Dean Sawyer is an accomplished aerospace and defense professional with over 30 years of experience delivering impactful results in systems engineering, operations, and strategic planning. Specializing in purposeful results, Dean has built a career centered on transitioning experimental technologies into scalable, operational capabilities while helping organizations achieve their growth and innovation goals.
Dean’s professional journey spans two major chapters: a distinguished 20-year career as a Naval Officer and his leadership roles in the private sector. During his tenure in the United States Navy, Dean served as a Deputy Program Manager for Space Systems, where he led efforts to integrate tactical and national sensors, culminating in the delivery of the first end-to-end operational cooperative SIGINT geolocation capability. His expertise in managing multi-disciplinary teams and his dedication to excellence earned him the prestigious NRO Silver Medal in 2003.
Beyond his work in operational delivery, Dean held the critical role of Deputy Commander at the Space Control Center within the Cheyenne Mountain Operations Center. There, he directed the global evaluation and dissemination of space vehicle launches, ensuring mission readiness and combat system integration. His technical acumen also shone during his time as an Engineering Flight Test Officer, where he directed developmental testing for the S-3 Viking aircraft and its integrated weapon systems, delivering key improvements to fleet capabilities.
After retiring from the Navy, Dean transitioned to Booz Allen Hamilton, where he has spent more than 9 years driving impactful systems integration and program management initiatives. As a Capture Manager, he demonstrated his ability to identify and pursue complex systems engineering and integration opportunities for national defense programs. Notably, Dean led the strategy for delivering unsolicited proposals that addressed critical SE&I needs, showcasing his ability to anticipate and respond to emerging challenges.
In his role supporting the Security Space (NSS), Dean played a pivotal role in shaping the future of GEOINT systems, Protection systems and Communication systems by providing pre-acquisition support for cutting-edge technologies. His leadership extended to managing architecture definition efforts for space situational awareness and space mission assurance for the National Security Space Office (NSSO), further solidifying his reputation as a trusted leader in space and defense operations.
Dean’s technical expertise is underscored by an impressive academic foundation. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Aeronautical Engineering from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, a Master of Science in Aeronautical Engineering from the Naval Postgraduate School, and an MBA from Johns Hopkins University. In addition, he holds advanced certifications in program management and flight testing, further cementing his role as an authority in the aerospace and defense sectors.
A member of respected professional organizations such as the Association of Old Crows (AOC), the Project Management Institute (PMI), the International Council on Systems Engineering (INCOSE) and the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA), Dean remains committed to professional development and industry collaboration. His focus on continual learning within his field reflects his passion for staying ahead of technological advancements and applying this knowledge to drive innovation.
As Dean looks toward the next phase of his career, he is actively seeking board opportunities to bring his wealth of experience, leadership, and strategic insight to smaller companies poised for growth. With a proven track record in systems engineering, operations, and problem-solving, Dean is ready to contribute to organizations striving to navigate technical and strategic challenges in the aerospace and defense industries. His dedication to achieving purposeful results and his passion for mentoring and guiding teams make him an exceptional asset for any organization seeking to innovate and grow.
Character
Dean Sawyer embodies integrity and dedication, consistently delivering purposeful results in high-stakes environments.
Knowledge
With over 30 years of expertise in aerospace, defense, and systems engineering, Dean combines technical mastery with operational excellence.
Strategic
Dean excels in identifying growth opportunities and crafting innovative strategies to transition experimental technologies into operational capabilities.
Communication
Dean is a skilled communicator, fostering strong relationships and effectively conveying complex ideas to stakeholders and teams.
Vision:
Structure solutions for uncertain environments
Mission:
My goal is to guide development of solutions resilient to changing environments
