Megan Driggers

Most try to stay on land, but Megan Driggers is diving below the surface to enable next-generation technologies for our Nation’s Warfighters. Megan focuses on underwater imaging using a high-power laser to support the Naval Sea Systems Command, Naval Surface Warfare Center, Panama City Division. Her current efforts aid in redesigning existing systems to mimic current functionality while reducing the weight, size, and required power. Through her work, Megan has also become a certified technical laser safety officer. Megan also thrives in the air, working on unmanned aerial vehicles. On this project, Megan customized commercial-off-the-shelf sensors to increase the functionality of optical sensors. Within her first month on the project, Megan identified the best camera choice and worked with end-users to increase user experience. Megan was inspired to apply for the SMART Scholarship by her father, who she also says is her biggest hero. Her father, who holds a Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, served the Department of Defense for over 22 years as a Naval Reserve Officer and then in the Senior Executive Service. Megan said, “Growing up around my Dad’s passion for his work for the Department of Defense has had a huge impact on my life. I knew from a young age that I also wanted to major in Electrical Engineering and to work for the DoD. Once I turned 18, I applied for the SMART scholarship (which I heard about from my Dad) and I never looked back!”