Jilliann Ann C.

About Jilliann Ann C.

I am a Project Manager at MDA Space leading the execution of flight software, autonomy, and systems integration for the Aurora and Lightspeed satellite programs. My role blends technical fluency with structured program leadership, allowing me to connect engineering detail with program execution, risk awareness, and clear communication. My background is rooted in spacecraft systems engineering. Before program management, I worked directly with GN & C logic, EPS, TTC, telemetry flows, and spacecraft autonomy behaviors. I supported autonomy rule writing, system-level verification, test validation, and cross-discipline troubleshooting. This experience allows me to understand how each subsystem contributes to mission success and it shapes the way I support engineering teams today. In my current role, I drive day-to-day alignment across all subsystems. I manage development timelines, sprint cycles, design reviews, risks, and critical path schedules using Primavera, Windchill, RV & S, JIRA, and Confluence. Whether coordinating interface updates, clarifying requirements, supporting test campaigns, or resolving discrepancies between systems and software teams, I focus on providing clarity, structure, and direction. Much of my day is spent facilitating conversations that keep cross-functional teams moving in the same direction. I lead recurring technical syncs, address blockers, support root cause analysis, and ensure deliverables stay aligned with system requirements. I translate engineering discussions into actionable program decisions, communicate risks early, and maintain visibility for leadership through structured reporting and dashboards.I believe strong project leadership requires a balance of technical understanding, clear communication, calm decision-making, and a human-first approach. Engineers do their best work when they feel supported, informed, and respected. My goal is to remove ambiguity, strengthen accountability, and keep collaboration across disciplines healthy and productive. I hold an Active Top Secret clearance (pursuing SCI) and work effectively across both Agile and waterfall environments. Colleagues describe me as organized, direct, empathetic, technically fluent, and steady under pressure someone who brings order, clarity, and momentum to complex programs. I’m driven by meaningful work: building spacecraft that expand what’s possible, and building strong teams capable of delivering them. My career blends engineering insight with leadership, and I’m passionate about supporting people while delivering programs that shape the future of space.

Experience

1. Project Manager

   MDA Space

   Jan 2024 — Present

Education

• Niagara University

  Aerospace, Aeronautical and Astronautical/Space Engineering

• Cornell University

  Certificate, Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies

• Tompkins Cortland Community College

  Associate of Arts and Sciences - AAS, Computer Engineering

• Massachusetts Institute of Technology

  Phd, Aerospace, Aeronautical and Astronautical/Space Engineering