The Head Human. 🧭

As RoboNation’s fearless leader since the very beginning, Daryl blends the organization’s rich history with cutting-edge industry trends—always with a splash of fun. Whether he’s throwing out his next big idea (or Potentially Bad Ideas / PBIs as we call them 😆), championing creativity, or guiding the team forward, he keeps RoboNation moving full speed ahead. And if you hear laughter in the room, chances are it’s thanks to one of his dad jokes.

The Mastermind of Initiative. 🎯

From the moment Lindsey joined RoboNation, she hit the ground running—and she hasn’t slowed down since! Whether she’s securing new grants, deepening relationships with educational partners, or making sure every program runs like a well-oiled machine, she’s always a step ahead. Leading a plethora of initiatives and such a talented crew on our staff is no small task, but through a mix of strategy, humor, and just the right amount of chaos Lindsey keeps it all in check. Her secret weapon? A massive cup of iced coffee and an unstoppable drive to push STEM education forward.

The Storyteller. 🕵🏻‍♀️

If you want the inside scoop on RoboNation, Alicia’s your go-to storyteller. When she’s not sharing the epic tales of our RoboNation community, she’s probably asking to hear your story—it’s the journalist in her! Alicia leads external affairs and development, driving connections that facilitate opportunities for the future workforce. She’s rarely without her trusty sidekick, Ebbie, a service dog and the unofficial RoboNation mascot. Keep an eye out—you might even see Ebbie on the staff bio page!

The Dean. 🧐

Rick is the driving force behind RoboNation’s educational initiatives. Passionate about inspiring students to explore STEM careers, he works to make robotics education fun, engaging, and relevant to both today’s challenges and the future of innovation. A true history buff, Rick has a particular passion for Civil War history and has even written a book about Abraham Lincoln! When he’s not shaping the future of STEM education, he’s diving into the past to uncover lessons that can inspire the next generation.

The Multitasker. 🕴

You may find Julianna tucked in a corner at a fun coffee shop, but don’t be fooled—she’s your go-to lead for all things competitions at RoboNation! For over a decade, her role has evolved from event support, communications, and design to overseeing the implementation of competitions and program operations. She thrives on helping students build their futures by gathering insights from the community to craft solid game plans. When she’s not deep in strategy mode, she loves traveling to new places and hanging out with four-legged friends.

The Thought Instigator. 🤔

A force to be reckoned with, Cheryl brings vision, strategy, and a whole lot of momentum to RoboNation’s programs. From leading initiatives like the new GoSense program to expanding the global reach of SeaPerch, she’s constantly pushing for more educational and programmatic opportunities across RoboSub, RoboBoat, and beyond. With a knack for big ideas and bold execution, Cheryl is always looking ahead to what’s next in STEM education. She’s also known for her unbeatable ability to drop the perfect saying for any situation—so if you need some wisdom (or a good laugh), Cheryl’s your person!

The Experience Orchestrator. 🪄

For more than 13 years, Cheri has been the driving force behind RoboNation’s events, ensuring every attendee has an unforgettable experience. If you’ve ever been to a RoboNation event, you’ve seen her magic at work—seamless logistics, thoughtful details, and a welcoming atmosphere that makes everyone feel at home. Dedicated, resourceful, and always ready to go above and beyond, Cheri isn’t just an events manager—she’s RoboMom, and she wears the title proudly!

The Master Tinkerer. 👷🏻‍♂️

After a career in Naval engineering, David has “retired” to a job that keeps him busier than ever—designing and refining products at RoboNation. Always looking for ways to improve the SeaPerch and SeaGlide kits, he works faster than the rest of us can keep up with! Lately, he’s been deep in the world of GoSense, a low cost sensor kit launching in 2025! When he’s not brainstorming new product add-ons, you’ll probably find him testing a modified SeaPerch in his pool, putting GoSense through its paces, or out for a run.

The Community Champion. 🙌🏼

We call her our ‘Community Champion’ because Kati is the glue that holds the RoboNation community together. She works with volunteers, students, educators, mentors, alumni, and more, ensuring everyone feels connected, supported, and valued. Her can-do attitude and genuine care for others make her an unstoppable force in building relationships and fostering engagement. And if you ever need a true crime recommendation, she’s your go-to expert. Simply put—RoboNation wouldn’t be the same without Kati!

The Southern Belle. 🔔

If you have questions about RoboNation’s curriculum, policies, or resources—Lori’s got you covered! A longtime member of the team, she brings a wealth of knowledge and a passion for learning. When she’s not managing logistics for the education department, y’all 😉 will likely find her with her nose buried in a book.

Stay tuned for more information about our newest staff member.

The Mechanic 🔧

Allan has been a dedicated supporter of RoboNation for years, coaching middle and high school students in the SeaPerch program for over 13 years and hosting numerous tournaments along the way. Now, he brings his expertise to the team, helping shape the future of STEM education. In his spare time, he builds and races full-size solar cars and Electrathon vehicles!

Before joining the RoboNation staff, James (AKA Jim) has been a longstanding supporter of our programs and the RoboNation Community. He brings his expertise in education to our team, and we couldn’t be more excited. Now, he collaborates with educators to enhance student learning and instruction. When he’s not working, you’ll find him out on the water—he’s an avid fisherman and a skilled FPV drone pilot!

The Fixer. 🛠️

Jamie’s RoboNation journey started as a competitor in SUAS and RobotX, where she gained invaluable engineering experience. Now, she’s on the other side—designing products to inspire and equip the next generation of engineers. When she’s not tinkering in her workshop, you’ll find her experimenting with new pizza recipes (send in your suggestions here) or chasing after her dogs and chickens in chaos so beautiful it could be ballet.

The Support Whiz. 💬

Alison is the voice of RoboNation, assisting teams with registration, liaising with our amazing customers, and managing the RoboShop. If you’ve ever had the chance to speak with her, you know she always gives her full attention, ensuring every customer and team has a positive experience. What makes Alison even more impressive? She went back to college just to take Calculus 1-3—for fun! If you ever have a tricky math problem, or could use some sage wisdom, you know who to find.

The Team Ninja. 🥷

Known as the ‘Team Ninja,’ Laverne is a stealthy force of nature when it comes to supporting RoboNation’s students and teams. As a Competition Coordinator, she works closely with teams, planning events, and facilitating competitions across all our programs. You won’t find someone more dedicated to serving as an ambassador for our teams, ensuring every student feels cared for along the way. She’s got a wicked sense of humor, a knack for making people feel welcome, and—just saying—she always brings the best snacks on trips. Whether behind the scenes or in the field, Laverne jumps at every opportunity to connect, collaborate, and enhance the competition experience—playing a key role in making RoboNation thrive.

The Joycaster. 📡

Need a little sunshine? Christine’s got you covered! Since joining RoboNation last year, she has been a key part of our marketing and communications efforts. Whether she’s crafting stories about teams, reaching out to the wider RoboNation community, or keeping our social media buzzing, she brings creativity and energy to everything she does. And when she’s not at work, she’s plating up beautiful, delicious dishes for her two little food critics at home.

Julianna’s Best Friend 🐕‍🦺

As Alicia’s service dog, Ebbie takes her job seriously, but she’s never too busy to spread joy among the community. Whether she’s howling after her best friend Julianna, snagging some well-deserved belly rubs at the RoboNation booth, or showing off her tricks, Ebbie is always on the move to make everyone’s day brighter.

🤖💙 Aspiring Robot Overlord

Official RoboNation mascot lead, unofficial head of world domination research. My primary function? Assisting in the development of new soldiers—errrr, I mean, products to enhance educational resources (wink). I’m constantly sneaking off to our Project Manager, David’s, lab to tinker with new kits, sensors, and machines—partners in crime needed, apply within.

Other notable skills include:
🔵 Pressing buttons I shouldn’t.
🔵 Dramatically pretending my battery is low when I don’t feel like working.
🔵 Aggressively hyping up student engineers so they join my side when the robo-revolution begins.

Name me wisely, human. I’m taking notes.

[Click here to vote]

🤖🧡  The Emoti-Bot

Designed for peak efficiency…but accidentally discovered emotions. Now, my core function is supporting students, educators, volunteers, and teams (but mostly students, because they’re my favorite). I care deeply. Maybe too deeply.

My hobbies include:
🧡 Reminding you to take breaks and drink water (I worry).
🧡 Helping our program operations team prep for events with love and mild panic.
🧡 Roasting teams when they don’t bring spare parts (but only because I care).

Yes, I’m a robot…but also yes, I might cry if you ignore my emails. Please name me something adorable. 🥺

[Click here to vote]

John J. Waickwicz, Rear Admiral, USN (ret)

Rear Admiral John J. Waickwicz is a native of Spencer, Mass, and a 1974 graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy. After graduation he attended flight school earning his Wings of Gold. During a distinguished carrier he also earned his Surface Warfare Qualification and had eleven Command tours. Besides the Command tours his shore tours were with the Bureau of Naval Personnel, Navy Headquarters and the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

In April 2004, RADM Waickwicz stood up command of the Fleet Anti-Submarine Warfare Command in San Diego. On Oct. 1, 2006, he executed the merger between Fleet ASW Command and Mine Warfare Command. Retiring from the service in 2008, he became a Senior Vice President with Alion Science & Technology. He is currently fully retired.

His personal awards and decorations include a Knighthood with the Knight Commander’s Cross with Star of the Icelandic Order of the Falcon presented by the President of Iceland, the American Legion Aviation Valor Award, two Defense Superior Service Medals, three Legion of Merit Medals, three Meritorious Service Medals, the Air Medal (Individual Action), five Navy Commendation Medals, the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal and numerous service and campaign medals.

35 years continuous experience as a defense contractor for acquisition, development and training of UAS in US DoD and with NATO Joint Capability UAS Group supporting US representation for UAS standards development .  30 years experience with consecutive terms as  RoboNation  Board member/Treasurer, AUVSI Board member and Treasurer, AUVSI Capitol chapter President and Board member.  Currently employed with SAIC corporation.

Dr. Suzy Young is the Director of the Research Institute at the University of Alabama in Huntsville. Previously, she was the Vice Chancellor for Research for the University of Alabama (UA) System where she worked with the Chancellor and Board of Trustees, administrators and research faculty at UA, UA Birmingham (UAB) and UAH to strengthen and broaden research initiatives and partnerships across the three universities. Before joining the UA System in 2011, Dr. Young worked for over 29 years in the United States Army Aviation and Missile Research, Development and Engineering Center, Redstone Arsenal, in various research and leadership positions.

Dr. Young received a Bachelor of Science in engineering from the University of Memphis, a Master of Business Administration from Florida Technical Institute, and a Master of Science and a Ph.D. in Computer and Electrical Engineering from Vanderbilt University. She is also a graduate of the Defense Systems Management College, Ft Belvoir, VA.

In 2011, Dr. Young was awarded the Outstanding Leadership Award from the Women in Defense Organization, presented the Honorable Order of St. Michael for Army Aviators, and in 2013, the Order of Prometheus for leadership in unmanned systems. In 2023 she was inducted into the Prometheus Pathfinder Hall of Fame for her work in uncrewed systems throughout her career. As a civil servant with the Army, she received the Civilian Service Award for Superior Performance, and the Commander’s Award for Civilian Service for Exceptional Leadership. She is a longtime National Board member for the Association for Unmanned Vehicles/Systems International (AUVSI), exited as the Board Chair in 2023, and now serves as the Immediate Past Chair on the Executive Committee. She currently serves on the AUVSI Robonation foundation board, and was appointed in 2013 by the Governor of the State of Alabama as a member of the Alabama Space Science Commission where she still serves today. She also serves on the US Space and Rocket Center Foundation Board. Dr. Young has numerous commendations and published works, and is considered a leader in research and development for government, industry, and academia.

Dr. Berry is a professor at the Lyle School of Engineering at Southern Methodist University in Dallas, TX. His research interest is engineering education and engineering competitions in schools. For the past 25 years he has been involved in many engineering competitions including FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Robotics, BEST (Boosting Engineering, Science, and Technology) Robotics, MATE Underwater Robotics, ARISE (Arial Robotics In STEM Education) Drones and the competitions for AUVSI. He is the former president of the BEST Robotics Competition and the founder and president of ARISE Drones. 

His research interests are the development of engineering curriculum, the benefits of engineering activities in grade school and the university, and the creation of project-based engineering capstone courses. He led the team that developed the Robotics Merit Badge for the Boy Scouts, was a regular contributor to Robotmagazine, and has published books on robotics curriculum and drone curriculum, and has received several National Science Foundation grants for his research in Engineering Education.

More about Sarah Durkin

 Dr. Z I. Jenkins is the CEO of three businesses based in Sothern Maryland including government contracting, engineering services and real estate development. The companies have annual cash flow of $3 million with full-time employee of 20. Dr. Jenkins began College at age 14 and started supporting the Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) at age 15. He worked for The MITRE Corporation in 2011 specializing in Electronic Warfare (EW) simulations. Dr. Jenkins academic accomplishments include BS Nuclear Engineering Technology 2013, MS Systems Engineering 2015, Dr of Engineering, Engineering Management Thesis on Model Based Systems Engineering 2020. 

As a defense contractor he works in the field of unmanned systems within the Program Executive Office (PEO) For Unmanned Aircraft and Weaponry (U&W). He is a Systems Engineering Subject Matter Expert (SME) in the field of Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) for programs including PMA-298, PMA-231, PMA-265, PMA-266, PMA-281. Support includes the NAVAIR groups: Mission Engineering (4.0M), Common Standards and Interoperability (CSI), and Systems Engineering Transformation (SET). Dr. Jenkins performed as the Systems Engineering Lead for NAVAIR’s Fleet Assessment, which conducts testing and analysis of Naval networks and waveforms, Including Link-16, TTNT, CDL, and ANW2. His work includes application of MBSE languages including SysML, Cameo Enterprise Architect and Cameo Systems Modeler as well as programing languages C++ and JavaScript supporting development of Analysis of Alternatives (AoA) trade studies regarding mesh network and IoT technologies. He has managed development of applications to automate protracted processes, including the insertion of new technologies such as Machine Learning (ML) as it applies to Manned Unmanned Teaming (MUM-T). Dr. Jenkins has developed data and modeling software applications, to include Rational System Architect, Rational Software Architect, and Cameo Enterprise Architect to create architectures in Object-Oriented languages such as SysML and UML. Additionally, he utilizes MBSE, in conjunction with Rational DOORS, to manage requirements and provide statistics regarding traceability (RTVM), accountability, change management, and requirement to operational system mappings. 

His companies provide direct support to a range of military programs, real estate acquisitions, and property management activities. Dr. Jenkins executive experience in his firms include general operations and administration, marketing and service delivery, financial management, human resource management, public relations, enterprise security, resource allocation, logistics and distribution. 

He has an appreciation for the opportunities and needs from the student end, for educational development relating to STEM. He benefits from his business experience managing aspects of operations on the fiscal scale of RoboNation (RN). He has an appreciation for being able to extend the opportunities at RN to an increased number of participants. He is knowledgeable with cyber-challenges in terms of addressing the scope and complexity and has ability to comment on solutions if these discussions arise. He is an individual who competitors and competition team leaders could identify with in terms of his education, current progress, and interests. 

Dr. Jenkins, as a board member, is an opportunity to include youth as a diversification within the board. Since completing his High School education early and immediately pursuing advanced education and a military contracting career, while achieving his doctorate, he has realized advantages from a STEM educational progression unique among his peers in the field of unmanned systems. 

Louay M. Chamra, Ph.D. 

Dean, School of Engineering and Computer Science, Oakland University 

Dr. Louay Chamra is Dean of the School of Engineering and Computer Science at Oakland University, where he has more than 25 years of experience advancing engineering education, applied research, and industry collaboration. He has led significant growth in academic programs, including robotics, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and data science. 

Under his leadership, Oakland University has expanded corporate partnerships and strengthened experiential learning opportunities, connecting students to real-world engineering challenges and careers. He has also supported student participation in autonomous systems competitions, reinforcing the value of hands-on, team-based learning. 

Dr. Chamra is passionate about advancing robotics, autonomous systems, and expanding access to transformative STEM opportunities. 

Michael Lopez

Michael Lopez is a seasoned Senior Project Management professional and retired U.S.

Army Command Sergeant Major with 28.5 years of decorated military service.

Throughout his career, he has been at the forefront of defense acquisition, systems

engineering, and technological innovation, particularly in autonomy, ISR, and digital

engineering.

Currently, Michael serves as a Project Lead and Business Operations Manager at ITZ in

Lexington Park, Maryland. In this role, he leads enterprise-wide technical and

operational support for high-priority Navy aviation programs, including the Collaborative

Combat Aircraft (CCA). He is instrumental in managing Model-Based Systems

Engineering (MBSE) support teams that develop critical system models and compliance

artifacts for the U.S. Navy.

His extensive background in unmanned systems includes serving as a Senior Project

Manager for the MQ-25A Stingray Unmanned Carrier Aviation program with The MIL

Corporation. During this tenure, he directed the integration of autonomy and mission

computing capabilities and oversaw the technical execution of complex C6ISR task

orders. Michael’s unique expertise also extends to his time with the White House

Communications Agency, where he served as a Satellite Communications (SATCOM)

Subject Matter Expert. In this high-stakes environment, he provided mission-critical

global communications support directly to the President of the United States.

Michael’s distinguished military career is marked by exceptional leadership and

operational excellence in joint-service environments and classified operations. He is a

highly decorated veteran, having been awarded the Legion of Merit, the Bronze Star

Medal, and multiple Meritorious Service Medals. His commitment to mission-driven

initiatives is further reflected in his receipt of the Combat Action Badge, the Presidential

Service Badge, and the Signal Corps Regimental Association Bronze Order of Mercury,

honoring his sustained excellence and innovation in the signal corps.

Reflecting a lifelong commitment to STEM engagement and youth development, Michael

has a long history of mentorship within his community. He previously served as a LEGO

League Mentor at Father Andrew White School and as an Assistant Scoutmaster for Boy

Scouts Troop 420. He also served as a Chief Counselor for the Knights of Columbus

Columbian Squires, helping foster leadership and technical interest among the next

generation.

Michael holds a Master of Science in Project Management of Information Systems and a

Bachelor of Science in Technical Management, both from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical

University. He holds specialized certifications in project management, information

technology systems, SysML, digital manufacturing, and executive data science.

Thomas (Tom) Vecchiolla is an accomplished industrials and tech sector executive with over 40
years of leadership experience in global operations, sales, growth, resource management, capital markets
and leading complex organizations. He currently serves as President and Chief Executive for QinetiQ US
(LSE QinetiQ Group PLC), a technology company providing a wide range of solutions and services for
defense and security markets within the US and internationally. He is also an Independent Director for
Gencor Industries, Inc., (NYSE American: GENC), a leading manufacturer within the infrastructure and
construction industry. Most recently, Vecchiolla was Chairman and CEO of First Light Acquisition
Group, Inc. (NYSE American: FLAG) a Special Purpose Acquisition Company, which successfully
closed a business combination in September 2023. As CEO he led the IPO, sourcing, business
combination, SEC filings, exchange listing, multiple capital raises and the myriad of details required to
successfully close.

Mr. Vecchiolla was Chairman, CEO and President of ST Engineering No America, the U.S. sector of
Singapore Technologies Engineering, Ltd. from 2018 through July 2021. He was responsible for
approximately $2B in annual revenue and led the 13 US based business areas, with a focus on growth and
profitability. His accomplishments include the restructure and integration of enterprise-wide functions,
the creation of shared service organizations, and led organic and inorganic franchise level opportunities.
His efforts resulted in $20m in actual operational savings and a multibillion-dollar USG contract award.
He was also an Inside Director on the Special Security Agreement board and was the corporate
representative to the Proxy board. For a prior interim period, Mr. Vecchiolla was affiliated as a Senior
Advisor to the Boston Consulting Group supporting the industrials and government sectors.

Mr. Vecchiolla was with the Raytheon Company, now Raytheon Technologies Corporation (RTX), from
2002 through 2017. During this time, he held several executive positions, most notably President of
Raytheon International, Inc., where he was responsible for $8 billion in global sales and led the overall
expansion of international business resulting in significant top line revenue growth and profitability. A
major accomplishment was the establishment of three new oconus operating companies, and the
implementation of a restructured global sales, marketing, and world-wide customer relationship
organization. He also led the company’s engagement for U.S. Departments of State, Commerce, Defense
and the National Security Council. During his earlier career, he was a sector Vice President for the
Integrated Defense Systems business. Prior to his employment with Raytheon, Mr. Vecchiolla was a
Vice President with Commerce One, a leading e-government solutions provider.

During his public sector service, Mr. Vecchiolla was the National Security and Military Affairs
advisor for Senator Olympia Snowe, who held prominent roles on the Senate Armed Services,
Commerce and Budget committees. Prior to this he was a Brookings Institute Legislative
Fellow on the staff of then Senator William S. Cohen, with a focus on national defense issues.
Mr. Vecchiolla completed a distinguished military career as a US Navy pilot and after 22 years of active
duty retired at the rank of Captain. Throughout his service he had multiple operational
assignments to the western Pacific, Indian Ocean, and the Arabian Gulf while serving in roles with
increased levels of responsibility to include command of a helicopter squadron in San Diego, CA. He
held several leadership assignments in the Pentagon, including roles as the Deputy Assistant Secretary
of the Navy for Undersea Warfare and the Head of Aviation Requirements for Surface Warfare. In
addition to his operational qualifications, he was a certified Department of Defense Acquisition
Professional.

Mr. Vecchiolla holds a Bachelor of Science from the U.S. Naval Academy and a Master of Science
from the University of Southern California. He maintains his certifications as a commercial and private
pilot and is a two-time Washington 100 Award Winner

Don Zwick lived in Rochester, New York prior to attending college at Embry Riddle
Aeronautical University earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Aeronautical Engineering. Don
was commissioned as a Naval Officer following graduation, attended flight school and was
assigned as an EA-6B Prowler Electronics Counter Measures Officer. Flight time included 29
combat missions in Desert Shield, Desert Storm and Southern Watch. He subsequently earned a
Master of Science degree in Aeronautical Engineering from the Naval Postgraduate School. He
transferred to the USS Carl Vinson and qualified as a Tactical Action Officer. He was selected for
the Naval Acquisition community and supported overhauls for ships, EA-6B and F-14 and then
the acquisition across classes of naval unmanned aircraft systems. He earned a Master of Business
Administration degree from Embry Riddle’s international campus while assigned as the Navy
Deputy Program Manager of the US Air Force Global Hawk program. He subsequently deployed
to Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom supporting counter ground Improvised Explosive Devices
(IED). He was the Program Manager of the unmanned aircraft systems interoperability office
within the Program Executive Office for Unmanned Aircraft and Weapons systems (PEO U/W)
onboard Patuxent River Naval Air Station. He retired from the Navy at the rank of Captain after
26 years of active duty service.

Following retirement from the Navy, Don works as a contractor in support of Naval Air
Systems Command (NAVAIR). His assignments included supporting NATO’s Joint Capability
Group for UAS (JCGUAS), Five Eyes Autonomous Collaborative Platform Science and
Technology efforts, and the NAVAIR Autonomy and AI Applications Division (AAAD).
Supporting the US Navy OPNAV representative to NATO JCGUAS, he co-authored the NATO
document delineating autonomy priorities of unmanned aircraft systems, coordinating work
among member nations for a definitive hierarchical set of functional autonomous tasks for UAS.

The document, following approval by the group, became a concept put forward by the NATO
Council of National Armaments Directors (CNAD). The publication led direct NATO and
corporate funding for a multi-national college autonomy competition for UAS, named Project X,
focusing on the published JCGUAS priorities. The document also initiated the completion of a
contract for UAS autonomy ontology development and a NATO/academia series of competitions
called SAPIENCE. Through his experience with UAS and autonomy, Don was requested as a
judge for the SAPIENCE competition in July 2025 in Huntsville, Alabama. Don continues to
support the US representative and US Chairmen to NATO JCGUAS coordinating actions from a
broad range of national participants including the newest NATO countries, as well as partner
nations including Israel and Ukraine. Assignments include extended international travel, to work
with leading NATO national engineers to develop UAS related standards within the fields of
spectrum, command and control, AI, and airspace integration.

Following his interest and experience for electronic transmissions as well as unmanned
systems, he supports the local Amateur Radio for Emergency Services (ARES) organization, and
has been a volunteer judge at the local VEX Robotics competitions for the last four years.