Rafael Nina

About Rafael Nina

Mission-focused Systems Engineer supporting Lockheed Martin’s F-35 Mission Planning Environment (MPE) programs. I work on the integration, testing, and sustainment of mission-critical systems that directly support warfighter readiness and operational success.With a background spanning DoD system integration, simulation environments, and cybersecurity, I bring hands-on experience in validating complex systems, supporting classified networks, and ensuring platforms meet performance, security, and compliance requirements. My career includes work on F-35 simulators, mission systems, vulnerability management, and RMF-aligned security efforts across CONUS and OCONUS locations.I’m known for being dependable in high-tempo environments, working well across engineering and operations teams, and solving problems quickly when systems matter most. As a U.S. Army veteran, I understand the mission impact behind the technology and take pride in delivering reliable, secure solutions.Core areas include:• Mission systems integration & testing• F-35 training and mission support systems• Vulnerability management & system hardening• RMF / STIG compliance in classified environments• Cross-functional engineering collaboration• Field support and troubleshootingAlways learning, always improving, and always focused on supporting the mission.

Experience

1. Systems Engineer Staff

   Lockheed Martin

   Feb 2026 — Present · Dallas-Fort Worth, TX, US

   The Mission Planning Environment (MPE) Systems Engineer supports the integration, sustainment, and field deployment of ground-based mission planning systems used to plan, execute, and debrief operational missions for the F-35 platform. This role operates within classified environments and works closely with systems, software, hardware, and test teams to ensure mission systems remain secure, reliable, and operationally effective.Key Responsibilities • Support installation, configuration, and upgrade of MPE hardware and software systems at domestic and international operational sites • Troubleshoot complex system issues across mission planning applications, system interfaces, and networked components • Coordinate issue resolution between engineering teams and operational users • Validate system functionality following updates, patches, and configuration changes • Ensure compliance with security requirements and support COMSEC handling procedures • Provide onsite technical support and user training to operational personnel • Develop and maintain technical documentation, system guides, and training materials • Participate in Agile engineering workflows to support anomaly resolution and capability enhancements • Capture field feedback and lessons learned to improve system performance and user experienceCore Competencies • Systems integration and troubleshooting • Secure IT systems in classified environments • Mission planning software and hardware support • Cross-functional team coordination • Technical communication and customer engagement • Sustainment and lifecycle supportImpactThis role directly supports operational readiness by ensuring mission planning systems are secure, functional, and optimized for real-world use. The MPE Systems Engineer serves as a technical bridge between engineering development teams and operational users in the field.

Education

• University of Phoenix

  Bachelor's degree, Information Technology Project Management

• Intellectual point

  Dev ops

• Intellectual point

  Dev ops course

• University of Phoenix

  Master of information systems