Anita Nixon | Research Institute For Tactical Autonomy

Photo by Mia M. Johnson/Jackson State University

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From April 7–9, the Research Institute for Tactical Autonomy (RITA) hosted its first symposium as part of the Association for the Advancement of Artificial Intelligence Spring Symposium Series in Burlingame, California. The three-day event, titled Advances in AI-Enabled Tactical Autonomy: From Sensing to Execution, convened researchers, engineers, and practitioners from academia, government, and industry to explore how emerging AI technologies are shaping autonomous systems in real-world environments.

The path into research and autonomy was unexpected for Trinity Bowling, senior computer science student at Bowie University. Through her work with RITA, she has gained hands-on experience, expanded her technical skillset, and built the confidence to pursue a future in machine learning and robotics.

Howard University Associate Professor of Mathematics, Dr. Henok Mawi explores how mathematical tools can be used to better understand and solve complex real-world problems. In addition to his research, Dr. Mawi is dedicated to mentoring students and preparing the next generation of mathematicians and researchers.

At the intersection of human-centered computing and tactical autonomy, Dr. Armisha Roberts is building technologies designed not just to advance innovation, but to protect people. A Research Scientist at Howard University, Dr. Roberts brings a deeply personal mission to her work: ensuring that emerging AI systems support safe, timely decision-making in high-stakes environments.

Bowie State University Computer Science major Makayla Lomax is building confidence and hands-on research experience at RITA. From learning Python to solving challenging problems, she’s preparing for a future career in data science.

Dr. Jeremy Blackstone is an assistant professor in Howard University’s Electrical Engineering and Computer Science department, where he blends expertise in cybersecurity, embedded systems, and AI with a passion for mentoring the next generation of researchers. His work with RITA supports critical advances in communication, accuracy, and precision across systems that directly impact Air Force capabilities.

Dr. Bo Yang, Professor of Computer Science at Bowie State University, whose work bridges advanced artificial intelligence research, student mentorship, and real-world impact. Appointed by Maryland Governor Wes Moore to the Workgroup on Artificial Intelligence Implementation, Dr. Yang brings expertise in big data, language models, and trustworthy AI to both public policy and RITA UARC research.

From mathematics to engineering, Dr. Mandoye Ndoye has built a career centered on impactful research and student mentorship. As a professor at Tuskegee University, he contributes to RITA’s mission through work in digital signal processing and autonomous systems.

For PhD student Doron Reid, RITA has been both a challenge and a turning point. Funded through the program, he returned to Howard University and quickly became involved in hands-on research. Reed hopes to use his journey to inspire young students to explore their creativity through STEM and research.

At Hampton University, Dr. Demetris Geddis, Assistant Dean and Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering, blends his engineering expertise with a deep passion for mentorship and research. He has played a key role in shaping Hampton’s contributions to RITA and sees autonomy research as an area poised for significant national impact. Geddis believes that giving students meaningful research experiences is essential to preparing the next generation of STEM leaders.

As a long-time AIAA member, Dr. David Casbeer leads AFRL’s UAV Cooperative and Intelligent Control Team, driving advancements in autonomous technologies that strengthen future Air Force missions.

Matthew Little is a senior computer science major at Delaware State University. He reflects on his early experiences at RITA, where collaboration and mentorship have already shaped his growth as a researcher. These experiences have also fueled his ambition to pursue graduate studies and future innovation.

Dr. Anietie Andy is the lead on one of the task order projects and is an Assistant Professor in Howard University’s Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science. In this spotlight, he shares how curiosity and collaboration shape his approach to artificial intelligence.

Dr. Gloria Washington, Associate Professor of Computer Science at Howard University and Principal Investigator with RITA, focuses on human-centered computing and deepfake voice detection. Her work protects critical systems while guiding students to combine creativity and technology in their own careers.

Dr. Darsana Josyula, Professor of Computer Science at Bowie State University, was recently awarded the Elkins Professorship by the University System of Maryland. A leader in AI and autonomous systems, she is recognized for both her research and the vibrant community she has built in her lab.

Howard University partnered with Amazon Web Services to host the first-ever AWS Machine Learning University Educator Bootcamp, training more than 200 faculty from 35 institutions to integrate AI and ML into their classrooms.

Florida Memorial Student, Amauri Straford shares his experience working alongside RITA researchers, the guidance he received from RITA staff, and how the internship has shaped […]