Ingrid Peterson

"I started my career in the Navy as a Naval Flight Officer flying EP-3s (a reconnaissance aircraft) out of Rota, Spain. When I joined the squadron, I wasn’t thinking about my connection to the IC, but the insights we gained and overall contribution to the national security mission became much clearer over time. I concluded my time in the Navy with a shore tour at the Office of Naval Intelligence as an Air/Air Defense analyst. When I transitioned out of the Navy, I jumped into consulting and began supporting the IC as a first client. Currently, I’m at Guidehouse and continuing to engage with the IC – it’s been an incredible journey."

"It’s so exciting for me to work with such a talented group of professionals at Guidehouse. I continue to be impressed with the creativity, drive, and technical ability our team brings to the clients.  Some of my best experiences have happened during brainstorming and solutioning sessions where I get to see team collaboration at its finest. We have a tremendous team culture that has been built over time, and I’m so thankful to be a part of it!"

"I think the overall security posture (and data security specifically) will be a focus going forward. On a personal level, we’ve all been impacted recently by the surge in cyberattacks. In the IC, sensitive information from manned and unmanned systems across the globe will continue to be a challenge to secure. I’m confident we can stay ahead of our adversaries, but it will require collaboration across the IC in new and innovative ways."

"If you have the opportunity, take it. You can always change your mind or make a pivot later. Like many others, when the pandemic hit I bought a Peloton. I equate a new career challenge or decision to some of the workouts (specifically the high intensity interval training). Prior to the interval, the instructor asks, “Are you ready…Yes or Yes.” That always gets me motivated."

Favorite TV Show: The Queen’s Gambit. I was hooked immediately and had to stay disciplined on the number of episodes I allowed myself to watch per night! The plot was fascinating and it got me excited about learning chess. Her obsession with the game and ability to visualize a strategy ahead of the match was amazing.