Brothers in Aerospace and Defense
”Brothers in Aerospace and Defense” is a podcast that delves deep into the world of aerospace and defense with a unique perspective. Together, we’ll explore the fascinating intersection of technology and business in this dynamic industry. Our goal is to shed light on the achievements, challenges, and inspiring stories of black executives in aerospace and defense. In each episode, we’ll invite prominent guests who have made significant contributions to the field. We’ll also discuss current trends, innovations, and the future of aerospace and defense.
Episodes

Monday Mar 17, 2025
Ep. 12: Brothers in Aerospace & Defense – Special Edition from NSBE 2025
Monday Mar 17, 2025
Monday Mar 17, 2025
Welcome to a special edition of Brothers in Aerospace & Defense, recorded live at NSBE 2025! In this episode, we explore cutting-edge advancements in aerospace, energy, and defense with leaders from NSBE’s Special Interest Groups (SIGs). Our powerhouse panel shares insights on industry challenges, career strategies, and how Black engineers are shaping the future.
Hear them discuss:
The latest breakthroughs in aerospace and defense technology
How energy innovation is driving the next generation of engineering
the role of AI, quantum computing, and digital transformation in these industries
How NSBE’s global outreach initiatives are making an impact
Career strategies for Black engineers navigating leadership and technical roles
Special Guests:
🎙️ Enanga Daisy Fale – Director, Aerospace Special Interest Group
🎙️ Natasha Herring – Director, Energy SIG
🎙️ Seth Graham – Program Chair, Young Technical Professionals SIG
Resources & Links:🔗 Learn more about NSBE: https://nsbe.org/
Connect with us:
DeWayne Allen on Linkedin
Robert Wesley on Linkedin
Subscribe to our Newsletter:
The StoryTeller by DeWayne Allen
Autonomous Platforms of the Future by Robert Wesley

Thursday Feb 20, 2025
Ep. 11: Navigating this New Space
Thursday Feb 20, 2025
Thursday Feb 20, 2025
In this special episode, hosts DeWayne Allen and Rob Wesley tackle a crucial and timely discussion—how professionals in the aerospace and defense industry can navigate the elimination of DEI initiatives. For over two decades, DEI programs have fostered mentorship, created opportunities, and strengthened the pipeline for Black technical talent. With recent policy changes leading to their reduction or elimination, many professionals are asking: What’s next? How do we continue to excel and support the next generation?
Connect with us:
DeWayne Allen on Linkedin
Robert Wesley on Linkedin
Subscribe to our Newsletter:
The StoryTeller by DeWayne Allen
Autonomous Platforms of the Future by Robert Wesley

Monday Feb 03, 2025
Ep. 10: 2024 Year in Review
Monday Feb 03, 2025
Monday Feb 03, 2025
In this special episode, hosts DeWayne Allen and Rob Wesley take a deep dive into the most impactful events in the aerospace and defense industry in 2024. From groundbreaking technological advancements to sustainability efforts and workforce developments, this episode highlights the key moments shaping the future of the industry. Plus, a look ahead at what’s coming in 2025!
Connect with us:
DeWayne Allen on Linkedin
Robert Wesley on Linkedin
Subscribe to our Newsletter:
The StoryTeller by DeWayne Allen
Autonomous Platforms of the Future by Robert Wesley

Tuesday Nov 26, 2024
Ep. 9: Sustainability and Green Innovation in Aerospace
Tuesday Nov 26, 2024
Tuesday Nov 26, 2024
In this episode, hosts Dewayne Allen and Rob Wesley delve into the latest innovations and trends within the aerospace and defense industry. They discuss the increasing focus on sustainability, highlighting groundbreaking technological advancements in electric propulsion and hydrogen-based fuel systems. Key newsmakers include the U.S. Army's autonomous surveillance drone and NASA's Artemis 3 lunar mission preparations. Throughout the episode, they cover the technical and business challenges and opportunities presented by green aviation initiatives, emphasizing the potential for reduced carbon footprints and the future of sustainable air travel.
Connect with us:
DeWayne Allen on Linkedin
Robert Wesley on Linkedin
Subscribe to our Newsletter:
The StoryTeller by DeWayne Allen
Autonomous Platforms of the Future by Robert Wesley

Tuesday Oct 01, 2024
Ep. 8: Navigating the Aerospace Customer Landscape
Tuesday Oct 01, 2024
Tuesday Oct 01, 2024
In this episode, hosts Dewayne Allen and Rob Wesley dive into the intersection of technology and business within the dynamic aerospace and defense industry. They discuss major events and newsmakers from September 2024, including the Global Aerospace Summit, India's successful drone flight, and NASA's Earth Science Mission. They explore each agency's unique missions, technical needs, business priorities, and current challenges, such as NASA's ambitious Artemis program.
Connect with us:
DeWayne Allen on Linkedin
Robert Wesley on Linkedin
Subscribe to our Newsletter:
The StoryTeller by DeWayne Allen
Autonomous Platforms of the Future by Robert Wesley

Tuesday Aug 27, 2024
Ep. 7: Exploring Defense Intelligence Agency and Industry Trends
Tuesday Aug 27, 2024
Tuesday Aug 27, 2024
In this engaging episode, DeWayne Allen and Rob Wesley delve into the intricate world of the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA). They also provide a detailed look into the future of technology in intelligence operations, emphasizing the importance of AI, machine learning, and autonomous technologies. They highlight how these advancements can enhance situational awareness, operational efficiency, and safety while reducing costs.
Connect with us:
DeWayne Allen on Linkedin
Robert Wesley on Linkedin
Subscribe to our Newsletter:
The StoryTeller by DeWayne Allen
Autonomous Platforms of the Future by Robert Wesley

Tuesday Jul 30, 2024
Ep. 6: Career Success in the Aerospace and Defense Industry
Tuesday Jul 30, 2024
Tuesday Jul 30, 2024
"Understanding your value to the business is crucial for career growth in the aerospace and defense industry."
In this engaging episode, DeWayne Allen and Rob Wesley delve deep into the world of aerospace and defense industry career success. They discuss essential strategies such as getting depth and breadth in your field, creating a personal board of directors, transitioning to a managerial role, understanding your value to the business, and learning the language of finance.
Connect with us:
DeWayne Allen on Linkedin
Robert Wesley on Linkedin
Subscribe to our Newsletter:
The StoryTeller by DeWayne Allen
Autonomous Platforms of the Future by Robert Wesley

Thursday Jul 11, 2024
Ep. 5: Advancements in Autonomous Sea Platforms and Communication Technologies
Thursday Jul 11, 2024
Thursday Jul 11, 2024
"Autonomous technologies continue to be the fastest growing product in the industry, spanning from commercial seafloor mapping to military applications like mine countermeasures."
In this engaging episode, DeWayne Allen and Rob Wesley delve deep into the world of aerospace and defense technology, focusing on the latest advancements within the marine and deep-sea autonomous platforms. From discussing SpaceX's pivotal contract for de-orbiting the ISS to exploring Northrop Grumman's innovative B-21 Raider program, the episode offers a comprehensive look at the cutting-edge developments shaping the industry. They dissect the impact of the federal defense budget on these technologies, highlighting the crucial role of autonomous capabilities in enhancing maritime security and surveillance.
Connect with us:
DeWayne Allen on Linkedin
Robert Wesley on Linkedin
Subscribe to our Newsletter:
The StoryTeller by DeWayne Allen
Autonomous Platforms of the Future by Robert Wesley