The Aptima Best Paper Award recognizes outstanding scholarly contributions that advance the state-of-the-art in AI and human performance, and reflect Aptima’s leadership in research and innovation.

Eligible works include peer-reviewed journal articles, conference papers, and book chapters that demonstrate both technical rigor and real-world applicability.

Winner:
“Using Human-Centered Design to Develop a Neurophysiological Monitoring Suite of Technologies” — Olivia Fox Cotton, Justin Morgan, Sylvain Bruni

This work highlights Aptima’s strength in human-centered engineering, combining cutting-edge research with practical application in neurotechnology.

Runner-Up:
“Human-AI Collaboration for Synthetic Media Detection in Training and Operations” — Laura Cassani, Michael Davinroy, Tatiana Toumbeva, Peter Bautista, Lauren Fortier, Ashley Hart, Svitlana Volkova

This paper reflects the growing importance of AI-human teaming, particularly in addressing emerging challenges such as synthetic media detection.

This award celebrates initiatives that demonstrate innovation, strategic alignment, and measurable impact — whether through new technologies, partnerships, or organizational improvements.

Winner:
FORCEGEN Demonstrations and Transition Effort
Demo Team: Will Dupree, Alexxa Bessey, Anthony McCarty, Svitlana Volkova, Summer Rebensky
Engineering Team: Will Dupree, Nick Abele, Gabe Ganberg, Patrick Gerard, Charles Jusko, Ryan Kao, Jeremy May, Mark Schroeder

This initiative exemplifies cross-functional collaboration, bringing together technical and operational expertise to successfully transition advanced capabilities into real-world use.

Runner-Up:
Cameron Roudebush for Ironclad
Recognized for driving forward a high-impact initiative aligned with Aptima’s long-term strategic vision.

The Operational Excellence Award honors individuals or teams who consistently improve efficiency, reliability, and organizational performance through proactive problem-solving and leadership.

Winner:
Tasia Rechisky
Known for her foresight and attention to detail, Tasia’s contributions enable teams across Aptima to perform at their best.

Runners-Up (Tie):
Summer Rebensky
Widely recognized for guiding complex efforts with clarity and dedication, particularly in customer-focused work.

Julia Brown
Celebrated for her adaptability and results-driven leadership in high-impact operational environments.

The Citizen of the Year Award honors individuals who embody Aptima’s values through active engagement, leadership, and commitment to the community.

Winner:
Summer Rebensky
Bella Perault

Both winners demonstrate exceptional dedication to fostering a culture of excellence and collaboration across Aptima.

Runner-Up:
JAnthony McCarty
Recognized for his consistent contributions to team success and organizational initiatives.

The Best Partner Award recognizes external collaborators who contribute significantly to Aptima’s mission through strong, mutually beneficial relationships and impactful results.

Winner:
SunStone Secure
SunStone Secure’s partnership reflects long-term value creation, technical excellence, and alignment with Aptima’s innovation goals.

Runners-Up (Tie):
Jason “FLIR” Lingle — Pacific Aerospace Consulting
Dr. Greg Baker — Beast Code

Both partners have played key roles in advancing collaborative research and delivering meaningful outcomes.

This award highlights technical accomplishments that exceed customer expectations, advance innovation, and create opportunities for future growth and commercialization within defense research and development.

Winner:
BRIES
BRIES’ multi-agent digital environment demonstrates both immediate operational value and strong potential for broader adoption.

Runner-Up:
FORCEGEN
An example of agile innovation, delivering advanced capabilities in a highly compressed timeframe.

The Best Teamwork Award celebrates groups that exemplify collaboration, accountability, and shared success while delivering meaningful results for Aptima.

Winner:
Aptima Information Systems (IS) Team
Their sustained effort toward achieving CMMC Level 2 compliance reflects exceptional coordination, accountability, and long-term impact.

Runner-Up:
AFTER ShOC Team
Recognized for fostering a culture of shared learning and delivering strong progress toward strategic goals.

This award recognizes leaders who go above and beyond in developing others — offering guidance, fostering growth, and strengthening Aptima’s culture through mentorship.

Winner:
Sylvain Bruni
A respected leader whose mentorship has helped shape both individual careers and broader team success.

Runners-Up (Tie):
Jessica Shenberger-Trujillo
Greg Karacynzski

Both recognized for their commitment to supporting colleagues and building strong professional relationships.