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.