Nomineer Spotlight – Sandi Mihaylova, Mission Ops
Former operations research in United States Air Force
Q: Tell us about your professional background.
A: I was in the Air Force for ten years and most of my work centered around the development and deployment of new technology and software. I’ve spent time at NSA, DIU and the Maui High Performance Computing Center working in various domains including cyber, logistics, mission planning, and space domain awareness. Beyond that, career highlights include serving on the faculty at the Air Force Academy and a deployment with NATO.
Q: What are you excited to “run with” at Nominal?
A: Nominal is well-positioned to both advance commercial technologies and ensure their effectiveness for national defense. There is potential here to set a new standard, break the “producer-consumer” mold that has characterized DoD acquisition, and usher in a more collaborative and productive partnership between industry and the DoD. I’m excited to leverage my background to realize that potential.
Q: Why did you choose to join Nominal?
A: Considering potential next steps after ten years in the military, there were some things I was looking to change (no big bureaucracies), and others that I wanted to maintain (being a part of a mission-driven organization). Nominal met these criteria and more. From talent to product, I think Nominal has gotten the formula right and it’s an exciting place to be!
Q: How would you describe your first impression of working at Nominal?
A: Everyone is bright and talented, but also collaborative and humble and kind.
Q: What is one thing you are obsessed with?
A: The interesting answer is surfing - it’s been a lot of fun to learn a new sport as an adult and I always make an effort to go when conditions are good. That said, the more honest answer is my cat, Hina.
Q: How do you stay grounded?
A: Anything active in nature - hiking, surfing, mountain biking makes me feel good.