DJ Akers

Research Engineer, GTRI
“Panel: Digitally Transforming the Test and Evaluation Landscape”

Session Recording: Link

Speaker Bio: 

DJ is a passionate Research Engineer I in the Digital Engineering Threads and Environments Branch at GTRI (Georgia Tech Research Institute). He earned his Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering from Georgia Tech in December 2021 and joined GTRI as a full-time Model-Based Systems Engineer in January 2022. Recently, he has also earned a Master’s degree in Systems Engineering from Georgia Tech, further broadening his expertise in the field. Currently, DJ is a Growing Contributor supporting a diverse range of projects, where he specializes in applying the Systems Modeling Language (SysML) using the Cameo Systems Modeler (CSM) authoring tool. Additionally, he develops innovative tools and integrations leveraging the OpenAPI specification, pushing the boundaries of digital engineering capabilities. DJ’s primary research interests include harnessing digital engineering threads for advanced decision analysis, applying digital engineering practices to modernize legacy programs, and exploring the integration of human-centered design methodologies with formal systems engineering practices. His work reflects a strong focus on bridging cutting-edge technical tools with impactful solutions for complex engineering challenges. In his role, DJ remains committed to driving innovation and collaboration in the digital engineering space to support the next generation of systems engineering methodologies.

Abstract: 

Since the publication of the United States Department of Defense Digital Engineering (DE) Strategy in 2018 the Department, the services, and the supporting industrial base have been working to integrate digital engineering tooling that capture the designs of the complex weapon systems that the uniformed and civilian workforce depend upon to serve the nation. Innovation of digital engineering methods have advanced rapidly for system design, hardware and software design, modeling and simulation, and ultimately test and evaluation to ensure that systems are delivered rapidly with the most advanced capability. To no great surprise parallel development has led to a diverse set of products, data structures, and methods that don’t necessarily integrate. In an effort to maximize efficiency a team form Developmental Test, Evaluation, and Accreditation, Director, Operational Test and Evaluation, and university researchers from the Acquisition Innovation Research Center joined forces to mature tools and methods in support of advancing Test and Evaluation which will work seamlessly together to help ensure the realization of the DE Strategy. A panel of experts/practitioners from these organizations will host a panel discussion describing their work, the results, the benefits, and some of the struggles that they have faced in pursuit of the Department’s objectives.