Captain Deion Hardy of the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center, and Daquan Styles, an on-site installation coordinator attached to the U.S. Navy’s largest fleet concentration area, will both receive the Most Promising Engineer Award at the 2022 BEYA STEM Conference in February. The award is given to an early-career professional who demonstrates tremendous potential for future technical contributions.

During the pandemic, Styles took on combat system computer program installations aboard several aircraft carriers and amphibious ships. Despite Covid-19-related challenges, he spearheaded Ship Self Defense System (SSDS) software installations aboard four Navy amphibious assault ships and three aircraft carriers. Styles is credited with resolving over 150 interface issues. He single-handedly ensured the USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) SSDS upgrade remained on schedule.

“Beyond Daquan’s bravery over the past year, he is a high performer and trailblazer amongst his peers for whom he sets the bar and then works tirelessly to help others cross it,” said Tara Lalonde, combat systems readiness division head. “In every example of great achievement I can provide for him, there is another in which he has mentored or coached a teammate to great success. I can think of no other individual within our organization more deserving of this nomination and consideration for the award.”

Captain Deion Hardy is involved in the design and engineering problems encountered in the development of target systems or modifications assigned to the Armament Directorate. Currently, Hardy serves as QF-16 deputy lead engineer. The QF-16 Aerial Target will provide the next generation of combat training and testing for U.S. warfighters. Hardy plans, monitors, and controls engineering efforts in the QF-16 branch.

Prior, he produced scientific and technical intelligence for the warfighter, acquisition community, and policymakers while in the Foreign Material Exploitation Squadron in the National Air and Space Intelligence Center at the Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Ohio.

“Captain Hardy exemplifies the Air Force mission with his dedication and unique talents. He has exhibited superb leadership and technical skills as deputy lead engineer for the $1.4 billion Full-Scale Aerial Targets program,” said Bridget L. Smith, NH-04, USAF.