Debra Thedford is an associate director of strategic initiatives at the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Chemical Biological Center.
According to their website, the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command (DEVCOM) Chemical Biological Center (CBC) is aligned under the U.S. Army Futures Command (AFC) and U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command.
Debra oversees several initiatives, including international programs, technology transfer, protocol, and communications, for the world-class science and engineering laboratory.
She has served at various levels, including as the commander of the Pine Bluff Chemical Activity, where she was responsible for chemical matters and the safe storage of the United States' second-largest stockpile of chemical agents.
As director of chemical biological programs in the Office of the Secretary of Defense, she managed the non-medical chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) portfolio, ensuring that soldiers had the equipment to fight and win in a contaminated environment.
She has also organized educational partnership agreements for the Chemical Biological Center, allowing Army laboratories to partner with educational institutions and academic researchers.
Additionally, she has managed the Minority Serving Institutions Stem Research and Development Consortium, a nonprofit organization that aims to advance technology in areas of importance to the Combat Capabilities Development Command Chemical Biological Center, the Department of Defense, and other federal agencies.
Apart from her career achievements, Debra is committed to continuous learning and community involvement.
She has mentored and tutored students in various programs, including eCYBERMISSION, the Discovery Center, and the Alexandria City Chapter of Top Teens of America, for more than a decade.
