Jacob Thurman

My tenure at General Dynamics Mission Systems showcases continuous professional growth driven by exceptional performance and recognition from my peers and superiors.

In November 2022, I was promoted to Deputy Program Manager of Engineering, with the additional role of Chief Engineer. Now fully leading the program, I oversee platform design, manage project schedules, tasks, and risks, and serve as the technical point of contact. I continue to train team members, fostering continuous learning and project alignment.

In April 2021, I became Product Manager and Systems Technical Lead for the program, handling software development, hardware testing, integration, documentation, and demonstrations. I managed system installations, customer site surveys, and partner coordination. By creating an emergency power-off utility in Bash and enhancing platform capabilities, I solidified my reputation as a reliable and innovative leader.

After a year of training in advanced electronics and networking, basic submarine training, and Sonar theory, I was stationed onboard the USS Annapolis. I quickly became accustomed to submarine life and soon earned my warfare designation, a/k/a Dolphins.

Over the summer of 2011, I attended the Navy’s SCUBA diving school in Panama City, Florida. There, I was certified as a SCUBA diver and Rescue Swimmer, and was awarded the Diver warfare designation.

While on an overseas deployment in 2012, I completed my qualifications for Sonar Supervisor. A prestigious qualification, and rare for one to complete during their first tour of duty, the Sonar Sup is overall responsible for the safety of the submarine while at-sea. As a Sonar Supervisor, I managed a team of 20 sailors, ensuring daily tasks and safety operations were executed efficiently.

My additional roles included qualifying as a QA work center supervisor, conducted SCUBA diving operations, served as the Ship’s Calibration Program Coordinator, developed and led departmental trainng, and continuing to uphold standards of performance excellence and mission readiness.

Established in 1890 as Post College, Post is a private university in Waterbury, Connecticut.

With most of my general education completed through military education and a year studying at the University of Connecticut, I focused on core degree requirements at Post. By taking a mix of on-campus and online courses, plus attending summer semesters, I was able to complete my degree within 1.5 years, while also balancing a full time job.