WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FOCE BASE, Ohio -- Senior Intelligence Analyst Roberto Crespo was recently honored with the prestigious STEM Hero Award by the Great Minds organization.
Crespo is a key figure in the Measurement and Signature Intelligence Analysis Squadron at the National Air and Space Intelligence Center, and his award not only celebrates his individual contributions but also reflects the significance of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) careers within NASIC and the United States Air Force.
Crespo, who began his career at NASIC in 1990 as an electronic engineer, said STEM has been a cornerstone in the organization’s mission.
“NASIC’s success and growth have been possible because of the diversity and STEM talent that has been brought in or grown internally,” he said. “STEM careers are a key necessity to continue to lead the nation and the world as a technologically advanced country.”
Motivated from a young age by a math teacher who made the subject enjoyable, Crespo pursued a degree in electrical engineering. He then completed his master’s degree in electrical engineering while working at NASIC.
"When I was interviewed for a job at NASIC, the promise that I would be using my technical expertise sold me on the opportunity to work on something that I loved and doing it for our nation," Crespo said.
The Ohio-based analyst has seized every opportunity to advance both personally and professionally.
His impact on NASIC’s mission and, by extension, the United States Air Force has been significant.
Crespo has spearheaded several initiatives, including one that involved building an automated analytical capability for processing satellite data. This effort attracted attention and funding from policymakers, establishing it as a benchmark for subsequent innovations at NASIC.
“The capability success was possible due to the diverse STEM team that worked on this project,” he said. “Engineers, mathematicians, physicists, and astronomers worked together to accomplish this task.”
Outside the professional arena, Crespo has also engaged in community outreach, particularly targeting underserved and Hispanic communities. He has advocated for STEM careers during youth camps and mission trips, aiming to inspire the next generation of STEM professionals.
"As a leader, it is my responsibility to continue to advocate for students to pursue STEM careers and to help them see all the possibilities and opportunities this can bring to their lives," Crespo said.
Regarding his recent STEM Hero Award, Crespo views it as an accolade not just for himself but for NASIC as well.
"This award is an incredible, unexpected honor,” he said. “When you love what you do, an award like this reassures you that you have been on the right path. This is also an award for NASIC.”
Crespo’s career, marked by technical expertise and a commitment to mentorship and outreach, exemplifies the ethos of both NASIC and the United States Air Force. His story serves as an inspiration to aspiring STEM professionals, affirming the impactful roles they can play in service to the nation.
For those looking to follow in his footsteps, Crespo has simple but profound advice:
“Go for it. It’s a very fulfilling career with many opportunities. If you like to be at the leading edge of technology, then you should pursue a STEM career.”