Welcome to a special edition of Brothers in Aerospace & Defense, recorded live at NSBE 2025! In this episode, we explore cutting-edge advancements in aerospace, energy, and defense with leaders from NSBE’s Special Interest Groups (SIGs). Our powerhouse panel shares insights on industry challenges, career strategies, and how Black engineers are shaping the future.

Hear them discuss:

Special Guests:

🎙️ Enanga Daisy Fale – Director, Aerospace Special Interest Group

🎙️ Natasha Herring – Director, Energy SIG

🎙️ Seth Graham – Program Chair, Young Technical Professionals SIG

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DeWayne Allen on Linkedin

Robert Wesley on Linkedin

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The StoryTeller by DeWayne Allen

Autonomous Platforms of the Future by Robert Wesley

In this special episode, hosts DeWayne Allen and Rob Wesley tackle a crucial and timely discussion—how professionals in the aerospace and defense industry can navigate the elimination of DEI initiatives. For over two decades, DEI programs have fostered mentorship, created opportunities, and strengthened the pipeline for Black technical talent. With recent policy changes leading to their reduction or elimination, many professionals are asking: What’s next? How do we continue to excel and support the next generation?

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DeWayne Allen on Linkedin

Robert Wesley on Linkedin

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The StoryTeller by DeWayne Allen

Autonomous Platforms of the Future by Robert Wesley

In this special episode, hosts DeWayne Allen and Rob Wesley take a deep dive into the most impactful events in the aerospace and defense industry in 2024. From groundbreaking technological advancements to sustainability efforts and workforce developments, this episode highlights the key moments shaping the future of the industry. Plus, a look ahead at what’s coming in 2025!

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DeWayne Allen on Linkedin

Robert Wesley on Linkedin

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The StoryTeller by DeWayne Allen

Autonomous Platforms of the Future by Robert Wesley

In this episode, hosts Dewayne Allen and Rob Wesley delve into the latest innovations and trends within the aerospace and defense industry. They discuss the increasing focus on sustainability, highlighting groundbreaking technological advancements in electric propulsion and hydrogen-based fuel systems. Key newsmakers include the U.S. Army's autonomous surveillance drone and NASA's Artemis 3 lunar mission preparations. Throughout the episode, they cover the technical and business challenges and opportunities presented by green aviation initiatives, emphasizing the potential for reduced carbon footprints and the future of sustainable air travel.

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DeWayne Allen on Linkedin

Robert Wesley on Linkedin

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The StoryTeller by DeWayne Allen

Autonomous Platforms of the Future by Robert Wesley

In this episode, hosts Dewayne Allen and Rob Wesley dive into the intersection of technology and business within the dynamic aerospace and defense industry. They discuss major events and newsmakers from September 2024, including the Global Aerospace Summit, India's successful drone flight, and NASA's Earth Science Mission. They explore each agency's unique missions, technical needs, business priorities, and current challenges, such as NASA's ambitious Artemis program. 

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DeWayne Allen on Linkedin

Robert Wesley on Linkedin

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The StoryTeller by DeWayne Allen

Autonomous Platforms of the Future by Robert Wesley

In this engaging episode, DeWayne Allen and Rob Wesley delve into the intricate world of the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA). They also provide a detailed look into the future of technology in intelligence operations, emphasizing the importance of AI, machine learning, and autonomous technologies. They highlight how these advancements can enhance situational awareness, operational efficiency, and safety while reducing costs.

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DeWayne Allen on Linkedin

Robert Wesley on Linkedin

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The StoryTeller by DeWayne Allen

Autonomous Platforms of the Future by Robert Wesley

"Understanding your value to the business is crucial for career growth in the aerospace and defense industry."

In this engaging episode, DeWayne Allen and Rob Wesley delve deep into the world of aerospace and defense industry career success. They discuss essential strategies such as getting depth and breadth in your field, creating a personal board of directors, transitioning to a managerial role, understanding your value to the business, and learning the language of finance. 

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DeWayne Allen on Linkedin

Robert Wesley on Linkedin

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The StoryTeller by DeWayne Allen

Autonomous Platforms of the Future by Robert Wesley

"Autonomous technologies continue to be the fastest growing product in the industry, spanning from commercial seafloor mapping to military applications like mine countermeasures."

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DeWayne Allen on Linkedin

Robert Wesley on Linkedin

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The StoryTeller by DeWayne Allen

Autonomous Platforms of the Future by Robert Wesley

In this episode, we'll cover the major challenges within the aerospace and defense supply chain and discuss three potential solutions: supplier IP, reverse engineering, and having alternate sources. DeWayne and Rob highlight the importance of supply chain management and its impact on the industry's bottom line.

Key Takeaways:

• The complexity and globalization of the supply chain present significant risks.

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DeWayne Allen on Linkedin

Robert Wesley on Linkedin

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The StoryTeller by DeWayne Allen

Autonomous Platforms of the Future by Robert Wesley

In this episode, they discuss all things DARPA (Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency) and its collaboration with the aerospace and defense industry. They highlight key DARPA space programs, and discuss how DARPA does business with industry, emphasizing the agency's willingness to take risks and pursue high-risk, high-reward projects. Overall, this episode provides a comprehensive overview of DARPA's role in shaping the future of aerospace and defense.

Connect with us:

DeWayne Allen on Linkedin

Robert Wesley on Linkedin

Subscribe to our Newsletter:

The StoryTeller by DeWayne Allen

Autonomous Platforms of the Future by Robert Wesley