Inside Advanced Technology Laboratories: Cybersecurity
James, a former U.S. Navy cyber expert, is now an ISSO at Advanced Technology Laboratories, where his military-honed skills help him lead in cybersecurity and protect the nation through innovation.
A Throughline of Passion for Tech
James discovered his passion for technology early in life. That curiosity became a career path when he joined the Navy, where he served as an IT specialist, cyber analyst, and RF communications expert. He even supported missions aboard a submarine, using technical expertise in high-stakes environments.
His military experience sharpened more than just his skills. It solidified his purpose. James committed himself to protecting what matters most, a commitment that continues to guide him today.
While in the Navy, he earned a bachelor’s degree in computer and information science. Now, thanks in part to Lockheed Martin’s tuition assistance programs and emphasis on lifelong learning, he is pursuing a master’s degree in cybersecurity—proof that service-driven growth does not stop at transition.
Continuing the Mission Within ATL
When James prepared to leave active duty, he focused his search on places where he could keep serving.
He found that connection at Advanced Technology Laboratories, an applied research and development center within Lockheed Martin. ATL is home to a tight-knit group of scientists and engineers who have been motivated for the last 90+ years by a common mission: Incubating transformational technologies in support of global security.
For James, this was not a new mission; it was the same mission, advanced through new tools, technologies, and teams.
And while James is continued on his cybersecurity-focused career journey, cyber is just one of the areas of focus for our ATL engineers and scientists; they also develop and apply leading edge technologies in areas of autonomy, robotics, artificial intelligence and more.
A Community That Honors Service
Lockheed Martin’s veteran support programs helped James navigate his transition. Through veteran-focused onboarding, dedicated military relations managers, and a strong internal community of former service members, he found a workplace that not only respected his background but valued it.
“I discovered a workplace where my experience and leadership weren’t just respected. They were celebrated,” James said.
Today, he supports secure systems at ATL, applying his Navy-honed skills to help Lockheed Martin stay ahead of evolving threats in the cyber domain.
Still Serving. Still Leading.
James did not leave his calling behind. He built on it. At Lockheed Martin, he continues to lead with integrity, apply his mission-first mindset, and make a real impact through his work in cybersecurity.
For veterans like James, service does not end. It evolves. Through mentorship, career growth, and mission-driven innovation, that evolution takes shape every day.
Because building the best means empowering those who have already served with purpose.