Tag: precise systems
#PeopleOfPrecise: Meet Traci Kettinger
At Precise Systems, our strength lies in our people. This month, we’re proud to spotlight Traci Kettinger, Program Management Analyst Senior (EEW) and Team Lead, whose work supports the mission-critical needs of today’s warfighter.
Traci’s role is centered on ensuring that the fleet is equipped with accurate configuration records for both hardware and software systems. She works closely with her team and logistics partners to provide seamless support—helping maintain operational readiness across platforms.
Her daily work directly contributes to the effectiveness of our electromagnetic warfare capabilities, which play a vital role in detecting, identifying, and countering threats in complex environments. By ensuring systems are properly configured and supported, Traci helps enable mission success across the spectrum.
What excites her most is knowing that her work makes a difference.
From logistics coordination to shipboard support, she sees firsthand how each piece contributes to the bigger picture. Her perspective reflects the collaborative nature of Precise’s work: delivering advanced capabilities requires a unified, mission-focused team.
When asked to describe Precise’s culture, Traci didn’t limit herself to three words. Instead, she captured its essence: doing the right thing when no one is watching.
That commitment to integrity is foundational—not only to how we work internally, but to how we support our customers and their missions.
Outside of her professional responsibilities, Traci has a goal that might surprise some—she hopes to become a competitor in dog shows with her dog. It’s a passion that reflects her dedication, discipline, and willingness to take on new challenges.
Traci exemplifies the expertise, teamwork, and integrity that define Precise. Her contributions ensure that critical systems remain mission-ready—supporting those who serve on the front lines.
Precise Systems Appoints Matt Burkett as Vice President of Business Development, Crane Division
Crane, Indiana — April 22, 2026 — Precise Systems, Inc., a leading provider of innovative solutions supporting the warfighter, is pleased to announce the appointment of Matt Burkett as Vice President, Business Development for its Crane Division.
In this role, Burkett will lead strategic growth initiatives, drive business development efforts, and expand partnerships across the Naval Surface Warfare Center (NSWC) Crane ecosystem and the broader Department of Defense landscape. He will play a critical role in advancing Precise Systems’ mission to deliver integrated, mission-focused solutions that strengthen national defense.
Burkett brings more than 19 years of experience in government contracting, acquisition strategy, and innovation program development. He has a proven track record of building high-impact partnerships, shaping acquisition approaches, and expanding opportunity pipelines through deep engagement with program managers, contracting officers, and industry stakeholders.
“Matt’s extensive experience within the Crane community and across the Department of the Navy positions him exceptionally well to accelerate our growth and deepen our customer relationships,” said Melissa Klingle, Senior Vice President, Crane Division. “His ability to connect innovation with mission needs and drive meaningful partnerships will be instrumental as we continue to expand our presence and capabilities in support of the warfighter.”
Prior to joining Precise Systems, Burkett served as Director of Innovation Pathways at the Applied Research Institute, where he led business development and program management for the Indiana Federal & State Technology Partnership Program (FAST). In this role, he strengthened connections between small businesses and federal acquisition teams, supported innovation-focused initiatives, and helped Indiana-based companies secure more than $25 million in SBIR/STTR awards in FY24.
Previously, Burkett spent over 15 years at NSWC Crane, serving in roles including Deputy for Small Business, Contracting Officer Team Lead, and Contract Specialist. During his tenure, he developed and executed strategies that resulted in record-setting small business contract obligations, led regional engagement efforts to strengthen the defense industrial base, and managed complex acquisition programs supporting Expeditionary Warfare and Electromagnetic Warfare missions.
Burkett holds a Master of Public Affairs from Indiana University and a Bachelor of Science in Management from Lindenwood University. He is a DAWIA Level III certified contracting professional and a warranted Contracting Officer.
“I am honored to join Precise Systems and contribute to a team that is deeply committed to mission success and supporting the warfighter,” said Burkett. “I look forward to building on the strong foundation in Crane, strengthening partnerships, and driving growth that delivers meaningful impact for our customers.”
About Precise Systems:
Precise Systems delivers integrated, mission-ready solutions that advance warfighter readiness and strengthen our nation’s most critical defense programs. Through the power of our combined capabilities, we provide deep expertise in Advanced Engineering; Digital Transformation; Electromagnetic Warfare; Interactive Training & Simulation; Physical Sciences Research; Platform Lifecycle Support; and Foreign Military Sales. Unified by decades of trusted performance and expanded through strategic growth, our team applies innovative technologies, engineering rigor, and customer-focused execution to solve complex challenges and accelerate mission success. Guided by our commitment to partnership, precision, and performance, we deliver the scalable solutions and technical excellence our customers depend on—today and into the future.
Seatrec, Precise Systems, Airtronics to Deliver Persistent Subsea Autonomous Profiler Capability for U.S. Navy
MOU establishes a manufacturing, integration, and delivery framework combining Seatrec’s ocean energy-harvesting technology with Precise Systems’ and Airtronics’ systems engineering expertise to execute highly scalable and robust PSAP mission capability
VISTA, Calif. and LEXINGTON PARK, Md.— April 16, 2026 — Seatrec, a leader in thermal-powered, long-endurance subsea drones, Precise Systems, a premier defense solutions provider, and its affiliate Airtronics, today announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to deliver Persistent Subsea Autonomous Profiler (PSAP) units in support of the U.S. Navy and other customers.
The MOU establishes a framework for partnership and collaboration among the three parties to execute and deliver PSAP units in accordance with approved program deliverables and budget. Central to the agreement is the establishment of a highly scalable manufacturing, integration, and delivery facility in Mississippi. The primary objective is to combine Seatrec’s technology with the systems engineering and manufacturing expertise of Precise Systems and Airtronics to execute and deliver a robust, persistent PSAP mission capability.
“This agreement brings together exactly the right capabilities at the right time. Seatrec’s energy-harvesting technology fundamentally changes what is possible for persistent undersea operations, and the manufacturing and systems integration depth that Precise Systems and Airtronics bring to this partnership gives us a clear path to delivering PSAP capability at the scale and reliability the Navy requires,” stated Yi Chao, Ph.D., CEO and founder of Seatrec.
Seatrec’s energy-harvesting core technology, originally developed at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory and commercialized out of the California Institute of Technology in 2016, enables subsea drones to generate electricity from naturally occurring ocean temperature gradients. This approach eliminates the endurance limitations that have historically constrained battery-powered underwater autonomous vehicles, supporting extended missions and enabling the integration of power-intensive sensors, such as hydrophones, that were previously impossible for long-duration deployments.
Precise Systems Chief Executive Officer and President, Scott Pfister, added, “Precise Systems and Airtronics are proud to anchor the manufacturing and systems integration mission for this program. Establishing a dedicated facility in Mississippi reflects our long-term commitment to building scalable, domestic defense production capacity, and our confidence that the PSAP capability we deliver together will meet the Navy’s most demanding operational requirements.”
The PSAP supports the U.S. Navy’s need for persistent, autonomous undersea profiling platforms capable of operating across a range of maritime environments. By pairing Seatrec’s renewable energy systems with the proven manufacturing and integration capabilities of Precise Systems and Airtronics, the partnership is positioned to deliver a highly scalable solution that advances undersea warfare readiness and ocean domain awareness.
This partnership is positioned to deliver a scalable solution that advances undersea warfare readiness and ocean domain awareness.
ABOUT SEATREC
Seatrec designs and manufactures subsea drones that generate electricity from ocean temperature gradients. Our products empower defense and oceanographic researchers to extend mission durations, optimize data collection, and reduce operational costs. By enabling the integration of advanced sensors previously limited in endurance and functionality, such as hydrophones, we open new possibilities for ocean science.
Seatrec’s energy-harvesting core technology was developed at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory and spun out of the California Institute of Technology in 2016. Seatrec is headquartered in Vista, California. Visit us at seatrec.com.
ABOUT PRECISE SYSTEMS
Precise Systems delivers integrated, mission-ready solutions that advance warfighter readiness and strengthen our nation’s most critical defense programs. Through combined capabilities spanning Advanced Engineering, Digital Transformation, Electromagnetic Warfare, Interactive Training & Simulation, Physical Sciences Research, Platform Lifecycle Support, and Foreign Military Sales, Precise Systems applies innovative technologies, engineering rigor, and customer-focused execution to solve complex challenges and accelerate mission success. Unified by decades of trusted performance and expanded through strategic growth, Precise Systems is guided by a commitment to partnership, precision, and performance. For more information, visit GoPrecise.com.
ABOUT AIRTRONICS
Established in 1975, Airtronics Inc. is a DOD Government Contractor, currently maintaining hundreds of prime contracts for various agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense, including the Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Defense Logistics Agency and Navy. Learn more at airtronicsinc.com.
#PeopleOfPrecise: Meet McKenna Pittman
Some stories are shaped by where you go. Others are shaped by those who show up—even when it’s hard.
For McKenna Pittman, it was both.
April is nationally recognized as the Month of the Military Child—a time to recognize the incredible strength, resilience, and everyday sacrifices of military children who stand beside those who serve. Today, we’re proud to spotlight one of our very own.
Growing up as the daughter of a U.S. Army service member, McKenna learned early what sacrifice looks like. With a father who served for 32 years, there were missed birthdays, school events, and everyday moments—but never a question of love or commitment.
Even as a young child, she felt the weight of that sacrifice. At just two years old, after her father deployed to Kuwait, she asked a simple question: “Did Dad go bye-bye?”
What followed were letters—small, heartfelt reminders that distance didn’t change connection.
At home, her mother became the constant.
Holding everything together, supporting McKenna and her sibling through every practice, performance, and milestone—her mother’s strength defined what resilience looked like day in and day out.
“People often overlook the sacrifices military spouses make,” McKenna shares. “My mom was my biggest cheerleader—and whenever he could be, my dad was right there beside her.”
That foundation shaped more than memories—it shaped mindset.
Through years of relocating across the country, McKenna grew up navigating change: new places, new people, new environments. And through it all, she learned how to adapt quickly and grow through it.
Today, that adaptability shows up in everything she does. Grounded in grit, determination, and respect, McKenna approaches her work with purpose—and a deep understanding of the mission behind it.
Because for her, supporting warfighters and their families isn’t just meaningful—it’s personal.
“Our nation’s warfighters make daily sacrifices to keep us safe,” she says. “Being part of something that supports them and their families means everything.”
Her story is a powerful reminder: service doesn’t just belong to those in uniform—it lives in the families who stand behind them.
And when asked what she would tell other military children, her answer is simple:
Write the letter.
Send the message.
Show your support.
Because even the smallest moments of connection can carry the greatest impact.
Thank you to McKenna and all of our nation’s military children for the service, strength, and support you bring to our warfighters. We see you and we salute you—today and every day!
#PeopleOfPrecise: Meet Dalton Sydnor
At Precise, our people are the driving force behind everything we do. In this edition of #PeopleOfPrecise, we’re spotlighting Dalton Sydnor, a Team Lead whose journey from intern to leader highlights the impact of mentorship, hands-on experience, and continuous growth.
Dalton began his career at Precise as a Summer Intern, where he gained real-world experience working on active projects and building meaningful connections with his team. That foundation helped launch him into the leadership role he holds today, supporting AMS Visualization efforts and ensuring both users and developers have what they need to succeed.
From navigating daily challenges to empowering his team, Dalton’s role is centered on problem-solving, communication, and mission support. He credits his internship experience with helping him develop the confidence and skills needed to lead—especially when it comes to clear, effective communication and managing complex projects.
His advice for early-career professionals is simple: embrace every opportunity, even the small tasks. They’re often the key to understanding the bigger picture and driving meaningful impact.
To learn more about Dalton’s Precise internship and who he would choose as a once-in-a-lifetime dinner guest, read his full #PeopleOfPrecise spotlight here!
Interested in starting your own journey at Precise? Explore our internship opportunities here: https://goprecise.com/join-us/#open-positions.
Summer Raley Joins Precise Systems as Vice President of Business Development for the NAVAIR Market
Lexington Park, MD — March 20, 2026 — Precise Systems has added seasoned NAVAIR leader Summer Raley as Vice President of Business Development for the Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) market.
In this role, Raley will lead strategic growth initiatives across the NAVAIR portfolio, expanding Precise Systems’ presence across aviation programs, Foreign Military Sales (FMS), sustainment, and advanced engineering efforts. She will focus on strengthening customer engagement, identifying new mission opportunities, and building strategic partnerships that support innovation and warfighter readiness.
Raley brings more than 22 years of experience supporting NAVAIR and Department of Defense programs, with deep expertise in capture strategy, business development, and operational leadership.
Prior to joining Precise Systems, Raley served as Executive Director of Operations for the FMS & Program Solutions Division at V2X/Vectrus/Zenetex, where she led a $155M+ portfolio spanning more than 50 contracts and 120 task orders with a workforce of over 400 employees supporting organizations including NAVAIR, NAWCAD, NAWCWD, NAVSEA, NAVSUP, the U.S. Marine Corps, and international partners. Her work focused on driving growth across engineering, logistics, training, sustainment, and digital transformation programs.
“Summer brings exceptional knowledge of the NAVAIR community and a strong track record of driving strategic growth,” said Matthew Orsino, Chief Growth Officer at Precise Systems. “Her experience leading complex programs and shaping winning capture strategies will help expand our presence across the naval aviation enterprise and strengthen how we support our customers’ missions.”
Earlier in her career, Raley held senior program management and business development roles supporting multiple NAVAIR program offices including PMA-280 (Tomahawk), PMA-299 (MH-60), PMA-207 (C-130), and PMA-261 (CH-53). She holds a Master’s degree from Towson University and is a certified Project Management Professional (PMP).
“Precise Systems has built a strong reputation for delivering innovative engineering and mission-focused solutions,” said Raley. “I’m excited to join the team and help drive growth that advances our customers’ missions and supports the warfighters who depend on these capabilities every day.”
About Precise Systems:
Precise Systems delivers integrated, mission-ready solutions that advance warfighter readiness and strengthen our nation’s most critical defense programs. Through the power of our combined capabilities, we provide deep expertise in Advanced Engineering; Digital Transformation; Electromagnetic Warfare; Interactive Training & Simulation; Physical Sciences Research; Platform Lifecycle Support; and Foreign Military Sales. Unified by decades of trusted performance and expanded through strategic growth, our team applies innovative technologies, engineering rigor, and customer-focused execution to solve complex challenges and accelerate mission success. Guided by our commitment to partnership, precision, and performance, we deliver the scalable solutions and technical excellence our customers depend on—today and into the future.
Precise Systems Welcomes Mike Risik as Vice President of Business Development
Lexington Park, MD — March 18, 2026 — Precise Systems is pleased to announce that Michael “Mike” Risik has joined the company as Vice President of Business Development, bringing more than two decades of engineering leadership, program execution, and strategic growth experience supporting the U.S. Navy and national defense missions.
Risik joins Precise with an exceptional background spanning naval nuclear propulsion, advanced weapons systems, and large-scale acquisition programs. He recently retired as a Captain in the United States Navy Reserve Engineering Duty Officer community after completing his final tour as Special Projects Director for the Sea-Launched Cruise Missile–Nuclear (SLCM-N) program, where he developed a five-year, $600M risk-reduction strategy supporting the broader $6B+ strategic weapons program.
In addition to his military leadership, Risik has held senior industry roles including Director of Strategic Solutions and Solution Architect at Valkyrie Enterprises, where he led strategic growth initiatives, developed capture strategies for complex technical programs, and fostered strong partnerships across government, industry, and academia.
Throughout his career, Risik has led large multidisciplinary teams and managed complex portfolios exceeding $1.5 billion in programs and projects, including his role as Deputy Commander and Chief Engineer at Naval Surface Warfare Center Port Hueneme Division, where he helped restructure and unify more than 200 personnel into a high-performing engineering and acquisition organization supporting Navy surface ship weapons systems.
“Mike brings a deep understanding of the mission, the customer, and the complex acquisition environments that shape today’s defense programs,” said Matthew Orsino, Chief Growth Officer of Precise Systems. “His technical depth, leadership experience, and strategic perspective will strengthen our ability to expand partnerships, pursue critical opportunities, and deliver innovative solutions that support the warfighter.”
Risik holds a Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Utah and a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, with a minor in mathematics. He is a Project Management Professional (PMP) and Lean/Six Sigma Green Belt.
As Vice President of Business Development, Risik will help drive growth across Precise Systems’ portfolio of advanced engineering, digital transformation, and mission-focused solutions that support critical defense and national security priorities.
About Precise Systems:
Precise Systems delivers integrated, mission-ready solutions that advance warfighter readiness and strengthen our nation’s most critical defense programs. Through the power of our combined capabilities, we provide deep expertise in Advanced Engineering; Digital Transformation; Electromagnetic Warfare; Interactive Training & Simulation; Physical Sciences Research; Platform Lifecycle Support; and Foreign Military Sales. Unified by decades of trusted performance and expanded through strategic growth, our team applies innovative technologies, engineering rigor, and customer-focused execution to solve complex challenges and accelerate mission success. Guided by our commitment to partnership, precision, and performance, we deliver the scalable solutions and technical excellence our customers depend on—today and into the future.
#PeopleOfPrecise: Meet Chris Anderson
At Precise Systems, our people are the driving force behind our mission. We’re proud to feature Chris Anderson, a member of our Recruiting team who plays an important role in connecting talented professionals—especially transitioning service members—with opportunities at Precise.
Chris supports recruiting efforts across multiple areas of the company, managing specialized opportunities in our Advanced Engineering and Physical Sciences capabilities while also serving as the primary recruiter for corporate roles. He also helps coordinate the team’s job fair schedule, helping ensure Precise maintains a strong presence at recruiting events.
In addition to Recruiting, Chris serves as Precise Systems’ SkillBridge Program coordinator, supporting service members as they transition from military service to civilian careers. He developed the program’s training plans, modules, job postings, and online resources, helping create a structured and supportive experience for SkillBridge participants.
“Hearing transitioning service members’ success stories about their time as a SkillBridge intern with us gives me great joy,” Chris says.
One of his most rewarding moments came in 2023, when Precise welcomed its first SkillBridge intern.
“The hiring of our first SkillBridge intern was seamless,” Chris explains. “That was a testament to the dedication and hard work our team put in through planning, meetings, sharing ideas, and executing.”
He is passionate about helping employers understand the value veterans bring to the workforce, noting their discipline, adaptability, and willingness to learn.
“Motivated and flexible are their primary attributes,” Chris says. “I think any employer would welcome those.”
To learn more about his role on our Recruiting team and the work he does for our SkillBridge program, read Chris’ full #PeopleOfPrecise spotlight here!
Precise Systems Awarded $102M Contract to Support Expeditionary Electromagnetic Warfare Division at NSWC Crane
Lexington Park, MD — March 10, 2026 — Precise Systems, Inc. announced today that it has been awarded a contract valued at $102,030,909.49 to provide Engineering, Technical, Logistics, and Programmatic Support Services to the Expeditionary Electromagnetic Warfare Division (Code MXQ) at Naval Surface Warfare Center (NSWC) Crane.
Under this award, Precise Systems will deliver critical engineering expertise, logistics support, and program management capabilities to advance expeditionary electromagnetic warfare technologies that strengthen mission readiness and operational effectiveness for U.S. forces.
Our work will support the development, integration, sustainment, and lifecycle management of electromagnetic warfare systems that enable warfighters to operate effectively in complex and contested environments. Precise Systems will leverage its deep expertise in electromagnetic warfare, advanced engineering, digital transformation, and platform lifecycle support to deliver innovative and mission-ready solutions.
Precise Systems continues our focus supporting the Naval Surface Warfare Center Crane Division, by enabling national security missions through advanced engineering solutions and innovative technologies that directly enhance warfighter success. “This award reflects the strength of our technical expertise and the dedication of our team supporting the electromagnetic warfare mission,” said Jay Twigg, Vice President at Precise Systems. “We are honored to support NSWC Crane and the Expeditionary Electromagnetic Warfare Division as they develop and field capabilities that ensure the warfighter maintains a decisive advantage in the electromagnetic spectrum.”
About Precise Systems:
As a solutions-based company, Precise Systems is focused on innovation in support of the warfighters and aligning our expertise to deliver the highest quality of service. Powered by our highly skilled workforces, we provide expert consultation on network and weapons systems acquisition programs, maintenance/modernization programs, and sustainment programs with solutions in Digital Transformation, Advanced Engineering, Physical Sciences Research, Platform Lifecycle Support, Electronic Warfare, Interactive Training & Simulation, and Foreign Military Sales. Since our establishment, we have demonstrated and perfected our ability to manage the customer’s needs, no matter how complex – offering exceptional service and the Precise solution. www.GoPrecise.com
Secise Awarded $64.7M U.S. Navy Corrosion Control Assistance Team (CCAT) Contract
Lexington Park, Maryland — January 20, 2026 — Secise, a joint venture between Precise Systems and Don Selvy Enterprises, has been awarded a five-year contract by the United States Navy to support the United States Navy (USN) Corrosion Control Assistance Team (CCAT) program.
The contract has a total value of $64,682,453.59 and provides critical corrosion control support services aimed at preserving fleet readiness, extending asset service life, and reducing long-term sustainment costs. Through the CCAT program, Secise will deliver expert technical assistance, inspections, training, and programmatic support to prevent and mitigate corrosion across Navy ships and systems.
“This award represents a significant milestone for Secise and reinforces the Navy’s confidence in our ability to deliver reliable, high-impact fleet readiness solutions,” said Andre Karr, Senior Vice President. “By combining Precise Systems’ strength in program execution and technical management with Don Selvy Enterprises’ deep expertise in on-site fleet support, technical insight, and Navy operations, Secise brings a disciplined, mission-focused approach that directly supports fleet readiness and operational availability.”
The CCAT contract supports the Navy’s broader efforts to improve lifecycle management, enhance safety, and ensure the long-term durability of critical assets through proactive corrosion control practices. Secise’s integrated team will work closely with Navy stakeholders to ensure compliance with established standards while delivering responsive, high-quality support across the Navy’s fleet.
“This win highlights the value of our joint venture model and our shared commitment to delivering results for the warfighter,” Karr added. “We are proud to support a program that plays a vital role in sustaining the Navy’s operational effectiveness today and into the future.”
About Secise
Secise is a joint venture between Precise Systems and Don Selvy Enterprises, providing specialized technical, engineering, and sustainment solutions in support of Department of Defense missions. Secise leverages the complementary capabilities of its parent companies to deliver dependable, mission-ready services to government customers.
About Precise Systems
As a solutions-based company, Precise Systems is focused on innovation in support of the warfighters and aligning our expertise to deliver the highest quality of service. Powered by our highly skilled workforces, we provide expert consultation on network and weapons systems acquisition programs, maintenance/modernization programs, and sustainment programs with solutions in Digital Transformation, Advanced Engineering, Physical Sciences Research, Platform Lifecycle Support, Electronic Warfare, Interactive Training & Simulation, and Foreign Military Sales. Since our establishment, we have demonstrated and perfected our ability to manage the customer’s needs, no matter how complex – offering exceptional service and the Precise solution.
About Don Selvy Enterprises, Inc.
Don Selvy Enterprises, Inc. (DSE) is an aviation and naval systems support company based out of Bel Air, Maryland, United States. DSE is a team of professionals dedicated to advancing the technological basis for maritime and aviation systems to fully exploit the tactical capabilities of Navy systems. We accomplish this by using the most qualified employees and keeping abreast of technological developments and participation on engineering and operational teams for front-line Naval aircraft, ships, and training systems. We are dedicated to providing the best technical counsel, the latest technology trends and the best qualifications in the industry.