset that comes from military service, especially when it comes to accountability, reliability, and mission focus. They also recognize how that background helps us connect with our customers and understand the environments they work in. There is a real sense of mutual respect here that makes you feel valued, not just for your role, but for who you are and where you come from.

Can you tell us about how you are able to continue to serve the Military (indirectly) in your current role?
That is one of the most rewarding parts of the job. While I am no longer in uniform, I am still contributing to the mission by helping bring DoD and commercial aviation assets forward to production and keeping my friends and family safe while doing it. I have been part of the flight test community here in Huntsville since 2009, and many of the people who work at this range and others are friends and family. Telemetry is a small community, and most of us who grow up in it move around and stay connected.

If our equipment can make testing safer, then I am all for it. I want to see the US continue to grow its aviation RDT&E capability, and by being at Safran, I get to participate in that growth. I get to see customers’ new systems before almost anyone else, help provide solutions to test them, and in many cases support the integration and buildout of the infrastructure needed to make those missions possible. There are not many places that offer that kind of opportunity.

What is your favorite aspect of your job?
Being part of something that contributes to safety and progress. Knowing that what we do at Safran helps test pilots, engineers, and service members accomplish their missions safely means a lot to me. I also enjoy working with people who share that same sense of purpose and pride in what they do. Every day brings a new challenge and another chance to make a difference.

What motivated you to serve in the military?
Service runs in my family. My father joined the New York State Police Department at 18, and I wanted to challenge myself in the same way. The Marine Corps offered structure, purpose, and the chance to do things that fascinated me. It was a great way to grow up fast, learn discipline and accountability, and be part of something bigger than myself.

In your opinion, what do veterans bring to the workplace?
Veterans bring a mission-first mindset, but the two qualities that stand out most are accountability and integrity. Veterans take ownership of everything they do or do not do, and that sense of responsibility is the foundation of trust. When something goes wrong, they do not look for excuses or someone else to blame; they assess what could have been done better and take steps to fix it. That kind of ownership is what drives progress in any organization.

Integrity is equally important. Veterans hold themselves to a standard even when no one is watching. They do not cut corners or compromise their values, and that consistency builds credibility across teams and customers.

Finally, veterans understand that leadership is not about rank; it is about responsibility. They are not afraid to speak up, challenge assumptions, and offer solutions, always with professionalism and respect. They know that strong teams are built on trust, communication, and accountability at every level. That mindset strengthens any organization they join and inspires those around them to do the same.