CAE Tampa

We had the opportunity recently to sit down with Roni Huskey, IT Infrastructure Group Lead in Tampa, FL and talk to her about her career journey with CAE USA.

At CAE, we take pride in watching our employees grow and develop their skills and knowledge and in watching their careers flourish.

Asking Roni what a typical day looks like as an IT Infrastructure Group Lead, she excitedly shares not only insights into the role and responsibilities but also its importance to CAE’s day-to-day operations.

“My primary role is to ensure the secure and efficient management of data accessibility within the organization. I collaborate with cross-functional teams to provide technical expertise and support in data access-related matters, including file and folder permissions, MFA (Multi-Factor Authentication) and SSO (Single Sign-On). With that, I’m responsible for CAE USA’s enterprise backup solution for both on-premises and cloud resources and that data across the organization is backed up daily, ensuring the availability and integrity of the data in the event of a disaster.

Roni is dedicated to CAE’s mission, driving the adoption and optimization of services to enhance agility by encouraging collaboration and knowledge sharing. Day after day she is ensuring the availability, reliability, and security of the organization’s data, computing resources, and infrastructure.

I am also responsible for the design, implementation and maintenance of CAE USA’s cloud infrastructure while working closely with our engineering teams to assist with developing and executing their cloud strategy. I ensure that CAE has access to its cloud resources which includes the secure operation of Office365 (O365) email services, including email administration, configuration, security, and user support. As well as providing support of Microsoft Teams which fosters effective collaboration throughout the organization, my responsibilities also cover the efficient and reliable operation of servers, storage, and virtualization technologies in CAE’s data centers across nine different sites, which include Arlington, Binghamton, Broken Arrow, Chantilly, Dothan, Oklahoma City, Orlando, Pueblo, and Tampa.” says Roni Huskey.

Aside from her daily duties, Roni is the Treasurer for the US Professional Women’s Network (PWN) at CAE. PWN is a network for women to foster personal and professional growth, aligning with CAE USA’s core values – Excellence, Integrity, Empowerment, Innovation and OneCAE. Roni has been an integral part of this organization for over 4 years. “I love networking with the group. I also love the speakers that we bring on and the opportunity to participate in different workshops,” says Roni.

CAE prioritizes and supports employees in advancing their education, fostering both personal and professional development.

While dedicating her time to her team and the PWN, Roni is also continuing her education by pursuing her Master of Information Systems degree with a concentration in Project Management. “I would like to continue to grow and enhance my skills and knowledge to be more efficient when it comes to the projects, I am responsible for,” says Roni.

As we closed out our discussion with Roni, we asked her what she is most proud of in her career at CAE.

After 22 years of service at CAE, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to Roni not only for her continuous dedication to her position but also for helping CAE advance its mission of helping prepare defense forces with the skills and experience to succeed in their mission.

“I am most proud of implementing a cloud migration strategy for the organization. The migration involved transitioning critical applications such as email and infrastructure from on-premises servers to a cloud-based platform to achieve significant cost savings and eliminate expensive hardware purchases, maintenance and upgrades where possible. CAE USA benefits from improved cost predictability and scalability. It also enables my team to respond quickly to business demands by provisioning resources on-demand, scaling applications and adapting to changing requirements.” says Roni.

CAE USA is currently hiring across the USA. If you are interested in pursuing a career with CAE and learning more about our open positions, visit our website https://www.cae.com/cae-usa/careers-at-cae-usa/ or email Tumas Williams

Charting your career path from Co-Op to full-time employee

CAE is proud to offer a comprehensive co-op/internship opportunity for college students to obtain hands-on experience in their field of study, which can serve as a steppingstone to securing a full-time position.

Meet Dylan Istre, a West Virginia University (WVU) graduate, who received his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration – Finance in May 2023. During his time at WVU, Dylan secured a Financial Planning & Analysis Co-Op position with CAE, where he was able to expand his expertise and knowledge. Upon graduating, Dylan moved to Tampa, Florida where he began working for CAE full-time as a Financial Analyst.

In his position at CAE, Dylan is surrounded by top performers who push him daily to strive even higher. As Dylan tells us, “It’s had a huge influence on my growth. In my position, I have a lot of autonomy and impact. I’m working with Program Managers and collaborating with teams, who have given me a ton of freedom to make a lot of big decisions.”

Dylan was in the U.S. Army National Guard for six years while in school and was deployed overseas for one year during that time. “Our country and military are very important to me. Even though I am out of the Army, I am able to use my knowledge and expertise to support the Warfighter,” says Dylan.

Supporting CAE’s mission today, Dylan’s advice to someone considering a career at CAE is to be passionate and to find your purpose in the work you do.

Focusing on being purposeful and intentional provided Dylan the opportunity to conduct the first-ever baseline presentation to multiple CAE leaders including Vice President, Nick Coucoules. Although still learning the job at the time, this memorable moment stood out for Dylan and gave him a great sense of accomplishment.

Knowing the significance CAE’s teams place on career development and mentorship as new employees enter our workforce, Nick Coucoules shared his thoughts on Dylan’s overall work performance, “Dylan has been an asset to our team as he brings enthusiasm, professionalism, and a burning desire to learn and succeed. I look forward to witnessing the progress and growth in his bright career.”

Are you interested in working at CAE in Tampa, FL? Contact Myesha Smith - [email protected]

A Day in the Life of a Quality Specialist

At CAE, quality assurance is crucial as it ensures that our products and services meet predetermined standards of quality, reliability, and performance. It takes a collaborative effort from our dedicated quality team. Each member plays a vital role in upholding standards and continuously improving our processes.

Meet Katelyn Kans, a Quality Specialist at CAE USA’s Tampa, FL location. From conducting internal audits to managing the internal document library, Katelyn’s role is multifaceted and essential to ensuring compliance with Quality standards, particularly AS9100 certification.

Katelyn enjoys the team environment at CAE, getting to travel to CAE locations and to see first-hand the training operations and programs that she audits. Talking about her average workday, she tells us that it really depends on the time of year.

“The Quality Management System team has what we call an “audit season” which is a busy season for when we travel to do audits. There is however a “slower season” where we’re home, and I am revising documents and getting them published to the internal document library. This is the time that we plan and prepare for the audits that we will be performing throughout the year. If there are corrective actions, there is follow up on those too,” says Katelyn Kans.

Katelyn’s journey at CAE began as an intern while studying at Saint Leo University. Though she went on to become a teacher following graduation in 2015, the groundwork she laid while being an intern gave her the experience and connections that drew her back to the company, where she found a supportive environment for growth and development.

Each encounter within the business allows for our employees to broaden their perspectives and gain more insight and knowledge. As a result, they can contribute meaningfully to the overall success of the CAE.

Katelyn’s role as an internal auditor has not only deepened her understanding of Quality but also provided insights into other areas of CAE.

“I have been given chances for growth and I have been provided experience in Quality. Being an internal auditor has opened my eyes a little more to the other areas of the business and has provided me with some areas that I would like to see my career continue and flourish,” says Katelyn

Communication has emerged as one of Katelyn’s most valuable skills, cultivated through her interactions within the company and beyond. However, it is CAE's mission and its dedication to supporting the training of U.S. military service members that holds a special significance for her. As a member of a Navy family, Katelyn takes immense pride in her role in contributing to the safety and readiness of military personnel.

“I come from a Navy family and knowing that I am supporting other military families by working as part of a team training their loved ones and getting them safely home means the world to me,” Katelyn concludes.

Seeking to make a meaningful impact? Contact Myesha Smith Smith to explore our career opportunities. - [email protected]

In the fast-paced world of professional development, stories of determination and growth often stand out as examples of inspiration. Such is the case with Mathew Kinsey, Integration Specialist at CAE USA in Tampa, FL, whose journey from being an intern to full-time at CAE is a testament to dedication and ambition.

Mathew graduated from the University of South Florida (USF) in 2019 with a Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering. During his last two semesters at USF, Mathew interned at CAE as an Integration Specialist and was given the opportunity to join full-time in Tampa, FL.

“During my time at CAE, I’ve gained a lot of extra knowledge, especially with networking and cybersecurity. CAE has helped me get my security plus certification and helped me grow my knowledge base,” says Mathew Kinsey, Integration Specialist, CAE Tampa, FL.

During his time as a full-time employee, Mathew has traveled to multiple countries for work, including Poland, France, and Australia. Now, Mathew faces an exciting new chapter in his career, the opportunity to become a Tech Lead working with our team in Australia. This opportunity not only speaks to his exceptional performance but also highlights CAE’s dedication to nurturing talent and providing avenues for professional growth.

Embarking on this international assignment, Mathew carries with him the lessons learned and experiences gained throughout his four-year journey with CAE USA. We wish Mathew every success in his new role and look forward to witnessing his continued growth and success at CAE.

Are you interested in working at CAE in Tampa, FL? Contact Myesha Smith - [email protected]

Kassie Price works for CAE USA as a Program Manager for the KDAM ATARS program at Kirtland Air Force Base in New Mexico.

Embarking on her career journey with CAE immediately after graduating from Longwood University in 2016, Kassie first stepped into the role of Program Coordinator, and then through serving in various roles on the KDAM ATARS program, was promoted to her current position as Program Manager.

“I’m most proud of having the opportunity to serve in various roles on the KDAM ATARS program. I’ve continued to work my way up and it’s been rewarding to witness this program in different stages of my career and be able to understand how all the pieces come together for success. I’ve gotten to see all sides, including external/customer facing and internal, and I’ve experienced different aspects of the program, while working with an amazing team.” says Kassie Price

We asked Kassie to share with us her experience at CAE and how it has positively impacted her professional growth.
“Working for CAE has been amazing. There are tons of opportunities within the organization. It has really helped me build my self-confidence and professional growth.” says Kassie

CAE contributes to the development of an organizational culture that promotes the development of women as professionals at all levels. For Kassie, CAE’s culture has allowed her to join The A Effect Ambition Challenge, which is an exceptional development opportunity to learn how to better communicate ambition, achieve professional goals, and maximize potential through 3 pillars: self-confidence, risk-taking and influence. Kassie also had the opportunity to join 34 women from across CAE and take part in the DARE program. A year-long, CAE original, program where women are nominated by their leadership and provided the opportunity to recognize and unleash their career ambitions and maximize the impact they have at CAE by taking ownership of their career.

At CAE, we prioritize the success of our employees, offering them the necessary tools and resources to thrive in both their professional and personal growth journeys.

“CAE’s culture is very caring. People are the lifeblood of the company. We promote inclusivity and ensure that everyone is dedicated to the mission. You are truly a name and not a number. They understand if something comes up and I need to take time off.” says Kassie

With Kassie’s career journey starting right out of college, we asked what advice she has for graduating students to be successful in their job search.
“Don’t be afraid to reach out to people. Put in the extra work and go out of your way to make connections. For landing your first job, be a sponge and try to absorb as much knowledge as possible. Make your wants for the future known and where you want to go. Making it known is important.” says Kassie

We are proud of Kassie’s remarkable growth within CAE. As she continues to evolve professionally, we eagerly anticipate witnessing her future achievements and the positive influence she will continue to bring to our organization.

Are you interested in working at CAE in Tampa, FL? Contact Myesha Smith - [email protected]