#TeamMITRE Spotlight: Andy Reyes

During Military Appreciation Month, we’re recognizing our employees who pull “double duty,” delivering impact for MITRE’s public-interest mission and serving our nation in uniform as military reservists. Meet 1st Lt. Andy Reyes.

Commissioned in 2021 out of University of Alabama’s Army ROTC program, Andy serves as a signal staff officer in the Alabama Army National Guard. It’s his job to plan and execute all aspects of communication for missions, both combat and peacetime, for U.S. and multi-national operations. Andy and his team ensure no vulnerabilities exist within battalion internal networks and that signal communications are up and running, at all times.

A first-generation American citizen, Andy appreciates that after a long immigration journey, his parents from Mexico will soon become U.S. citizens. Under the Parole in Place program, Andy has sponsored them for residency as they pursue permanent legal status.

Andy joined MITRE in 2021 and works at our Huntsville, Ala. site as a homeland security systems engineer. In that capacity, he provides technical assistance and consulting support for the design, implementation, and integration of enterprise systems and system-of-systems for our Department of Homeland Security sponsor.

The skill Andy considers most transferrable between his military service and civilian job? Leadership.

“It’s more than just managing people. It’s all these different levels of inspiring trust amongst other soldiers, making tough decisions under pressure, and putting the mission requirements and the team before yourself. These principles apply just as much at MITRE—people of all different backgrounds come together, and we have to make strategic decisions to drive impact in our work.”

We asked Andy to share some thoughts about why he serves, how his military and civilian careers complement each other, and the best advice he’s gotten so far.

Q: What is the most rewarding aspect of your military service?

AR: The opportunity to make a real difference—both in the lives of my fellow service members and in the broader mission of our country's defense. Whether it's mentoring new soldiers, deploying on federal or state mission, or being part of a team that's larger than myself, I've found immense satisfaction in the military.

Q: In what other ways do your military skillset and MITRE experience and expertise complement each other?

AR: My military skillset certainly applies to my work here at MITRE in various ways. The discipline and attention to detail required in the military are essential. The ability to work under time crunches, make quick judgments, and collaborate with colleagues are all things I learned in the military and use every day here.

And the nature of my work at MITRE keeps me at the forefront of technological advancements and innovative solutions that are relevant to national security and defense. I’m always learning and staying updated on the latest trends and strategies, which I can then apply in the Army Guard.

Q: What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received, either in your military or civilian career?

AR: Never stop learning. Whether in the military or in a civilian role, the world is constantly changing and evolving. Staying curious, open-minded, and willing to learn new things is key to staying adaptable and relevant in any field.