Shea Thompson

Commodore of two ZUMWALT Class Destroyers (DDG 1000) and three Unmanned Surface Vessel (USV) Squadrons; responsible for all aspects of readiness.

• Led Task Group 38.1 in naval operational and tactical planning and execution of the first forward deployed USV and DDG 1000 operations in the Indo-Pacific region in support of Pacific Fleet Commanders' mission priorities.
• Pioneered employment of significant numbers of small USVs from the sea base, establishing a unique operational capability.
• Validated USV capabilities and developed Standard Operating Procedures, Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures to enhance operational readiness.
• Developed USV Concept of Operations aligning with Pacific Fleet and Indo-Pacific Command mission priorities to ensure effective integration.
• Coordinated across numerous echelons (to include OPNAV and SECNAV staff), program offices, joint and industry partners to drive future requirements.

• Integrated Air and Missile Defense Commander for Commander Carrier Strike Group Nine responsible for the transitioning of Carrier Strike Group air defense units into combat power in support of sea control and power projection.
• Major Commander of a Guided Missile Cruiser; responsible for all aspects of the ship and 400+ crew's combat readiness.
• Directed ship and Air Wing Commanding Officers on effective use of defensive weapons systems and resolution of operational challenges.
• Coordinated preparation and execution of support missions to enhance defense of deployed forces and individuals.
• Led strategic briefings with senior leaders to align operational goals and objectives.
• Developed operational plans to support mission objectives.
• Responded quickly and effectively to real world emergencies and crisis situations while forward deployed in the South China Sea.
• Built and fielded high powered, winning teams resulting in the ship being awarded the BATTLE "E" Award for Excellence during my tenure; the highest annual award a ship can receive for performance.

• Spearheaded the planning and execution of cutting-edge experimentation efforts with surface ships and unmanned systems; the first to personally remotely command and control an Unmanned Surface Vessel from a Surface Combatant.
• Led requirements, resources, and experimentation at the Surface Navy's premier Warfighting Development Center by directing cross-functional teams across various commands, program offices, and industry partners to conduct detailed capability gap analysis across all Navy mission areas, which provided codified warfighting requirements to OPNAV staff for budget planning and gap closure.
• Served as Senior Mentor to Destroyer Commanding Officers during seven Surface Warfare Advanced Tactical Training exercises to prepare Strike Group assets for high-end combat operations before deployment.
• Created an environment fostering creativity and innovation; results oriented.

• Responsible for all aspects of ship and 320+ crew's combat readiness as Commanding Officer of Flight IIA Destroyer.
• Built and fielded high powered, winning teams resulting in the ship being awarded 2 consecutive BATTLE "E" Awards for Excellence during my tenure; the highest annual award a ship can receive for performance.
• Led deployment operations to the Indo-Pacific, Southern Pacific, and Atlantic regions, ensuring mission readiness.
• Acted decisively during emergencies and crisis situations, ensuring crew safety and mission continuity.
• Evaluated subordinate performance to identify strengths and areas for development, enhancing overall team capability.