Daniel Pierson
Software Engineering Manager/ AI Lead @ Northrop Grumman
About
I’m a technical leader and problem solver who drives results where systems, ambiguity, and mission collide. I am a Software Manager and AI Lead at Northrop Grumman, leading a team building ground systems for space operations and driving practical AI initiatives. I enjoy solving hard, complex problems, identifying patterns others don’t see, and turning creative solutions into real-world impact. Over eight years in aerospace and defense, I’ve led multi-disciplinary teams, shaped technical strategy, and executed complex project delivery. I led mission testing and software test teams (20+ people) to ensure systems performed reliably under real operational conditions. This work required a deep understanding of both mission requirements and the limitations of our software and architecture, driving iterative improvements and strengthening system robustness. I’ve also led proposals, tested a $12M robotics refueling prototype, launched rockets, designed manufacturing sites, and developed high-rate satellite production approaches. At BAE Systems, I drove lean manufacturing improvements that saved $50M and increased throughput by 400%. I hold a Master’s in Business Analytics from NYU, a Data Science and Big Data Analytics Certificate from MIT, and a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Penn State, which built my foundation in engineering and deep problem-solving. I bring strong analytical skills and real-world systems expertise to every challenge I take on.
United States
Washington
Defense & Space
Leadership, Manufacturing Engineering, SolidWorks, Matlab, Big Data Analytics, Manufacturing Operations Management, Engineering, Microsoft Office, Management, Customer Service, Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Strategic Planning, Event Planning, Project Management, Program Management, Python, Data Analysis, SharePoint, PLM Tools
Experience

Software Engineering Manager/ AI Lead
Washington DC-Baltimore Area
• Led mission-critical system testing and operational validation for a large satellite ground system, driving cross-functional execution and system scalability. • Defined and implemented AI strategy and generative AI solutions across the organization, improving developer productivity and informing leadership decisions. • Manage a diverse team of 20 developers, testers, and UX professionals building ground systems for space operations — including hiring, performance management, and driving execution.

Principal System Engineer
• Designed and executed a manufacturing strategy for a high-rate, low-cost defense satellite production line, coordinating build processes, material planning, labor forecasting, and multi-site collaboration while managing cost performance through monthly CAMs reporting. • Led the technical solution and coordination of an $8M proposal to commercialize Low-Earth Orbit satellite manufacturing, aligning cross-functional teams and external partners.

Manufacturing Engineer
York, Pennsylvania Area
• Offered essential contributions in setting up a new plant and headed a strategy using industry best practices that increased production while cutting cost. • Designated as a subject matter expert for various technical skills; excelled as superuser of Microsoft SharePoint and Windchill Product Lifecycle Management in the design and control all material view on the floor for 3 plants. • Championed unique methods to assess complex business issues, planning and delivering custom-tailored strategy, which integrated in-depth data analysis and new technology to boost efficiency. • Chosen as lead for two new product lines on writing, updating, and optimizing manufacturing planning documentation, leading to significant gains to overall organizational coordination and policy compliance.

Technology Analyst Program Intern
Wilmington, DE
• Helmed a high-performance team of 7 to configure and evaluate Zeppelin (emerging open source tech), for a technology analytics program and pattern recognition methods. • Was a Application Developer for Chase Data Services ecosystem, the team for big data in the consumer bank section of Chase. • Excelled in an Agile team to design, integrate, and implement open source software to connect databases, demonstrating excellent knowledge of software like Hadoop, Spark, and Apache open source software.

Manufacturing Engineer / Developer
Xometry
Gaithersburg, MD
• Guaranteed flawless scheduling, completion and shipment of products using CNC machining and 3D printing. • Guided outsourcing of material transport for process specialization (metallic surface treatments), building productive relationships to ensure optimal transport costs. • Developed specialized Python scripts to efficiently run Application Program Interface (API) and Enterprise Resource Planning ERP tests for pricing algorithms for 3D printing. • Taught directly by the VP of Manufacturing how to run and manage a high-stress, safety-oriented factory floor; expanded expertise in operating saws, testing of delicate equipment, performing nondestructive examination under heavy workload, and managing other factory machines
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