Moderator/Speaker/SME Bios
T.J. Schulz | President | Airport Consultants Council (ACC) & Director | Security Manufacturers Coalition
T.J. Schulz was appointed by the ACC Board of Directors to become President of ACC in January, 2014. His duties include routinely
interfacing with aviation-related government agencies, including the Department of Homeland Security (DHS)/Transportation Security
Administration (TSA), the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), and the U.S. Congress concerning high-priority technical, regulatory and
legislative issues. Mr. Schulz has 20+ years in transportation policy experience. During his eight years with ACC, he has represented airport
development companies and suppliers in a number of diverse matters relating to aviation policy and regulations. He has been the industry
representative in numerous interactions with FAA and TSA, and has presented at multiple aviation conferences. He was instrumental in
the formation of the Security Manufacturers Coalition (SMC), an organization of security technology manufacturers formed under ACC,
and he currently serves as Director of the coalition. He also serves on the board of the Aero Club of Washington. Mr. Schulz is an expert
in surface transportation. Prior to his tenure at ACC he worked as the Director of Transportation Programs for the American Council of
Engineering Companies (ACEC) and also worked for 10 years at the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials
(AASHTO).
Charlotte Peed | Senior Consultant | Rapiscan Systems & Chair | ACC Security Committee
Charlotte S. Peed has over 25 years of aviation industry experience working with both public and private sector organizations. Charlotte
has held the leadership positions of Manager of Community Relations and Chief of Staff at Washington Dulles International Airport for the
Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority, operators or Reagan Washington National Airport and Washington Dulles International
Airport. In 2002 she joined the newly formed TSA as Deputy Area Director for the North Central Area, Aviation Operations, responsible
for establishing a TSA presence at 117 airports. She was Stakeholder and Acting General Manager for Commercial Airports in the Office of
Transportation Sector Network Management, dealing with a wide-range of aviation/airport policy issues. Charlotte established the Office
of Industry Outreach in TSA’s Office of Security Technology. Charlotte is known nationally for her work with airports during the formative
stages of the TSA. Currently Ms. Peed is a Senior Consultant to Rapiscan Systems, the providers of passenger, baggage and cargo security
screening equipment deployed globally. Charlotte S. Peed holds a Bachelor of Science degree from James Madison University and a
Masters degree from Virginia Polytechnic Institute.
Jill Vaughan | Assistant Administrator | TSA Office of Security Capabilities
Jill Vaughan became the Assistant Administrator for the Office of Security Capabilities and the Chief Technology Officer in December 2014.
As the Assistant Administrator for OSC, Vaughan oversees the implementation and development, test and evaluation, acquisition,
deployment and maintenance of all TSA security technologies and systems across multiple modes of transportation. She directly supports
TSA's mission by providing security capabilities to the field and continually enhances the effectiveness and efficiency of our Nation's
transportation systems through the qualification and deployment of security capabilities that drive the global standard for security. Jill
Vaughan previously served as the Deputy Chief Information Officer and Deputy Assistant Administrator for the Office of Information
Technology, working diligently to ensure the effectiveness of TSA’s information technology programs. As the Deputy Assistant
Administrator for the Office of Information Technology, Jill ensured that mission-critical information technology products and services are
provided to over 60,000 TSA employees at airports and field locations around the world.
Matt Johnson | Intelligence Operations Specialist | Transportation Security Administration
Frank Cartwright | Technology Portfolio Manager, Mission Analysis Division | Transportation Security Administration
For the past 15 yrs. Frank Cartwright has served the TSA in various technical capacities. As a contractor he supported the TSL
(Transportation Security Lab), with the development of technical requirements for Checked-baggage Systems. After several years
developing requirements and helping to design the next generation of Checked-baggage systems he performed similar duties for
Infrastructure & Conveyance (i.e. Cargo/Intermodal). As a Federal employee Mr. Cartwright supported the Passenger Screening Program
as the Portfolio System Engineer for Carry-on-Bag screening technologies and later Passenger Screening technologies. Currently, Mr.
Cartwright is the engineering manager for the Technology Portfolio within the Mission Analysis Division. In this capacity Mr. Cartwright is
responsible for the innovative development of all security equipment used to screen Passengers and their luggage (both carry-on and
checked).
Nick Bianchini | Deputy Director, Mission Analysis Division | Transportation Security Administration
Domenic “Nick” Bianchini joined the Transportation Security Administration in September 2002. He currently serves as the Deputy Director
for the Mission Analysis Division in the Office of Security Capabilities. He previously served as Division Director for the Checkpoint
Technology Division. His experience includes supporting airports in the deployment, integration, and lifecycle management of aviation
screening technology for over 15 years. His primary role is working with international partners to align performance requirements and
enhance aviation security.
Dr. Chris Smith | Acting Director, Explosives Division, DHS Science & Technology | Transportation Security Administration
In July 2005, Dr. Smith joined the TSA’s Transportation Security Laboratory (TSL) as the Conveyance Protection Product Lead, where he
oversaw research, development, test and evaluation of projects on passenger aircraft vulnerability and mitigation. From January 2011
through December 2014, Dr. Smith served as the TSL’s Chief Engineer, responsible for all developmental test and evaluation (including
vulnerability assessment and detection device performance). Dr. Smith also served as a member of the Transportation Security Lab’s
Senior Management Team. Currently Dr. Smith is the acting Director of the Explosives Directorate within DHS S&T. In this role Dr. Smith
is responsible for managing explosive detection and mitigation research and developing explosive screening technologies for the
Transportation Security Administration and other DHS components.
Michael Saunders | Director, Homeland Security Strategic Initiatives | General Dynamics Mission Systems
& Vice-Chair | ACC Security Committee
Michael Saunders is Director of Homeland Security Strategic Initiatives with General Dynamics Mission Systems in Fairfax, Virginia. He
currently serves as the Account Director for the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). Mr. Saunders has been employed by
General Dynamics for 17 years in operations, strategy and business development roles. Prior to joining General Dynamics, Mr. Saunders
was Director of Online Product Development for the Thomson Corporation and prior to that, Mr. Saunders was a Senior Manager for Ernst
& Young LLP where he managed enterprise system development programs and business transformation initiatives. He has also held
engineering and management positions with Science Applications International Corporation (SAIC) and Lockheed Martin. Mr. Saunders is
a graduate of Virginia Tech’s College of Engineering.
John P. Sammon | Chief Marketing Officer | Transportation Security Administration
As Chief Marketing Officer, John Sammon leads TSA in identifying and promoting risk-based security programs across the private sector
and with the traveling public. Prior to this position, Sammon served as the Assistant Administrator for the Office of Policy and Industry
Engagement where he was responsible for engaging transportation industry partners in the development of security policy. Before joining
TSA in 2006, Sammon spent many years in the railroad industry working as Senior Vice President of Marketing and Sales for CSX and
Conrail where he supported extensive business development, operations and change management. Mr. Sammon has a Bachelor of Science
degree in economics from Bucknell University and a Masters of Science degree in economics from Texas A&M University.
Donald G. Drummer | Deputy Assistant Administrator | Transportation Security Administration
Don Drummer took the helm as Deputy Assistant Administrator, Office of Security Capabilities in October 2014. In this capacity, he serves
as Deputy Chief Technology Officer responsible for supporting and integrating the development, testing, acquisition, deployment,
sustainment and life cycle management of multi-modal transportation security technology and systems. Prior to this assignment, he
served as Federal Security Director at Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), as Acting Federal Security Director at BaltimoreWashington International Airport (BWI), and as Deputy Federal Security Director at John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK). Prior to
joining TSA, he completed 30 years of service in the U.S. Army as a Colonel with extensive experience in leading, training and supporting
war-fighting units and military communities in the United States and overseas.
Mark Rider | Deputy Chief Acquisition Executive | Transportation Security Administration
Mark Rider, as the Executive Director of Acquisition Services and Analysis, is responsible for assisting and guiding TSA program managers
and their programs through the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) acquisition process. Mr. Rider also oversees the TSA acquisition
management process by assessing program performance, assisting/advising program managers and their staffs, coordinating program
management training and certification, and managing acquisition reporting and database systems. As the Deputy TSA Acquisition
Executive, Mr. Rider supervises the execution of TSA’s governance processes to include TSA acquisition review boards. He additionally
serves as the TSA representative to the DHS Joint Requirements Council (JRC). Mr. Rider has over 30 years of operational and acquisition
experience from the Army, industry, and the federal government.
Larry Studdiford | National Aviation Systems Practice Leader | AECOM
Larry Studdiford is a National Aviation Systems Practice Leader for AECOM responsible for the firm’s baggage handling systems practice.
He has 20 years of experience in the aviation industry, primarily in the planning, design, commissioning, integration, and program
management of baggage handling and checked baggage inspection systems at airports worldwide. Larry is a member of numerous
industry association groups including ACC’s Safety & Security Committee, ACI-NA’s Public Safety & Security committee, AAAE’s Corporate
Committee, and the TSA Planning Guidelines & Design Standards (PGDS) Industry Working Group. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree
in Mechanical Engineering from the University of New Haven and a Master of Science degree in Engineering Management from Ohio
University, and is a certified Project Management Professional (PMP)
Sissy Pressnell | Vice President, Government Relations | Smiths Detection & Chair | Security Manufacturers Coalition
Sissy Pressnell is currently the Vice President for Government Relations for Smiths Group, PLC. She began her career over 20 years ago as
the Legislative Director for her congressman, Representative Hal Rogers, (R-KY) the current Chairman of the House Appropriations
Committee and has also had the privilege of serving as a senior policy advisor for appropriations and homeland security matters to former
Senate Majority Leaders Bob Dole (R-KS) and Tom Daschle (D-SD) during her tenure at a prominent Washington, DC law firm. Sissy’s
expertise is in matters relating to Homeland Security, transportation and aviation security. She serves on the policy committee, and was
recently re-elected to her third term as Chairman of the Security Manufacturers Coalition (SMC) which serves as the unified voice of nine
prominent manufacturers of security screening technology equipment screening passengers at checkpoints in all major U.S. airports and
around the world.
Holly Hamilton Bolger | Acting Division Director, Office of Security Capabilities | Transportation Security Administration
Holly Hamilton Bolger is the Division Director of the Security Technology Acquisition Division (STAD) within the TSA Office of Acquisition.
In this role, she supports the Office of Security Capabilities by overseeing the procurement of all TSA security screening equipment, as
well as associated systems integration, professional services, and logistics. She joined TSA in May, 2003 and has held a variety of positions
within the Office of Acquisition. Previously, Ms. Bolger worked in the acquisition policy division at the Federal Emergency Management
Agency and as a contracts attorney at the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation.
Robyn Peters | Branch Chief | Transportation Security Administration
Robyn Peters is a Branch Chief within the Security Technology Acquisition Division (STAD) in the TSA Office of Acquisition. Specifically she
supports the Office of Security Capabilities, Passenger Screening Program with the management of product and service contracts for all
of the transportation security equipment used in the passenger screening checkpoints. She joined TSA in February 2005 and has held a
variety of positions within the Office of Acquisition. Ms. Peters has a Bachelor of Science degree from Texas Christian University and
earned a Master’s in Business Administration from the George Washington University.
Melissa Jenkins | Alternate Small Business Specialist | Transportation Security Administration
Melissa Jenkins currently performs studies and analysis on economic and business issues as to trends and practices that reflect success
and or barriers to small, small disadvantaged, 8(a) firms, woman-owned, Historically Underutilized Business Zone (HUBZone), veteranowned and service-disabled veteran-owned businesses. She also maintains interface by advising and informing them of future and/or
potential contracting opportunities.
Tracy Kennedy | Technical Director | General Dynamics Mission Systems
Tracy Kennedy is a Technical Director for General Dynamics Mission Systems. He has more than 30 years of experience providing system
solutions for the Defense, Intelligence, and Homeland Security communities. Tracy retired from the US Air force where he provided
Engineering and Launch Operations Management for space-based US National Security systems. As a Systems Engineer and subsequently
Launch Director for Ball Aerospace and Assured Space Access, Inc., Tracy led multi-discipline teams through design, development, and
launch operations for 23 Strategic Defense Initiative (SDI), National Security, and international launch projects focused on image data
collection/exploitation and phenomenology research. Tracy joined General Dynamics in 1999 and has held several technical leadership
positions including Director of Engineering. In this position he provided leadership for development of High Performance Computing
Systems, distributed, autonomous collaborative unattended sensor systems, and Open Architecture airborne mission systems. In 2008
he assumed technical leadership for General Dynamics Mission Systems Homeland Security Strategic Initiatives.
Amir Neeman | Founder and Principal | Amir Neeman Consulting
For over 25 years, Amir Neeman has been involved in aviation security, homeland protection; specifically focusing on security
technologies. His diverse background (as an airport operator, government regulator, equipment manufacturer and strategic advisor to
TSA) enables him to utilize a holistic approach critically required to develop and implement successful and sustainable security solutions.
Mr. Neeman is an expert in systems analysis and Transportation Security Equipment (TSE) design, development and implementation, TSE
test & evaluation, business analysis and change management for large and complex project teams. He is a globally recognized expert in
complex security operational issues and TSE development, implementation, testing, and use.
Jason Hull | Acting Director, Checkpoint Technologies and Integration Division | Transportation Security Administration
Jason Hull is the Acting Division Director for the Checkpoint Solutions and Integration Division (CSID) within the Transportation Security
Administration (TSA) Office of Security Capabilities (OSC). In this role, he leads TSA's efforts to identify, acquire, and manage state of the
art technologies and capabilities that screen passengers and their accessible property for unauthorized explosives, incendiaries, weapons,
and other prohibited items. For more than ten years, Jason has worked with OSC on technology acquisition, procurement, integration,
and evaluation all in support of aviation security. Before beginning his federal career, Jason held positions at both Citibank and IBM.
Steve Karoly | Director, Deployment Division | Transportation Security Administration
Mr. Stephen (Steve) J. Karoly is the Division Director for the Deployment and Logistics Division (DLD) within TSA’s Office of Security
Capabilities. Mr. Karoly brings over 30 years of acquisition and systems engineering experience from both a Federal and Industry
perspective. Mr. Karoly is a member of the Senior Executive Service (SES) where he received his career appointment in September 2011.
Prior to joining TSA in 2014, Mr. Karoly served as Assistant Director for Product Acquisition and Deployment at DHS’ Domestic Nuclear
Detection Office (DNDO) where he led a staff of engineers, scientists, and acquisition specialists whose mission was to acquire and deploy
radiological and nuclear detection systems as required by Presidential Directives and Congressional Mandates.
Tim Hudson | Principal | Atkins
Tim is the Aviation Architecture Service Leader for Atkins, with more than 25 years of experience with numerous aviation project types.
He has served in both Senior Project Manager and Senior Project Architect roles on large and medium-scale, domestic and international
terminal facilities. His focus has been on terminal planning and design, covering greenfield terminals, terminal renovations and expansions,
with programs ranging from $300,000 to $1.5 billion. His terminal design focus is on passenger processing, including passenger check-in
and self-service processes, self-bag tagging, EDS checked baggage inspection systems and passenger checkpoint design and layouts—
including the regulatory concerns that are involved in each. Tim has published works and spoken at industry events on subjects such as
baggage screening systems/technologies and passenger checkpoints and self-service processes. He has also actively participated in the
development of the TSA Planning Guidelines and Design Standards for checked baggage inspection systems as well as TSA Checkpoint
Design Guidelines. Tim is active in both AAAE and ACC, and is the current Chair for the ACC Terminal and Facilities Committee.
Robin Baughman | President & CFO | VTC
Ms. Baughman is a recognized expert in aviation security technologies, and integrated design solutions and implementations. With a
career history of leading design and construction projects, and national programs for transportation security systems integration, and
operational testing, she is committed to delivering coherent, rational, cost effective and flexible solutions to our clients.
Prior to joining VTC, Ms. Baughman was with an international Planning / Architecture / Engineering firm for more than 20 years. Ms.
Baughman’s responsibilities as an owner and executive at VTC include oversight of BHS/CBIS projects at twelve U.S. airports, as well as
serving the Aviation Industry as a sought out expert in security technology planning and innovation. In addition to serving as Principal-inCharge for specific projects, Ms. Baughman has leadership responsibility for VTC’s Airport Integration Test Laboratory (AITL). The AITL is
an in-house closed loop conveyor system which will accommodate two In-line Screening Device (ISD) lines and consists of 80 conveyor
sections, vertical sorters, diverters, a vertical merge, a Baggage Measuring Array (BMA)/Automatic Tag Reader (ATR), a Checked Baggage
Resolution Area (CBRA), node panels, control stations, Human Machine Interfaces (HMI), work stations, and a network rack of servers
which support DeviceNet/ControlNet, Ethernet and Profibus/ASi architectures.
Paul Burrowes | PSP Program Manager | Transportation Security Administration
James “Matt” Johnson | Portfolio Manager, Checkpoint Solutions & Integration | Transportation Security Administration
Matt Johnson started his public service with TSA’s Federal Air Marshal Service in 2005 where he developed and delivered training to
federal air marshals. In 2010, Matt took a position with TSA’s Office of Security Capabilities (OSC) as an analyst in the Passenger Screening
Program’s (PSP) Program Office. There he worked to deploy and support the Advanced X-Ray Technologies (AT-2), Bottle Liquid Scanner
(BLS), and Explosive Trace Detection (ETD) screening technologies. In 2012, Matt transitioned to the Layered Technologies Portfolio Lead
where he currently manages the Credential Authentication Technology (CAT) and Boarding Pass Scanner (BPS) programs.
Paul Erhard | Director of Programs | L-3 Security & Detection Systems
Paul Erhard is the Senior Director for Strategic Account Management at L-3 Communications’ Security and Detection Systems Division.
Mr. Erhard has worked at L-3 since 2003 providing oversight for the development of security screening technology as well as managing
multiple TSA contracts. His work on TSA programs includes the qualification and deployment of Checkpoint Passenger Screening and
Carry-on Bag Scanning technologies, as well as Checked Baggage Explosive Detection Systems for use throughout the US. Mr Erhard
received a MS in Structural Engineering from Northeastern University.
Shawn Dagg | Chief Strategy Officer | Optosecurity
Shawn Dagg is a technology professional with over 20 years of experience in advanced data management and security
technologies. Shawn was Director of Product Management for Informix Software prior to its acquisition by IBM. After the attacks of
September 11, 2001, Shawn was one of 6 people pulled together to form the IBM Safety and Security Protection Services emerging
business unit (EBO), which ultimately became the IBM Homeland Security business unit. In that role, Shawn was a lead advisor to TSA
supporting multiple critical people screening and threat management programs as well as a resident subject matter expert on
biometrics, risk analysis, and secure data management. After assisting CLEAR, the private sector domestic TSA Registered Traveler
program, to launch their operations in 20 airports as their CIO, Shawn returned to his native Canada to join Optosecurity as Chief
Strategy Officer focused on industry expansion for the company.
Gloria Bender | Managing Principal | TransSolutions
Ms. Bender is an industrial engineer who has over 30 years of experience in operations and facility capacity analyses, conceptual design,
and expansion planning. She is a co-founder and co-owner of TransSolutions, where she was instrumental in establishing the airport
landside consulting area including airport security and baggage systems, terminal and passenger flow analysis, and airport curbside and
roadway systems. A major focus of her career has been successful implementation of federal facilitation and security protocols and
technology advancements for international arrivals processing and for passenger, baggage, concessions and employee screening while
maintaining excellent passenger service. She championed development of the Operations Excellence Consulting practice in 2009. Ms.
Bender currently serves projects as the Principal-in-charge, responsible for accomplishing project objectives with the highest technical
quality within schedule and budget constraints.
Peter McVey | Deputy Director, Deployment & Logistics | Transportation Security Administration
Peter “Pete” McVey entered TSA in 2007 with 20 years of construction and project management-related experience, bringing with him
the specialized skills and executive expertise required to stand up a robust cost estimation capability. His entry coincided with OSC’s
surge towards more efficient but complex automated baggage screening systems. Mr. McVey quickly learned the meaning of “collateral
duties” within OSC as within his first few days on the job he assumed project management responsibilities for the LAX in-line EDS
implementation, TSA’s largest airport construction project. Working through a progression of difficult assignments related to improving
screening system operational and cost efficiencies, security effectiveness, and personnel (TSO) safety. Pete is a 1987 graduate of
Radford University.
Dale Mason | Program Analyst | Transportation Security Administration
Dale Mason has been with the TSA since March 22, 2002. He was hired into first TSA class and worked his way from supervisor to
manager to analyst finding his home in OSC Operations in Checkpoint Design for the past several years.
Anthony Tsantrizos | Operations Branch Manager | Transportation Security Administration
Anthony Tsantrizos started as a Checkpoint Screener at IAD when it was federalized in 2002. He worked his way up to Checkpoint
Security Manager and became the project manager and TSA liaison for multiple construction projects and equipment deployments at
IAD. Anthony came to the TSA Headquarters in 2009 as the Eastern Region Checkpoint Deployment Manager. He currently is the
Operations Branch Manager for OSC’s Deployment and Logistics Division.
Kevin Heffernan | GM, Americas Aviation | Morpho Detection
Kevin Heffernan is the General Manager for Aviation Security at Morpho Detection. Kevin has worked at Morpho Detection for 5 years
and oversees all commercial activities for the aviation market segment in North America and recently added global responsibility for EDS
sales. Prior to joining Morpho Detection, Kevin was the Global Sales Leader for GE Power Sensing. Kevin began his career with GE in 2005,
and has served in a variety of sales, marketing and operations roles. Kevin attended the United States Military Academy at West Point and
graduated with a Bachelor of Science Degree in 1998. Following graduation, he was commissioned as a Military Intelligence Second
Lieutenant and served seven years on active duty in a variety of leadership positions in support of military operations in Bosnia, Republic
of Korea, Panama and Kuwait. Kevin holds an MBA from University of Richmond. Kevin lives in Dallas, TX with his wife and two daughters.
Paul Shank | Chief Engineer | Maryland Aviation Administration – BWI Airport
Mr. Shank oversees the planning, design and construction of BWI Marshall Airport’s capital improvement and systems preservation
programs at BWI Marshall Airport and Martin State Airport. As the Chief Engineer, he also oversees Design and Construction, Noise and
Land Use Compatibility and Planning and Environmental Services. Mr. Shank has over 30 years of experience in airport development and
associated transportation, commercial and institutional development throughout the United States and overseas. He has over three
decades of experience managing projects; capital development programs; departments; branch offices and full-service consulting firms.
Mr. Shank is a licensed Professional Engineer in the State. He is a 1980 graduate of the University of Maryland with a degree in Civil
Engineering. Mr. Shank is also a Certified Member of the American Association of Airport Executives.
Robert Ratcliffe | General Engineer, Requirements & Systems Engineering Branch | Transportation Security Administration
Working continuously in the Airport baggage industry for over 25 years, Robert Ratcliffe has worked with Contractors, Consultants and
the TSA utilizing his engineering background to develop and foster baggage systems nationwide. The experience gained from these
facets of this industry offers a clarity of perspective, allowing appropriate solutions for the complex issues that are often presented in
this environment.
Mike Duffy | Manager, OSPIE Commercial Aviation Airports | Transportation Security Administration
Mike Duffy assumed his duties as a Manager for Commercial Airports in September of 2008. Prior to that he was assigned as TSA Executive
Liaison to the FAA HQ. His first responsibilities at TSA were in the regulatory area where he was the Director for Airport Inspections and
later the Branch Chief for all inspection responsibility. He joined TSA from industry as a consultant and Defense Contractor employed by
Computer Sciences Corporation working National Capital Region air security issues.
Elizabeth Negron-Diaz | Engineering Coordinator | Transportation Security Administration
Elizabeth Negron Diaz was born in Ponce, Puerto Rico. She has a Master’s Degree in Civil Engineering from the University of Puerto Rico
and moved to DC in 2010 to work for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Within the Department of Homeland Security she’s
had the opportunity to work with different components, such as Transportation Security Administration (TSA), US Coast Guard (USCG),
and Customs and Border Protection (CBP). She joined TSA after working as a Systems Engineer for the United States Coast Guard, in the
Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (C4ISR) acquisition program. In 2012 she
started working for CBP, Office of Technology Innovation and Acquisition (OTIA), Systems Analysis and Evaluation Division. After her time
with CBP she began working for TSA as an Engineering Coordinator for the Electronic Baggage Screening Program (EBSP) Planning Branch.
In this position she is the Planning Guidelines and Design Standards lead, she’s responsible for the coordination and management of the
document during the revision process and is responsible for chairing the PGDS Technical Review Committee (TRC). She’s also the COR for
the Professional Engineering and Logistics and Support Services design review task order.
Brandon Sorrell | Associate Director | LeighFisher
Brandon Sorrell has spent over 13 years in the aviation industry and has experience in technology development, security and passenger
processes, airport operations management, and efficiency analysis. He is a recognized expert in explosive detection system technology
and baggage handling systems and provides primary support for the management of the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA)
Planning Guidelines and Design Standards (PGDS) for Checked Baggage Inspection Systems. Additionally, he also serves as the co-chair of
the PGDS Industry Working Group made up of representatives from over 20 stakeholder organizations committed to the annual review
and update of the document. Brandon has also led the development of extensive analysis tools that use the data generated by baggage
screening systems to provide metrics and operational reporting capability to the TSA. In addition to his TSA support, Brandon also has
worked with clients such as the Port of Portland as a passenger processing technology subject matter expert during terminal area master
plan studies.
Scott Broyles | President & CEO | National Safe Skies Alliance
Scott Broyles is President and Chief Executive Officer for National Safe Skies Alliance, a 501(c)3 non-profit corporation that specializes in
applied research and testing of aviation security technologies. He has over 29 years’ experience in the aviation industry, serving in diverse
security and management positions. As Safe Skies’ CEO, Scott develops organizational strategy, sets the direction, and promotes the vision
for company activities. He was instrumental in the formation of and has continued to advance the Program for Applied Research in Airport
Security (PARAS) and the Airport Security System Integrated Support Testing (ASSIST) Program, both of which are a collaborative effort
between airports, government, and aviation-related organizations to improve airport security using the combined knowledge and
experience of the aviation security community. Scott currently serves on the Aviation Security Advisory Committee (ASAC) and is a member
of the TRB Aviation Security and Emergency Management Committee. Scott holds a Bachelor’s degree in Aviation Management and a
Master’s degree in Leadership and Public Policy.
William Gibbs | Vice President, Baggage Handling Systems | Swanson Rink
Mr. Gibbs has 30 years of experience providing master planning, design, engineering and integration, and testing for a variety of in-line
Baggage Handling System projects. System design experience includes detailed design of integrated BHS controls systems, static model
and dynamic simulation analysis of alternative design solutions, analysis of system performance and assessment of compliance with
project design criteria and PGDS requirements. Mr. Gibbs is a member of the industry working group which advises TSA on revisions and
updates to the PGDS. Finally, Mr. Gibbs is a Professional Engineer, and received his degree from the University of Kansas.
Mario Wilson | Director, Checked Baggage Technology | Transportation Security Administration
Mario Wilson is the Division Director for the Checked Baggage Technologies Division in the TSA’s Office of Security Capabilities. He is also
the Program Manager for the Electronic Baggage Screening Program (EBSP). He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science
from the United States Naval Academy and a Master of Science degree in Leadership and Human Resources Development from the Naval
Postgraduate School. Prior to joining TSA, he served 16 years in the United States Navy as an aviator, 2 years as a project manager at
Verizon Business, 2 years as a defense contractor and project manager at the Department of Defense’s Joint IED Defeat Organization
(JIEDDO), and 3 years as a Program Manager at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Science and Technology (S&T) Directorate’s
Explosives Division. In October 2013, he transferred from DHS S&T, where he served as the Program Manager for the Explosives Division’s
Checked Baggage Program and the Deputy Program Manager for the Explosives Division’s Homemade Explosives Program.
Robert Pryor | Director, Intermodal Division | Transportation Security Administration
Mr. Pryor is assigned to the Office of Security Capabilities, Transportation Security Administration as the Director, Intermodal Division.
Intermodal Division supports security technologies for all TSA mission areas except civil aviation passenger screening. Mr. Pryor returned
to government service in 2003, after 10 years working in the private sector. During that time he held several director and program
manager positions, and served in several security-related foreign assignments. A former Marine officer, Mr. Pryor’s active duty experience
included a variety of Fleet Marine Force command and staff assignments, and specialized research and development and counter
intelligence/counter terrorism assignments.
Peter Bjostad | Vice President | CAGE
Peter is the Vice President of CAGE Inc., a diversified consulting, engineering and management company specializing in baggage handling
systems, aircraft parking and aviation support systems. Peter holds a BSEE degree from the University of Minnesota and has over 34 years
of aviation experience with the last 21 years in Baggage Handling and Aircraft Support Systems. Since 1989, his aviation experience has
focused on the planning, design and construction of airport facilities and critical systems at airports around the world. Peter has been with
CAGE, Inc. since 2000 and has been directly involved with Baggage Handling Systems (BHS) and Checked Baggage Inspection Systems
(CBIS) since the inception of the TSA and the DHS.
Mark Laustra | VP, Sales & Government Programs | Astrophysics
Mark Laustra has more than 25 years of selling and managing technology-based programs in the aviation security space having held
positions with several of the leading manufacturers of security detection systems and sensors. Mark’s current role is head of sales and
government programs for the Americas at Astrophysics Inc., a leading manufacturer of X-ray inspection based in southern California. His
responsibilities include leading sales and program teams focused on finding solutions to security and compliance issues for customers in
the Aviation, Ports and Borders and Critical Infrastructure markets. He is responsible for the company’s sales and marketing strategy and
manages government engagement activities from Arlington, Virginia. Among his significant previous positions, Mark served as Vice
President and General Manager at Smiths Detection, a FTSE 100 company and market leader of security detection sensors based in the
United Kingdom. In this position, Mark was responsible for managing the P&L for the company’s Homeland Security business and providing
executive leadership for its work force in Morristown, New Jersey and Rosslyn, Virginia. Mark holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the
University of Central Florida majoring in Business Management and is currently serving as the chair of the Security Manufacturers Coalition
Air Cargo Security Working Group.
Luke Olsen | Director of Sales, Defense Solutions | Smiths Detection
Luke Olsen returned to Smiths Detection in 2014 as the director of sales in the Defense Solutions division. His current responsibilities
include managing the business development and strategic planning for Smiths Detection aviation security market in the United
States. Prior to returning to Smiths, Luke worked for Astrophysics Inc. managing their business with the Federal Government from 2013
to 2014. His previous responsibilities at Smiths Detection included managing several key programs including the Explosives Trace
Detection (ETD), Bottle Liquid Scanning (BLS), Advanced Imaging Technology (AIT), and Air Cargo programs. In 5 years as a program
manager, Luke managed and oversaw the production, delivery, installation, and service of more than 3,000 pieces of detection equipment
currently deployed around the world to help our nation and our allies secure their borders and vital installations. Prior to joining Smiths
Detection, Luke served as an officer in the United States Air Force earning the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal and the National
Defense Service Medal. He holds a Master’s Degree from Washington University in St. Louis and a Bachelor’s degree from George
Washington University.
Jeffrey Quinones | CBTD Equipment Branch Manager | Transportation Security Administration
Quinones is Equipment Branch Manager for the Electronic Baggage Screening Program within the Office of Security Capability Checked
Baggage Technology Division. By trade he is an Electrical Engineer supporting TSA OSC Checked Baggage program for the last 10 years. He
is a subject matter expert in managing the system engineering lifecycle of Explosive Detection Systems and other checked baggage
transportation security equipment.
Peter Donis | CBTD Planning Branch | Transportation Security Administration
Peter Donis has been with TSA since September of 2005. He has worked on safety hazard mitigation, optimization, and checked baggage
deployment, and is currently in the Checked Baggage Technologies Division Planning Branch. Prior to coming to TSA, he served as an
officer in the U. S. Navy and then as a manufacturing and product engineer at General Motors.
Greg Cypher | Acceptance Test Lead | Transportation Security Administration
Cypher has been supporting TSA for the last 8 years in Deployment and Testing activities. He currently serves as the Checked Baggage
Deployment Coordinator for Region 6 (AZ, NV, CA, HI, GUM and Pacific Airports) since June 2014. Previously, Cypher Served as COTR for
Acceptance Testing from 2011-2014. He is also a member of the PGDS Technical Review Committee.
Mike Beneditti | S.O.S. Branch Manager | Transportation Security Administration
Mike Benedetti is the Manager for the Systems, Optimization & Support Branch of the Mission Analysis Division for and a subject matter
expert in baggage handling systems and system controls architecture for the Office of Security Capabilities. He has a Bachelor Degree in
Management Information Systems from Kennedy Western University. He has 25 years of experience in the analysis, design, programing
and checkout of conveyance systems, and has been involved with major baggage handling system for sortation and inline checked baggage
inspection systems throughout the United States.
Mark Griffin | Senior Systems Engineer | CAGE
Mark is a Senior Systems Engineer at CAGE Inc., a diversified consulting, engineering and management company specializing in baggage
handling systems, aircraft parking and aviation support systems. Mark has over 25 years of experience in system analysis, design,
implementation and checkout of mechanical, electrical and control systems. He has extensive involvement in the TSA’s recapitalization
and optimization program. He has been involved with major system design, installation, and testing throughout the U.S, and has extensive
expertise in Electrical Controls Engineering, Information Technology (IT) systems, Software Programming and Programmable Logic Control
(PLC) systems as they pertain to material handling and baggage systems. Since 1992, his aviation experience has focused on the planning,
design and construction of airport facilities and critical systems at airports around the world. Mark has been with CAGE, Inc. since 2004
and has been directly involved with in-line screening baggage systems since the inception of the TSA and the DHS.
Gerard Hanley | Technical Director, Government Programs | Rapiscan Systems
Gerard Hanley has been with Rapiscan Systems since 2009 and currently serves as Technical Director for Government Programs. Gerard
is the technical liaison to global aviation regulators and oversees the development of explosives detection capabilities on all Rapiscan
platforms from inception to deployment. He works closely with scientists and engineers at Rapiscan facilities around the world to ensure
the highest detection standards are met while providing an operationally effective customer-centric products in the applications of
checked baggage screening, carry-on baggage screening, personnel screening and air cargo screening using X-ray, EM and trace
technologies. Gerard has worked in the explosives detection field since 2000 with the likes of Quantum Magnetics (InVision Technologies/
GE Security), QR Sciences and Spectrum San Diego.
Jay Hollingsworth | Strategic Advisor | Southwest Airlines
Jay is enjoying a 28+ year career with Southwest Airlines, joining the Company in June of 1987. He started on the ground floor with
Southwest Airlines Cargo, serving as one of the original members of its Southwest Airlines Cargo Sales & Service Center in April of 1990.
Throughout his time with the Company he has held both frontline and management positions. Jay’s career path at Southwest Airlines has
given him the opportunity to serve in several different leadership roles; Manager Cargo Customer Care, Sr. Manager Cargo Operations,
Director Cargo Operations, and Director Cargo Programs & Compliance. In his current role of Strategic Advisor, his focus is to shape
strategic decisions relative to future screening technologies, mange key vendor partnerships and industry relationships (i.e. TSA, FAA, CBP,
A4A, etc.). Jay is an Oklahoma native and attended the University of Oklahoma.
Colleen Chamberlain | Vice President, Transportation Security Policy | American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE)
Colleen Chamberlain is the Vice President of Transportation Security Policy at the American Association of Airport Executives. In this
position, Colleen aims to serve the security needs of airports’ members through consistent interaction with the U.S. Department of
Homeland Security and the Transportation Security Administration. Prior to joining AAAE in August 2005, Colleen represented the Illinois
Department of Transportation in Washington, DC, acting as a liaison to Congress and the U.S. Department of Transportation. She also
worked for United Airlines in the Governmental Affairs division. Prior to that, she served as Chief of Staff to former U.S. Representative
William O. Lipinski (IL), then Ranking Member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee on Aviation. As the
Congressman’s primary policy advisor, she worked on a wide range of aviation issues, including domestic airline alliances, international
aerospace competition, safety, environmental and noise issues, cargo concerns and security.
Chris Bidwell | Vice President, Security & Facilitation | Airports Council International – North America (ACI-NA)
Christopher Bidwell joined ACI-NA as Vice President, Security and Facilitation in October 2008. He is responsible for leading the
association's efforts on airport security, facilitation and oversight of ACI-NA's regulatory activities. He monitors domestic and international
aviation security developments, as well as regulatory actions and programs affecting security and facilitation at North American
airports. He also serves as committee secretary to ACI-NA’s Public Safety and Security Committee. Bidwell has represented industry
aviation security interests as a member of several Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Transportation Security Administration
(TSA) committees and working groups. He is the chair of the DHS Aviation Sector Coordinating Council (ASCC) and serves as a member of
the TSA Aviation Security Advisory Committee (ASAC), providing recommendations to enhance aviation security.
Liam Connolly | Senior Director, Regulatory Affairs | Regional Airline Association (RAA)
Liam Connolly currently serves as the Senior Director of Security and Regulatory Affairs with the Regional Airline Association. Liam’s
tenure with RAA in this role spans more than 7 years, with his main areas of focus being security policy and emergency response. Liam
came to RAA with a strong background in regulatory affairs including more than 12 years in the aerospace and defense industry. Prior to
joining RAA, served as the Director of Aerospace and Defense Government Affairs for Smith, Bucklin Corporation covering a variety of
aerospace issues and working with DOD, FAA, NASA and Congress. Before joining SmithBucklin Corp. Liam served as a Legislative Assistant
to Congressman Peter G. Torkildsen (R-MA) specializing in defense and aerospace issues. Liam holds a BA in Political Science from the
University of Richmond, in Richmond, VA. He currently resides in Alexandria, VA and enjoys spending his free time with his wife and 2
young children.
Ken Dunlap | Director, APCS Government Affairs | International Air Transport Association (IATA)
Based in Washington, D.C., Ken Dunlap leads IATA’s government affairs activities relating to airports, passengers, cargo, and security. In
this global role, he formulates strategy and manages relationships with key government and international officials. Previously, as Global
Director, Security and Travel Facilitation, he was responsible for planning and executing the aviation security strategy of the Association
on behalf of 230 global airlines. Ken has been a leader in developing information sharing and critical infrastructure protection programs
for the airline industry. He launched and guided the Checkpoint of the Future program for IATA. He has testified on global aviation security
issues before the United States Congress and Canadian Parliament. Ken is the Vice-Chairman of the Department of Homeland Security’s
Aviation Security Advisory Committee (ASAC). He is a Senior Fellow with the George Washington University Center for Cyber and
Homeland Security. He has also served as the Vice-Chairman of the Air Line Pilot Association's (ALPA) National Security Committee. He
holds a M.A. in National Security Studies and B.A. in Government both from Georgetown University. Ken has logged thousands of hours
as both a commercial airline and military pilot.
Andy Lee | Director, Operational Test & Evaluation | Transportation Security Administration
Andy has been with the Federal Government for 23 years, splitting time between the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the
Transportation Security Administration (TSA). His career started in airport management, running a medium-sized commercial airport that
also served as a test bed for FAA research and development programs. Andy is currently the Director of the Operations Support Division
which includes all developmental and operational testing of technologies and capabilities for TSA. Andy is also the director of the TSIF
and serves as the TSA’s independent Operational Test Agent.
Scott Rooney | Manager for Operational Testing | Transportation Security Administration
Scott Rooney began his Transportation Security Administration (TSA) career in 2010 with the Operations Support Division as a TSA System
Integration Facility (TSIF) Test Branch Lead for Checkpoint Technologies. After acting as the TSIF Test Branch Manager in 2012, Scott
joined the Evaluation and Quality Assurance Branch as the Checked Baggage Technologies System Evaluator. In 2013, he acted as the
Operational Test Branch Manager where he is now full time. As Operational Test Branch Manager, Scott manages six Operational Test
Directors and OT&E support contracts to conduct OSC’s operational testing, assessments, and data collection activities at airports across
the country.
James S. Wells | Office of Test & Evaluation, Science & Technology Directorate | Transportation Security Administration
Terry Caughran | Manager, Evaluation & Quality Assurance | Transportation Security Administration
Mr. Terry L. Caughran currently serves as manager of Evaluation and Quality Assurance for the Transportation Security Administration
(TSA) Operational Test Agent within the Office of Security Capabilities. His duties include management and oversight of test and evaluation
for multiple TSA acquisition programs and projects for the modernization of security capabilities. Before joining the TSA team, he served
with the U.S. Army Evaluation Center as lead evaluator for medical information technology for Joint/DoD programs. Prior to civilian
government service, he was a contract project manager for teams providing the U.S. Army Test and Evaluation Command operational test
and evaluation planning and execution support. His experiences prior to civilian service included a career in the United States Army with
assignments in Field Artillery, Aviation, and ultimately IT Project management with the PEO for Standard Army Management Information
Systems. Mr. Caughran was raised in Terre Haute, Indiana and graduated from Indiana State University with studies in electronics and
manufacturing processes and technology. He holds both DoD and DHS Certified Acquisition Professional Level III ratings for Test and
Evaluation.
Jerek Knight | Program Manager | Rapiscan Systems
Jerek is currently responsible for the oversight and execution of the development, testing, deployment and sustainment of Baggage
Screening products (1500+ units) purchased by various agencies. He has extensive experience as a federal contractor supporting
agencies in the functional areas of program management, Acquisitions, security assessments, to include the design and installation of
complex security systems for the Department of State and other large federal government agencies including DHS, Office of Naval
Intelligence, and NASA.
Adam Tsao | Co-Founder & COO | Airside Mobile
An obsessive problem solver, innovator and contrarian, Adam Tsao has spent the last twenty years tackling some of the most complicated
issues in transportation and homeland security. From a senior executive at a high profile Federal Agency to a tech start up co-founder,
Adam has spearheaded dozens of successful initiatives aimed at improving the way we all travel. Adam is currently the COO at Airside
Mobile, Inc.
Solomon Wong | Executive Vice President | InterVISTAS
Solomon Wong is InterVISTAS Consulting’s lead consultant on border and security facilitation. Mr. Wong has supported a range of public
and private sector clients develop improved processes for international air travel. Among his clients include airports around the world
including Singapore, Houston, Montreal, Aruba, among others. He is an expert on the evolution of U.S. Prec learance, including policies,
flows and business case development for new sites. Mr. Wong has written extensively on improvements to passenger processes to
improve connectivity and encourage tourism development. Mr. Wong has supported a range of border process improvements including
input into trusted traveller program development in the 1990s to current border automation solutions. He has led teams to benchmark
the effectiveness of Automated Passport Control and developed new concept of operations for pilot projects involving new processing
technologies. Mr. Wong is active on the Airports Council International World Facilitation Committee and is also the Principal Investigator
for an applied research project on CBP facilities that will complete its work in 2016.
Edward Moriarty | Assistant Port Director | CBP
Thomas R. Rossbach | Vice President, Architecture Practice Leader | HNTB
Tom has 35 years of professional and managerial experience in aviation architectural practice, and has continuously been focused on
airport capital development and construction, including airport terminal design, terminal planning, landside planning and design, airfield
planning, airport business consulting, airport program management, alternate delivery methodologies for airports and airport
privatization. He has worked on more than 40 airport terminal projects domestically and abroad. Tom leads the HNTB Aviation
Architecture practice through 50 local HNTB offices nationwide. He is a frequent speaker in the aviation and transportation industry. Tom
has implemented TSA security checkpoints and TSA guidelines in all of the airport terminal projects and has worked on, and over 14
Customs and Border Protection international terminal FIS projects throughout the US and at pre-clearance sites abroad.
Nina Brooks | Director | InterVISTAS
Nina Brooks is a Director at InterVISTAS with over 20 years’ experience of delivering successful, high profile projects. Nina specialises in
aviation security and facilitation, programme and project management, regulatory and government affairs. Nina has worked with many
airports on the design of passenger flows and facilities, including both technology and infrastructure requirements. Nina joined
InterVISTAS after seven years at the International Air Transport Association where she was Head of Security and Facilitation Projects. Nina
represented the aviation industry with governments worldwide on implementation of regulations, particularly in the areas of passenger
information, border management and aviation security. Nina is also a key consultant for an applied research project on CBP facilities that
will complete its work in 2016.
Matt Cornelius | Managing Director, Air Policy | Airports Council International – North America (ACI-NA)
Matt Cornelius joined ACI-NA in November 2012 and currently serves as the Managing Director of Air Policy. In this role, Matt monitors
and advises on U.S., Canadian and international aviation regulations and issues including topics such as air service development, passenger
facilitation, airport/airline agreements, and rates and charges policies, among others. Matt also serves as the secretary to the Facilitation
Committee, the Large Hub Airport Caucus and the Air Service Work Group. Matt comes to ACI-NA with 12 years’ experience in the
commercial aviation industry, beginning with the Aviation Department of the Port Authority of New York & New Jersey where he held
various positions in Customer Service and Airport Operations. Matt worked in Airport Operations at Denver International Airport before
joining Frontier Airlines, holding roles in their Finance and Commercial Strategy departments. Immediately prior to joining ACI-NA, Matt
served as the Airline Affairs Manager with the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority. Matt earned a Master of Business
Administration degree in Marketing from the University of Colorado at Boulder and holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business
Administration from Villanova University.
Hans Miller | Founder & CEO | Airside Mobile
Founder and CEO of Airside Mobile, Hans Miller has helped change the airport passenger experience as an entrepreneur, industry
consultant and DHS executive. Since September 11, he has led the elimination of gate screening, improved TSA checkpoint throughput by
30%, and co-developed the “laptopin” carry-on bag. In 2007, he coordinated the first US launch of mobile boarding passes, a joint project
between Continental Airlines and TSA at Houston’s Bush Intercontinental, and successfully pushed for secure IATA boarding pass
standards. Launched in 2009, Airside Mobile developed the first smartphone app to store and display mobile boarding passes. Airside
Express has been featured on Apple’s Top 200 Travel Apps List and spotlighted by the Silicon Valley Business Journal. Hans is a former
McKinsey consultant and holds a BA from Harvard, a masters from the Georgetown School of Foreign Service, and an MBA from Wharton.
Tim Rayner | Vice Chair – EOS Civil Aviation Security Working Group | MultiX
Founder of Bagtronics Ltd, a UK-based consultancy specializing in security system business development with clients that includes both
US and EU based security companies. Currently Bagtronics Ltd is representing One Resonance Sensors, a developer of electronics and
liquid screening systems and Multix, a developer of photon counting, energy resolving x-ray detectors. Prior to forming Bagtronics, Dr.
Rayner was the Director of Technology for R&D programs at Rapiscan Systems Ltd in the UK. Before this he worked in senior research and
development roles at Daylight Solutions, QRSciences, General Electric, InVision Technologies and Quantum Magnetics. Dr. Rayner has
over twenty five years’ experience in the security business, developing technologies and sensors for various applications based on
transmission and backscatter x-ray, including multi-spectral x-ray detection, quadrupole resonance (QR), magnetic resonance (MR),
computed tomography (CT) and mid-IR absorption spectroscopy.
Sten Peeters | Senior Director of Business Development, Security Systems | Analogic
Sten is the Senior Director of Business Development for Analogic’s security business and is responsible for checkpoint and checked
equipment as well as RapidDNA technology. Sten is a business development professional with experience in a variety of industries
including security, batteries, online commerce, semiconductor test and management consulting. He has a strong background in product
management, product marketing, and sales. Sten has a MBA from INSEAD a MS EE from Cornell, and a BS EE from Lehigh.