Model-Based Systems Engineering and Requirements Definition

Dennis Hansen's career began with Air Force assignments as an airborne navigation aids technician. After earning his commission, he served in several key roles: Chief of the Plans and Programs Branch at SAC/1st Communications Group, Chief of the Systems Engineering & Training Branch at the 4000 Aerospace Applications Group, and Manager of Strategic Ground Systems for the Defense Meteorological Satellite Program. His experience provided a deep understanding of how design errors impact system operations — first as a technician during the Air Force’s test phase of the B-58 bomber, and later, after completing his BSEE, in managing the planning and transition of systems into operational service. Following his Air Force retirement, Mr. Hansen worked at Harris Corporation (now L3Harris Technologies) for 40 years as a Systems Engineer and Chief Systems Engineer on multiple programs. Notably, he contributed as Chief Systems Engineer to the development of a new ground system for the GOES-R weather satellite program, covering all aspects from antennas, command and telemetry, and networking to systems management and processing of received payload data. Throughout his career, Mr. Hansen has gained broad experience across the full system lifecycle — from addressing the potential impacts of faulty design during operation, to managing system acquisitions, and ultimately leading the development of systems acquired by government agencies.