Rob Pena
@robpena
Results-driven Senior Program Manager with extensive defense industry experience.
What I'm looking for
I am a results-driven Senior Program Manager with over 15 years of experience leading complex, multimillion-dollar defense and aerospace programs from development through production. As a U.S. Air Force veteran, I possess deep expertise in mission-critical operations and have a current active DoD Secret Security Clearance. My strategic, customer-centric leadership style allows me to align cross-functional teams and stakeholders to deliver results that meet business and contract objectives.
Throughout my career, I have built and led high-performing teams, driving operational excellence and improving execution across engineering, supply chain, and program operations. I am fully bilingual in English and Spanish, which enhances my effectiveness in diverse, global environments. Known for my strong communication skills and ability to build trusted relationships, I influence stakeholders at all levels to ensure program success.
Experience
Work history, roles, and key accomplishments
Senior Program Manager
KBR
Aug 2023 - Present (1 year 10 months)
Led the full lifecycle of multi-million-dollar defense programs for Honeywell, from concept design through qualification and full-rate production, ensuring on-time and on-budget execution. Drove program performance by managing scope, schedule, and budget while ensuring compliance with contract requirements and delivery milestones. Contributed to business growth by leading proposal development and
Program Manager
Raytheon Technologies
Apr 2021 - Jul 2023 (2 years 3 months)
Managed two classified programs with a combined multi-million-dollar portfolio, ensuring strategic alignment and execution in a secure environment. Tracked and analyzed performance metrics, including schedule, sales, profit, and cost, ensuring adherence to contractual and forecasted objectives. Applied Agile practices and executed Earned Value Management (EVM) to enhance adaptability and improve t
Engineering Manager
Gaven Industries
Mar 2020 - Apr 2021 (1 year 1 month)
Managed a program supporting HEMP (High-Altitude Electromagnetic Pulse) testing for Raytheon’s Global Aircrew Strategic Network Terminal (Global ASNT) program. Supported key program milestones, including Preliminary Design Reviews (PDR) and Critical Design Reviews (CDR), for HEMP test equipment. Oversaw day-to-day program execution, ensuring alignment with technical specifications, performance sta
Engineering Manager / Resource Manager
Raytheon Technologies
Apr 2012 - Mar 2020 (7 years 11 months)
Managed multi-million-dollar programs from initiation to execution, standardizing policies, procedures, and best practices across operations. Managed four radar programs and a team of 80+ engineers deployed across multiple international locations. Achieved a 5% operational efficiency gain by delivering enhanced engineering support, field services, and system upgrades for deployed systems.
Sr. Field Engineer
Raytheon Technologies
Apr 2008 - Apr 2012 (4 years)
Provided field support for two Air Traffic Control (ATC) radar systems across the U.S., Europe, and Southwest Asia, ensuring operational readiness in diverse environments. Diagnosed and resolved system issues using mechanical and schematic drawings, improving reliability and minimizing downtime. Conducted inspections, preventive maintenance, repairs, and equipment certifications to ensure radar sy
Education
Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework
Saint Leo University
Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA), Business Administration
Currently pursuing a Doctorate in Business Administration, focusing on advanced business theories and strategic management. This program aims to enhance leadership capabilities and critical thinking in complex organizational environments.
University of Phoenix
B.S. in Business Administration, Business Administration
Obtained a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, covering foundational business principles and practices. This degree provided a comprehensive understanding of business operations and management.
Community College of the Air Force
A.A.S in Electrical Engineer, Electrical Engineering
Earned an Associate of Applied Science in Electrical Engineering, providing a strong technical foundation in electrical systems. The coursework included practical applications and theoretical knowledge relevant to the field.
Florida International University
Master in Business Administration (MBA), Business Administration
Completed a Master of Business Administration, gaining expertise in various aspects of business management and leadership. The curriculum covered strategic planning, financial management, and organizational behavior.
Tech stack
Software and tools used professionally
Availability
Location
Authorized to work in
Job categories
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