AAV Upgrade
As Lead Human Factors Engineer on the Assault Amphibious Vehicle (AAV) modernization initiative, I was responsible for transforming legacy analog instrumentation into a streamlined, digital console interface for the U.S. Marine Corps. This effort marked the first significant update to the AAV’s control system since its introduction in the 1970s.
To ensure a deep understanding of the vehicle’s operational context, I completed hands-on training in AAV operation and maintenance. This immersive experience allowed me to conduct in-depth interviews with active-duty Marines and collaborate closely with systems engineers responsible for the vehicle’s electronic upgrades. Through this work, I gained critical insight into the platform’s constraints and capabilities, enabling me to design a user interface that prioritized clarity, ergonomics, and mission-readiness.
This project sharpened my ability to translate complex technical systems into intuitive, high-stakes interfaces—an approach that continues to inform my UX leadership in enterprise and defense-adjacent environments
Mine Detection
As an Assistant Human Factors Engineer at the Naval Surface Warfare Center Panama City Division (NSWC PCD), I contributed to the evaluation and selection of advanced mine detection technologies for the U.S. Navy’s Mine Countermeasure (MCM) Mission Packages. My work focused on understanding how real users—soldiers in high-stakes environments—interacted with complex detection systems.
I led field usability testing of multiple mine detector models, conducting multi-week outdoor trials to assess detection accuracy, ergonomic performance, and battery life. I facilitated post-test surveys and synthesized qualitative and quantitative data to inform procurement decisions. This experience deepened my expertise in user-centered research, systems-level evaluation, and designing for mission-critical environments—skills that continue to shape my approach to UX design today.
Surgery at Sea
As a Human Factors Engineer supporting the Human Systems Integration (HSI) team, I contributed to a critical research initiative evaluating the feasibility of performing emergency surgeries aboard naval vessels under high sea states.
To simulate real-world conditions, we collected motion data from a catamaran outfitted with specialized sensors, then used that data to replicate sea-state movement in a custom-built operating room. Over a two-month period, trained Navy surgeons performed simulated procedures on test dummies across varying sea conditions.
I led the design and execution of a comprehensive human performance study, which included pre- and post-surgery surveys, EEG monitoring, and behavioral observations. A civilian surgeon also assessed surgical outcomes to provide an external benchmark. This work deepened my expertise in high-stakes usability testing, physiological data analysis, and designing for extreme environments—skills that continue to inform my user-centered approach to complex system design.