Meet Mary Falcigno: Bridging Math, Tech, and Mentorship
Mary Falcigno, a 2015 graduate, is making strides at DEVCOM (U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command) within the Armaments Center. As a project officer, she plays a vital role in identifying and managing unauthorized drones using her math and computer science background. In a recent conversation, Mary shared insights about her journey, her work with artificial intelligence (AI), and her passion for mentoring others in STEM fields.
From St. Mike’s to the Army
Mary started her academic journey at Saint Michael’s College, where she majored in mathematics and minored in computer science. After discovering her love for coding, she participated in summer research programs that further shaped her interests. Following graduation, inspired by her father’s long career with the Army Corps of Engineers, Mary applied for a computer scientist position at a research lab. Despite her initial worries about her qualifications, she landed the job shortly after graduation.
With a growing focus on AI, Mary now leads projects in data analytics and AI development. Currently, she manages a counter-drone project, where she oversees costs, schedules, and performance, all while communicating with various stakeholders.
The Role of AI in Her Work
In her position at DEVCOM, AI and machine learning (ML) have become essential tools for enhancing technology used by the Army. Mary explains that AI helps streamline processes, making tasks like code writing more efficient. This innovative software plays a crucial role in keeping their systems effective for military applications.
Keeping Up with Rapid Changes
With technology evolving quickly, Mary emphasizes the importance of networking. By connecting with fellow scientists, engineers, and leaders, she stays informed and engaged with the latest developments. Her curiosity drives her to ask questions, which she believes is key to continuous learning.
The Importance of Ethical AI Discussions
Mary highlights the need for discussions around the ethical use of AI, especially in the military context. Given the potential impact on lives, ensuring the reliability of AI outputs is critical for making informed decisions.
Mentoring for the Future
A strong advocate for STEM careers, Mary is passionate about mentoring others, especially women of color and first-generation students. She aims to provide the guidance she felt was missing during her own academic journey, helping others navigate their paths effectively.
Impact of St. Mike’s
Mary credits her time at Saint Michael’s for instilling a sense of service to the community and a hunger for learning. The supportive professors and environment inspired her to pursue a Master’s degree while continuing her education through various opportunities within the Army.
A Final Piece of Advice
Mary encourages others to keep seeking knowledge and connecting with people who can support their growth. She believes that while AI and ML are helpful tools, the foundation for their effectiveness lies in the quality of data and development behind them.
This profile captures not only Mary’s professional accomplishments but also her commitment to fostering a supportive community in STEM.
