Monday, 17 June 2024
17:30 - 19:00
“Redundancy from the Sea Floor to Space: Building Reliable Capabilities for the Joint Force”
Ms. Heidi Shyu
Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering (OUSD(R&E))
Abstract: Microelectronics form the backbone of modern electronic systems, essential for both military and commercial applications. However, challenges such as diminishing domestic manufacturing and supply chain vulnerabilities have underscored national security risks. In response, the Department of Defense (DoD) is collaborating with industry and academia to ensure secure and robust sources of microelectronics. Leveraging cutting-edge commercial developments, the DoD aims to bolster defense microelectronic solutions. Furthermore, the DoD is spearheading FutureG, a suite of advanced wireless network technologies, in partnership with commercial entities. This initiative not only supports military operations but also contributes to maintaining a free and open internet. As Fifth Generation (5G) technology evolves, FutureG will provide innovative solutions, guiding future standards and cementing U.S. leadership in information technology.
In an address delivered by The Honorable Heidi Shyu, Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering, the importance of wideband sensors in highly contested environments will be discussed as will how the DoD is prioritizing the development of multifunctional sensors capable of addressing cyber, electronic warfare, radar, and communication threats. Shyu will argue this integrated approach, from the ocean floor to space, will ensure reliability, adaptability, and superiority for the joint force in confronting advanced adversaries.
Speaker Bio: Ms. Heidi Shyu is the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering (OUSD(R&E)). In this role, she serves as the Chief Technology Officer for the Department of Defense (DoD), mandated with ensuring the technological superiority of the U.S. military, and is responsible for the research, development, and prototyping activities across the DoD enterprise. She also oversees the activities of the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), the Missile Defense Agency (MDA), the DoD Laboratory and Engineering Center enterprise, and the Under Secretariat staff focused on developing advanced technology and capability for the U.S. military.
Previously, she served as the Assistant Secretary of the Army for Acquisition, Logistics and Technology (ASA (ALT)), from September 2012 to January 2016. Prior to this, she was Acting ASA (ALT) beginning in June 2011 and appointed the Principal Deputy in November 2010. As the ASA (ALT), she served as the Army Acquisition Executive, the Senior Procurement Executive, the Science Advisor to the Secretary of the Army, and the Army’s Senior Research and Development official. She had principal responsibility for all Department of the Army matters related to logistics. Ms. Shyu also led the execution of the Army’s acquisition function and the acquisition management system. Her responsibilities included providing oversight for the life cycle management and sustainment of Army weapons systems and equipment from research and development through test and evaluation, acquisition, logistics, fielding, and disposition.
Prior to her government service, Ms. Shyu was the Vice President of Technology Strategy for Raytheon Company’s Space and Airborne Systems.
Ms. Shyu holds a Bachelor of Science in mathematics from the University of Brunswick in Canada, a Master of Science degree in mathematics from the University of Toronto, and a Master of Science degree in Electrical Engineering with a focus on System Sciences along with the Engineer’s Degree from UCLA. She received an Honorary Doctorate of Science from the University of New Brunswick. She is also a graduate of the UCLA Executive Management Course Program.
A member of the Air Force Scientific Advisory Board from 2000 to 2010, she served as the Vice Chair from 2003 to 2005 and Chair from 2005 to 2008. Ms. Shyu is a member of the National Academy of Engineering and an American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) Honorary Fellow.