People of NRL: Anna Stumme

Say hello to U.S. Naval Research Laboratory, Electronics Engineer, Anna Stumme!

Title:?U.S. Naval Research Laboratory Electronics Engineer, Antenna Section (5317), Radar Analysis Branch (5310), Radar Division (5300)

Education:?Ph.D. candidate in Electrical Engineering, Penn State University (Current)

M.S. - Electrical Engineering, Catholic University of America (2019)?

B.S. in Electrical Engineering, Catholic University of America (2017)

What was your career path prior to your current position: Prior to my current position I was finishing up my undergraduate studies at Catholic University of America and I was an intern in the Antenna Section (5317).

What inspired you to pursue your particular field: I didn’t know what type of electrical engineering I wanted to do while in undergrad. During my internship, I enjoyed learning and experiencing all aspects of the antenna design process which lead to me wanting to stay in this field and at the Lab. I like the balance of analytical and hands-on work.

How does your work impact the Navy’s mission: I design and prototype antenna/array apertures for different naval applications. My recent focus has been increasing internal additive manufacturing (AM) capabilities to use in various projects and concepts such as multi-function arrays, radar apertures, and low-cost Electronic Warfare (EW) decoys. By utilizing AM to fabricate for antennas it helps keep cost and lead times down to maximize the prototyping process and efficiently utilize sponsor funds.

What’s the most promising new development you’re working on in your field: After successfully demonstrating multiple AM array apertures as a low cost, lightweight, rapid fabrication alternative to traditional machining my research is now looking to extend into designing antenna apertures that take full advantage of the benefits offered by AM. Additionally, quantifying the different AM processes as it relates to radio frequency (RF) performance so engineers can make informed decisions on what AM process is best for their design. As part of this research, I’m looking into expanding our AM capabilities to start an AM lab within our section to expand our fabrication and prototyping in-house.

How I came to be a U.S. Naval Research Laboratory employee: I started at NRL as an intern through the Pathways Internship Program. After finishing my bachelor’s I was converted to a full-time employee.

What I like best about working at the U.S. Naval Research Laboratory: I work with really great people who have supported me and taught me so much, I wouldn’t be where I am today without them. I also have had support in pursuing higher education through the Edison program which has bettered my abilities and knowledge in my field.

Pivotal Career Moments/Experiences: NRL press release on the AM array work getting picked up by multiple popular 3D printing sites.?Read the story here: New NRL 3D-printed antenna designs reduce cost, weight and size > U.S. Naval Research Laboratory > NRL News (navy.mil) .