Featured Speaker(s)

Katherine M. (Kathy) Tamer is vice president and chief information officer of United Space Alliance (USA). Assuming this position in 1996, she provides the vision and leadership for information technology (IT) initiatives that create and maintain competitive advantage for USA. The 400+ person organization provides comprehensive IT services for 10,000+ employees across three major NASA centers and five sites. Prior to joining USA, she served as program manager, Commercial Programs for Rockwell Space Operations Company.

Ms. Tamer joined Rockwell in 1986 as Project Manager supporting the Space Station Systems Avionics Director. In 1993, Rockwell Space Operations Company consolidated management systems development and implementation activities under her direction.

Prior to joining Rockwell, Ms. Tamer served for thirteen years with a combination of Technology Inc., General Electric, and the University of Texas Medical School in positions involving systems integration, strategic planning, information technology and software engineering.

Ms. Tamer has received many awards for her contributions to the space program and the community. Professionally, she has received NASA Group Achievement awards, Rockwell Engineer of the Year, and the Rockwell Good Citizenship Award. Most recently she received her 40 year Girl Scout service award. She has been named one of 85 Women of Distinction by the Texas Girl Scout Councils, a Distinguished Alumni from the University of Houston/Clear Lake, Houston Women on the Move (1997) and one of the Top Houston Women in Technology by the Association for Women in Computing (2001). Ms. Tamer also received the National Management Association Silver Knight of Management Award in 1998. Ms. Tamer currently serves on the San Jacinto Girl Scouts Board of Directors, Leadership Texas 2000 Alumni Association, Greater Houston Partnership �" Executive Women’s Forum and the United Way Community Leaders Council.

Ms. Tamer holds a BS in Computer Science and Biology from the University of Dayton and a MS in Computer Systems Design from the University of Houston/Clear Lake.