About Us
What's In A Name?
of, relating to, or full of wisdom
trusted partner
The Sophic Vision
Establish Better Business by Design™ as the standard for achieving environments, products, and services that deliver, innovative, human-centered solutions for every industry.
The Sophic Mission
At Sophic Synergistics, we are your trusted partner for achieving unparalleled success through the prioritization of the human element. Together, our partnership results in the best solution, every time! That’s the power of Human-Centered Design!
Our Story
Sophic Synergistics was born from a desire to change the way we think about business and the products and services we build. At the center of everything we do are the people we serve and the real problems we solve by enhancing everyday life and experiences. Human Factors provide us a strong foundation, which makes the user our number one priority. Our strategy is to fill the gap that lies between human factors as a design approach and human factors as a business strategy.
Our purpose is to help companies achieve their goals through Better Business By Design™. We look at your entire company and help you align your organizational goals from top to bottom: from the people who solve problems and deliver solutions to the customers you build products and services for.
We not only provide human-centered design and business strategy consulting; our #1 service is being your trusted partner. No two clients are the same, and we will always strive to provide you with just the right amount of support, giving you everything you need and nothing you don’t. Our name says it all, we roll our sleeves up and work right beside you. Find out how to join the Sophic family and contact us today!
Sophic Values
At Sophic Synergistics we pride ourselves on our 6 core values. These values are core and essential and are key tenants of our everyday business strategy.
S
Solutions: We pride ourselves on providing solutions to some of the biggest design and operational challenges that humans face. We never back down from helping a client or teammate find the best solution to a problem.
O
Objective: We utilize an experienced-based, data-driven approach to deliver informed solutions.
P
Partnership: As a consulting company we value and strive to establish and maintain strong client relationships, which are key to our success.
H
Human-Centered: We are a human-centric company. This is reflected in our company culture and how we support our employees and our clients.
I
Integrity: We demonstrate strong moral principles that refuse to change.
C
Courage: To speak up and do the right thing, even when it’s challenging or uncomfortable.
Meet the Sophic Team
Cynthia Rando
CEO & Founder, MS, MBA, CHFP
Cynthia is a Certified Human Factors Professional (CHFP) and the V.P. of the Board of Certification in Professional Ergonomics. She received her B.S. and M.S. in Human Factors Engineering from Clemson University and an MBA from Northeastern University.
Cynthia has worked in human-centered design for over 17+ years. She spent over 15 years at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston, providing leadership and proactively addressing several critical areas in human factors and human-centered design. The projects which she was involved in include user interface design, ergonomics, safety and risk mitigation strategies, usability and user experience, accident investigation and root cause analyses. Cynthia assisted in the implementation of culture change initiatives and innovative solutions including the U.S. government’s first use of crowdsourcing as a disruptive business model. She also assisted with the development of the Center of Excellence for Collaborative Innovation and the NASA Human Health and Performance Center.
Cynthia’s passion for the propagation of education in human factors principles and human-centered design as a business model is shown throughout her career. She has served as an associate professor at the University of Houston-Clear Lake, providing instruction in human factors and ergonomics course material. Currently, she serves as a trusted advisor and consultant for the Texas Medical Center Innovation Incubator’s medical device startup cohorts and The Texas Committee on Autonomous Systems.
As founder and CEO of Sophic Synergistics, Cynthia brings all of her academic, technical, and professional experience to the table. Along with her team, Sophic provides support to companies in a holistic and human-centered strategy that has never been seen before.
“At the end of the day, your business is our business.
We’re here to make sure you succeed.”
-Cynthia Rando
- All
- Leadership
- Sophic Team
- Sophic Scholars Interns
Tacey Baker
Chief Operations Officer (COO)
Tacey is a certified Project Management Professional, Certified Scrum Master, and Prosci Change Management Practitioner. She received her B.S. in Biology from Texas A&M University and her MBA from Texas A&M-Commerce.
Tacey has over 30 years of experience in program/project oversight of technical personnel, enabling client success and positive change. She spent over 25 years at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston, beginning her career doing three-dimensional tissue engineering with the NASA Rotating Bioreactor. Her experience quickly expanded into developing software and hardware requirements for Biotechnology flight hardware, writing procedures and training astronaut crews, and supporting Shuttle, Mir, and International Space Station missions for the NASA Biotechnology Program. Tacey also supported the Strategy and Innovation team within NASA’s Human Health and Performance Directorate. For the last seven years, Tacey has worked for Autodesk, Inc. leading consulting programs and project teams delivering high-value outcomes to global enterprise customers in Manufacturing, and Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industries.
Tacey Baker
Chief Operations Officer (COO)
Tacey is a certified Project Management Professional, Certified Scrum Master, and Prosci Change Management Practitioner. She received her B.S. in Biology from Texas A&M University and her MBA from Texas A&M-Commerce.
Tacey has over 30 years of experience in program/project oversight of technical personnel, enabling client success and positive change. She spent over 25 years at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston, beginning her career doing three-dimensional tissue engineering with the NASA Rotating Bioreactor. Her experience quickly expanded into developing software and hardware requirements for Biotechnology flight hardware, writing procedures and training astronaut crews, and supporting Shuttle, Mir, and International Space Station missions for the NASA Biotechnology Program. Tacey also supported the Strategy and Innovation team within NASA’s Human Health and Performance Directorate. For the last seven years, Tacey has worked for Autodesk, Inc. leading consulting programs and project teams delivering high-value outcomes to global enterprise customers in Manufacturing, and Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industries.
Jennifer Forgarty, PhD
Director of Applied Health and Human Performance
Jennifer Fogarty, PhD, is the Director of the Applied Health and Extreme Environments Division at Sophic Synergistics, LLC. Sophic Synergistics is a Human Centered Design firm specializing in integrating the best practices associated with human factors and medical physiology into a business model.
Jennifer has over twenty years’ experience in human physiology and extreme environments and was most recently the NASA Human Research Program (HRP) Chief Scientist (CS) from November 2017 to January 2021. Jennifer led the development and oversight of an extensive research portfolio that addressed a very diverse set of human system risks to enable human exploration of space. This HRP CS role required communication and collaboration with Industry and Academic research and development laboratories, current NASA flight Programs, International Partners, and developmental spaceflight Programs that will be implementing human system risk reduction strategies. In addition, Jennifer established and maintained relationships and collaborations with research Programs at NASA, external institutions, and other government agencies to assess fundamental and mechanistic discoveries as well as innovative prevention and treatment strategies for application during mission design and execution. Before taking on this leadership role in the HRP, Jennifer was the Translational Scientist for NASA Space and Clinical Operations Division in the Human Health and Performance Directorate. In this role she facilitated project development and Program interactions between the operational and research communities. She identified candidates for the transition to operations process to reduce risk and resource utilization with the overall goal of preserving astronaut health and performance during and after missions. Previously, Jennifer was the Open Collaboration and Innovation Manager responsible for developing and maturing collaborations and applying tools such as technical gap analysis and open innovation platforms to further research, enhance clinical capabilities, and facilitate technology development.
Dr. Fogarty received a PhD from Texas A&M University System Health Science Center. She is currently on the editorial team for the Fundamentals of Aerospace Medicine 5th edition, regularly lectures on space physiology and human system risk management.
Jennifer Forgarty, PhD
Director of Applied Health and Human Performance
Jennifer Fogarty, PhD, is the Director of the Applied Health and Extreme Environments Division at Sophic Synergistics, LLC. Sophic Synergistics is a Human Centered Design firm specializing in integrating the best practices associated with human factors and medical physiology into a business model.
Jennifer has over twenty years’ experience in human physiology and extreme environments and was most recently the NASA Human Research Program (HRP) Chief Scientist (CS) from November 2017 to January 2021. Jennifer led the development and oversight of an extensive research portfolio that addressed a very diverse set of human system risks to enable human exploration of space. This HRP CS role required communication and collaboration with Industry and Academic research and development laboratories, current NASA flight Programs, International Partners, and developmental spaceflight Programs that will be implementing human system risk reduction strategies. In addition, Jennifer established and maintained relationships and collaborations with research Programs at NASA, external institutions, and other government agencies to assess fundamental and mechanistic discoveries as well as innovative prevention and treatment strategies for application during mission design and execution. Before taking on this leadership role in the HRP, Jennifer was the Translational Scientist for NASA Space and Clinical Operations Division in the Human Health and Performance Directorate. In this role she facilitated project development and Program interactions between the operational and research communities. She identified candidates for the transition to operations process to reduce risk and resource utilization with the overall goal of preserving astronaut health and performance during and after missions. Previously, Jennifer was the Open Collaboration and Innovation Manager responsible for developing and maturing collaborations and applying tools such as technical gap analysis and open innovation platforms to further research, enhance clinical capabilities, and facilitate technology development.
Dr. Fogarty received a PhD from Texas A&M University System Health Science Center. She is currently on the editorial team for the Fundamentals of Aerospace Medicine 5th edition, regularly lectures on space physiology and human system risk management.
Marsha Ivins
Director of Human Systems Integration (HSI)
After graduating from the University of Colorado with a BS in Aerospace Engineering, Marsha was hired by Abbot Laboratories to work as a Bio-Medical Engineer in their hospital products division.
In 1974 she was hired by the Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center in Houston, TX to work in Human Factors and Man-Machine Engineering helping to develop the Space Shuttle Orbiter cockpit layout, displays and controls, and the Head-Up Display.
In 1980 Marsha was reassigned as a flight test engineer on the Shuttle Training Aircraft, the aircraft used to train all pilots in the Shuttle final landing phase. She served as flight engineer during training flights, and during flight tests of the final approach and landing software including the HUD, night landing techniques and approaches to all designed Orbiter landing areas in the US. She was also assigned as a pilot on the NASA administrative aircraft. She holds a multi-engine Airline Transport Pilot License with Gulfstream-1 type rating, single engine airplane, land, sea, and glider commercial licenses, and airplane, instrument, and glider flight instructor ratings. She has logged over 7000 hours in civilian and NASA aircraft.
Marsha was selected as an astronaut in the class of 1984 as a Mission Specialist. A veteran of five space flights, (STS-32 in 1990, STS-46 in 1992, STS-62 in 1994, STS-81 in 1997, and STS-98 in 2001); she has logged over 1,318 hours in space.
During her tenure in the Astronaut Office, Marsha supported the Space Shuttle and Space Station programs in all areas of operational crew interface and was the Astronaut Office expert in flight crew equipment, habitability, imagery (introducing new films and camera systems), and stowage. She also provided crew representation to program safety review boards and program decisional boards, and crew support to launch checkout operations at the Kennedy Space Center. In her last 4 years with the agency, Marsha led the Astronaut Office team supporting the Constellation Program and the Commercial Crew Development initiative.
In 2010 Marsha retired after a 37-year career with NASA. Since then she has done flight test work for aircraft sensor systems, served as a consultant to the last IMAX space film documentary released in 2015, consulted on commercial spacecraft software independent verification and validation, and supported proposal work on a human lunar landing vehicle from the crew operations and human systems integrations perspective. In June 2023 she joined Sophic Synergistics as the Director of Human Systems Integration.
Marsha Ivins
Director of Human Systems Integration (HSI)
After graduating from the University of Colorado with a BS in Aerospace Engineering, Marsha was hired by Abbot Laboratories to work as a Bio-Medical Engineer in their hospital products division.
In 1974 she was hired by the Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center in Houston, TX to work in Human Factors and Man-Machine Engineering helping to develop the Space Shuttle Orbiter cockpit layout, displays and controls, and the Head-Up Display.
In 1980 Marsha was reassigned as a flight test engineer on the Shuttle Training Aircraft, the aircraft used to train all pilots in the Shuttle final landing phase. She served as flight engineer during training flights, and during flight tests of the final approach and landing software including the HUD, night landing techniques and approaches to all designed Orbiter landing areas in the US. She was also assigned as a pilot on the NASA administrative aircraft. She holds a multi-engine Airline Transport Pilot License with Gulfstream-1 type rating, single engine airplane, land, sea, and glider commercial licenses, and airplane, instrument, and glider flight instructor ratings. She has logged over 7000 hours in civilian and NASA aircraft.
Marsha was selected as an astronaut in the class of 1984 as a Mission Specialist. A veteran of five space flights, (STS-32 in 1990, STS-46 in 1992, STS-62 in 1994, STS-81 in 1997, and STS-98 in 2001); she has logged over 1,318 hours in space.
During her tenure in the Astronaut Office, Marsha supported the Space Shuttle and Space Station programs in all areas of operational crew interface and was the Astronaut Office expert in flight crew equipment, habitability, imagery (introducing new films and camera systems), and stowage. She also provided crew representation to program safety review boards and program decisional boards, and crew support to launch checkout operations at the Kennedy Space Center. In her last 4 years with the agency, Marsha led the Astronaut Office team supporting the Constellation Program and the Commercial Crew Development initiative.
In 2010 Marsha retired after a 37-year career with NASA. Since then she has done flight test work for aircraft sensor systems, served as a consultant to the last IMAX space film documentary released in 2015, consulted on commercial spacecraft software independent verification and validation, and supported proposal work on a human lunar landing vehicle from the crew operations and human systems integrations perspective. In June 2023 she joined Sophic Synergistics as the Director of Human Systems Integration.
Raquel Garcia
Human Factors Specialist
Raquel started her career at Sophic in March 2019. She joined us as a Human Factors Intern from the University of Houston-Clear Lake and upon earning her Master of Science degree in Applied Cognitive Psychology with a specialization in Human Factors, she transitioned to a full-time specialist.
Raquel is an experienced Human Factors Specialist. Driven by her desire to advocate for the safety of the human, she takes great pride in providing the best human-centered design methodologies into every project she is assigned to. She currently works closely with our medical device clients and aerospace clients.
Raquel Garcia
Human Factors Specialist
Raquel started her career at Sophic in March 2019. She joined us as a Human Factors Intern from the University of Houston-Clear Lake and upon earning her Master of Science degree in Applied Cognitive Psychology with a specialization in Human Factors, she transitioned to a full-time specialist.
Raquel is an experienced Human Factors Specialist. Driven by her desire to advocate for the safety of the human, she takes great pride in providing the best human-centered design methodologies into every project she is assigned to. She currently works closely with our medical device clients and aerospace clients.
Lorrie Primeaux
HSI Sr. Project Manager
Lorrie joined the Sophic Team in January 2024 as our HSI Sr. Project Manager for xEVAS.
Lorrie earned a B.S. in Biology from the University of Houston – Clear Lake, along with a certificate in Biotechnology. She has 20 years of experience in requirements documentation, integration, implementation, and project management.
Working at NASA’s Johnson Space Center (JSC) in Houston for 20 years, Lorrie began her career tailoring cell science experiments for spaceflight, which involved writing procedures, training astronaut crew, and supporting International Space Station missions for the NASA Biotechnology Program. Lorrie then moved on to support the Flight Analogs group where she has fulfilled multiple roles over the last 18 years. Starting out as an integration coordinator working with Principal Investigator teams to integrate science for implementation, she quickly made a move towards project management and served as the Project Planning and Support Lead, Operations Lead, Project Manager, and Analog Science Lead all while serving as a subtask manager for the task order. While most of her time was spent supporting Flight Analogs in multiple platforms (e.g. bed rest, isolated confined and controlled, parabolic flight, etc.) she also oversaw the flight side of integration and implementation as well and completed her tenure at JSC as Task Order Manager for the Research Operations and Integration Element under the Human Health and Performance Contract.
Lorrie Primeaux
HSI Sr. Project Manager
Lorrie joined the Sophic Team in January 2024 as our HSI Sr. Project Manager for xEVAS.
Lorrie earned a B.S. in Biology from the University of Houston – Clear Lake, along with a certificate in Biotechnology. She has 20 years of experience in requirements documentation, integration, implementation, and project management.
Working at NASA’s Johnson Space Center (JSC) in Houston for 20 years, Lorrie began her career tailoring cell science experiments for spaceflight, which involved writing procedures, training astronaut crew, and supporting International Space Station missions for the NASA Biotechnology Program. Lorrie then moved on to support the Flight Analogs group where she has fulfilled multiple roles over the last 18 years. Starting out as an integration coordinator working with Principal Investigator teams to integrate science for implementation, she quickly made a move towards project management and served as the Project Planning and Support Lead, Operations Lead, Project Manager, and Analog Science Lead all while serving as a subtask manager for the task order. While most of her time was spent supporting Flight Analogs in multiple platforms (e.g. bed rest, isolated confined and controlled, parabolic flight, etc.) she also oversaw the flight side of integration and implementation as well and completed her tenure at JSC as Task Order Manager for the Research Operations and Integration Element under the Human Health and Performance Contract.
Russell Whitten
HSI Sr. Project Manager
Russell joined the Sophic Team in October 2024 as a Project Manager and has a strong aerospace background.
Russell is a 10-year Air Force Veteran and has been stationed at bases across the U.S. and overseas. During his military service he was a project manager, quality assurance inspector, and an aerospace mechanic with a focus on structural modification and repairs. Some of his favorite aircraft he has worked on are the; F-15 Strike Eagle, AC-130 Gunships, HH-60, and CV-22 Osprey. He has a passion for leading diverse teams to get things done!
After serving in the military, he obtained his Bachelor’s Degree in Applied Sciences from the University of Houston - Downtown. Since graduating, he has worked for several leading companies in the aerospace industry both on the government and commercial sides. He is excited to be back in the aerospace industry and can’t wait for the new challenges Sophic will offer.
Russell Whitten
HSI Sr. Project Manager
Russell joined the Sophic Team in October 2024 as a Project Manager and has a strong aerospace background.
Russell is a 10-year Air Force Veteran and has been stationed at bases across the U.S. and overseas. During his military service he was a project manager, quality assurance inspector, and an aerospace mechanic with a focus on structural modification and repairs. Some of his favorite aircraft he has worked on are the; F-15 Strike Eagle, AC-130 Gunships, HH-60, and CV-22 Osprey. He has a passion for leading diverse teams to get things done!
After serving in the military, he obtained his Bachelor’s Degree in Applied Sciences from the University of Houston - Downtown. Since graduating, he has worked for several leading companies in the aerospace industry both on the government and commercial sides. He is excited to be back in the aerospace industry and can’t wait for the new challenges Sophic will offer.
Holly Adams
Applied Health and Human Factors Specialist
Holly joined the Sophic Team in October 2024 as an Applied Health and Human Factors Specialist.
She’s an experienced Human Factors Engineer and Registered Nurse. Since becoming a Registered Nurse in 2010, she has been dedicated to improving processes and workflows to enhance patient safety. This dedication prompted her to attend Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, where she earned a Bachelor's Degree in Human Factors Psychology with a minor in Life Sciences and a Master’s Degree in Human Factors.
Her dual background empowers her to bridge the gap between healthcare and human factors, bringing a unique perspective to clinicians' challenges. Driven by her passion for healthcare improvement, she challenges the status quo: "That's how we've always done it."
Her Human Factors experience includes working in the medical device space, where she conducted user evaluation studies and contextual inquiries that focused on refining products, processes, and workflows for multiple multinational corporations. She is committed to fostering a safer, more efficient healthcare environment for patients and providers.
Holly has experience in use-related risk assessments, gap analysis, and data-driven recommendations and is an active member of the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society (HFES) and an associate-level Board-Certified Human Factors practitioner with the BCPE. She remains committed to advocating for patient safety and advancing healthcare systems through Human Factors.
Holly Adams
Applied Health and Human Factors Specialist
Holly joined the Sophic Team in October 2024 as an Applied Health and Human Factors Specialist.
She’s an experienced Human Factors Engineer and Registered Nurse. Since becoming a Registered Nurse in 2010, she has been dedicated to improving processes and workflows to enhance patient safety. This dedication prompted her to attend Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, where she earned a Bachelor's Degree in Human Factors Psychology with a minor in Life Sciences and a Master’s Degree in Human Factors.
Her dual background empowers her to bridge the gap between healthcare and human factors, bringing a unique perspective to clinicians' challenges. Driven by her passion for healthcare improvement, she challenges the status quo: "That's how we've always done it."
Her Human Factors experience includes working in the medical device space, where she conducted user evaluation studies and contextual inquiries that focused on refining products, processes, and workflows for multiple multinational corporations. She is committed to fostering a safer, more efficient healthcare environment for patients and providers.
Holly has experience in use-related risk assessments, gap analysis, and data-driven recommendations and is an active member of the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society (HFES) and an associate-level Board-Certified Human Factors practitioner with the BCPE. She remains committed to advocating for patient safety and advancing healthcare systems through Human Factors.
Hailee Aklyan
Human Factors Specialist
Hailee joined Sophic in 2023 as a Human Factors Specialist. Prior to joining the team, she attended the University of Nevada, where she received a Bachelor of Science degree in Kinesiology in May 2020, and the University of Idaho, where she earned a Master of Science degree in Experimental Psychology with Emphasis in Human Factors in May 2023.
She is excited to work closely with our aerospace clients where she can showcase her skills in Ergonomics, Biomechanics, and Human-Centered Design.
Hailee Aklyan
Human Factors Specialist
Hailee joined Sophic in 2023 as a Human Factors Specialist. Prior to joining the team, she attended the University of Nevada, where she received a Bachelor of Science degree in Kinesiology in May 2020, and the University of Idaho, where she earned a Master of Science degree in Experimental Psychology with Emphasis in Human Factors in May 2023.
She is excited to work closely with our aerospace clients where she can showcase her skills in Ergonomics, Biomechanics, and Human-Centered Design.
Dylan Dupree
Human Factors Specialist
Dylan joined the Sophic Team as a Human Factors Specialist in February 2023. He attended Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Factors.
Dylan brings an integral understanding of Human Factors principles coupled with an applied skill set gained through field experiences in the Aviation/Aerospace domains. He holds specialized interests in Ergonomics, Anthropometry, VR/AR, and Usability.
Dylan is excited to join the team here at Sophic Synergistics and is looking forward to gaining valuable industry experience, hands-on HF design knowledge, and professional growth.
Dylan Dupree
Human Factors Specialist
Dylan joined the Sophic Team as a Human Factors Specialist in February 2023. He attended Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Factors.
Dylan brings an integral understanding of Human Factors principles coupled with an applied skill set gained through field experiences in the Aviation/Aerospace domains. He holds specialized interests in Ergonomics, Anthropometry, VR/AR, and Usability.
Dylan is excited to join the team here at Sophic Synergistics and is looking forward to gaining valuable industry experience, hands-on HF design knowledge, and professional growth.
Robel Fegadu
Human Factors Specialist
Robel joined our Sophic Team in April 2024 as a Human Factors Specialist. He holds a Master's Degree in Industrial and Human Factors Engineering from Wright State University and a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Ohio State University.
Robel brings with him a diverse background in aviation and manufacturing gained through previous roles. He holds special interests in ergonomics and the aviation/ aerospace industry. Robel is excited to be a part of the Sophic Team and looks forward to expanding his knowledge of human factors and gaining valuable industry experience by working closely with our aerospace clients.
Robel Fegadu
Human Factors Specialist
Robel joined our Sophic Team in April 2024 as a Human Factors Specialist. He holds a Master's Degree in Industrial and Human Factors Engineering from Wright State University and a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Ohio State University.
Robel brings with him a diverse background in aviation and manufacturing gained through previous roles. He holds special interests in ergonomics and the aviation/ aerospace industry. Robel is excited to be a part of the Sophic Team and looks forward to expanding his knowledge of human factors and gaining valuable industry experience by working closely with our aerospace clients.
Mark Hollister
Human Factors Specialist
Mark joined the Sophic Team as a Human Factors Specialist in August 2024. He graduated from Auburn University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Design, and a Master of Science Degree from Virginia Tech in Industrial and Systems Engineering, concentrating in Human Factors and Ergonomics Engineering.
Mark has experience working on various product design and UX design projects with Emerson, CSP Technologies, and NASA. While interning at NASA Marshall Space Flight Center and NASA Langley Research Center, Mark helped design, evaluate, and write requirements for pressurized Mars rover concepts, cis-lunar microgravity habitat workstations, and lunar surface habitats. Mark also brings experience in augmented and virtual reality through prior NASA and Virginia Tech work, including research on using AR to enhance safety for exoskeleton operators.
With this experience and passion for design and human factors for aerospace and XR technologies, Mark is thrilled to join the Sophic Team and continue striving for design excellence for our clients.
Mark Hollister
Human Factors Specialist
Mark joined the Sophic Team as a Human Factors Specialist in August 2024. He graduated from Auburn University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Design, and a Master of Science Degree from Virginia Tech in Industrial and Systems Engineering, concentrating in Human Factors and Ergonomics Engineering.
Mark has experience working on various product design and UX design projects with Emerson, CSP Technologies, and NASA. While interning at NASA Marshall Space Flight Center and NASA Langley Research Center, Mark helped design, evaluate, and write requirements for pressurized Mars rover concepts, cis-lunar microgravity habitat workstations, and lunar surface habitats. Mark also brings experience in augmented and virtual reality through prior NASA and Virginia Tech work, including research on using AR to enhance safety for exoskeleton operators.
With this experience and passion for design and human factors for aerospace and XR technologies, Mark is thrilled to join the Sophic Team and continue striving for design excellence for our clients.
Jaelyn Kelly
Applied Health Specialist
Jaelyn received a Bachelor’s of Science degree from the University of Houston in Physics with a minor in Mathematics. While at UH, her research consisted of tissue and wound healing simulation in theoretical biophysics, as well as designing and engineering astrobiological housing to capture extremophiles in space while working the space and radiation lab. She then pursued a Masters (MS) in Kinesiology with a focus in Exercise Physiology with the intent to return one day to working on human and space-focused endeavors.
The bulk of her clinical experience was gained during the pandemic where she expanded her scope of practice to cardiology, neurology/sleep testing, and rehabilitation/therapy.
Jaelyn Kelly
Applied Health Specialist
Jaelyn received a Bachelor’s of Science degree from the University of Houston in Physics with a minor in Mathematics. While at UH, her research consisted of tissue and wound healing simulation in theoretical biophysics, as well as designing and engineering astrobiological housing to capture extremophiles in space while working the space and radiation lab. She then pursued a Masters (MS) in Kinesiology with a focus in Exercise Physiology with the intent to return one day to working on human and space-focused endeavors.
The bulk of her clinical experience was gained during the pandemic where she expanded her scope of practice to cardiology, neurology/sleep testing, and rehabilitation/therapy.
Scott Mishler
Human Factors Specialist
Scott joined the Sophic team as a Human Factors Specialist in October of 2024. He graduated with his Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Purdue University, his Master of Science Degree in Psychology from Old Dominion University and his Ph.D. in Human Factors Psychology also from Old Dominion University.
Scott has experience working on various research projects regarding automated and semi-automated vehicles, human-computer interaction, AI and computer vision, trust in automation, vigilance, warnings, phishing, and cybersecurity. He has designed systems to help combat the vigilance decrement, improve warnings for hazards in vehicles, increase user understanding of automated functions to enhance usability, prevent users from falling for phishing scams, and understand calibration for trust in automation to prevent under- and over-trust that could result in catastrophe. With his extensive experience and drive for discovery, Scott is excited to help the Sophic team deliver impactful results for our clients.
Scott Mishler
Human Factors Specialist
Scott joined the Sophic team as a Human Factors Specialist in October of 2024. He graduated with his Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Purdue University, his Master of Science Degree in Psychology from Old Dominion University and his Ph.D. in Human Factors Psychology also from Old Dominion University.
Scott has experience working on various research projects regarding automated and semi-automated vehicles, human-computer interaction, AI and computer vision, trust in automation, vigilance, warnings, phishing, and cybersecurity. He has designed systems to help combat the vigilance decrement, improve warnings for hazards in vehicles, increase user understanding of automated functions to enhance usability, prevent users from falling for phishing scams, and understand calibration for trust in automation to prevent under- and over-trust that could result in catastrophe. With his extensive experience and drive for discovery, Scott is excited to help the Sophic team deliver impactful results for our clients.
Micoy O'Meally
Human Factors Specialist
Micoy joined our Sophic team as a Human Factors Specialist in December 2023. Micoy is a graduate of Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University with a Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees in Human Factors.
Micoy brings with him knowledge of human factors principles, philosophies, and techniques to the Sophic team. He has a deep interest in complex system theory and cognitive modeling which he will be applying in his aerospace role.
He is enthusiastic about leveraging his skills across the multiple industries and clients we serve; and deepening his experience in Human-Centered Design.
Micoy O'Meally
Human Factors Specialist
Micoy joined our Sophic team as a Human Factors Specialist in December 2023. Micoy is a graduate of Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University with a Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees in Human Factors.
Micoy brings with him knowledge of human factors principles, philosophies, and techniques to the Sophic team. He has a deep interest in complex system theory and cognitive modeling which he will be applying in his aerospace role.
He is enthusiastic about leveraging his skills across the multiple industries and clients we serve; and deepening his experience in Human-Centered Design.
Lisa Pitre
Partnerships Coordinator
Lisa joined the Sophic Team in March of 2022 taking over the Partnership Coordinator Role.
Lisa has over 20 years Sales Experience in a multitude of industries that include various Advertising industries, Oil & Gas, as well as Medical. Lisa has an extensive background in Sales and Marketing and studied Business and Marketing at McNeese State University.
Lisa is excited to bring her expertise to support our current and future clients while learning about the cross-industry application of Human-Centered Design to leverage her past experiences and open new doors for the Sophic Team and future business partnerships.
Lisa Pitre
Partnerships Coordinator
Lisa joined the Sophic Team in March of 2022 taking over the Partnership Coordinator Role.
Lisa has over 20 years Sales Experience in a multitude of industries that include various Advertising industries, Oil & Gas, as well as Medical. Lisa has an extensive background in Sales and Marketing and studied Business and Marketing at McNeese State University.
Lisa is excited to bring her expertise to support our current and future clients while learning about the cross-industry application of Human-Centered Design to leverage her past experiences and open new doors for the Sophic Team and future business partnerships.
Joshua Valdez
Graphic Communications Specialist
Josh joined the Sophic team in January 2020 as a Communications Intern. He went on to graduate from the University of Houston-Clear Lake with a bachelor’s degree in Communication. In May 2020, he transitioned to a Graphic Communications Specialist.
Josh has an extensive background in photography, graphic design, and web design.
Joshua Valdez
Graphic Communications Specialist
Josh joined the Sophic team in January 2020 as a Communications Intern. He went on to graduate from the University of Houston-Clear Lake with a bachelor’s degree in Communication. In May 2020, he transitioned to a Graphic Communications Specialist.
Josh has an extensive background in photography, graphic design, and web design.
Brina Wallace
HSI Systems Engineer
Brina joined our Sophic Team in December 2023 as an HSI Systems Engineer. She graduated from Wichita State University in 2020, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Aerospace Engineering and a minor in Mathematics.
After graduating, she joined the Dynetics HLS team, where she worked closely with Sophic on a Human-Centered Design approach for the proposed Lunar lander design. She has worked on various government and commercial spaceflight programs, providing human systems integration support via task analysis, requirements work, and risk management. She is currently pursuing her master's degree in Human Factors from Embry Riddle Aeronautical University.
Brina is excited to provide human factors and systems engineering support to our human spaceflight clients.
Brina Wallace
HSI Systems Engineer
Brina joined our Sophic Team in December 2023 as an HSI Systems Engineer. She graduated from Wichita State University in 2020, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Aerospace Engineering and a minor in Mathematics.
After graduating, she joined the Dynetics HLS team, where she worked closely with Sophic on a Human-Centered Design approach for the proposed Lunar lander design. She has worked on various government and commercial spaceflight programs, providing human systems integration support via task analysis, requirements work, and risk management. She is currently pursuing her master's degree in Human Factors from Embry Riddle Aeronautical University.
Brina is excited to provide human factors and systems engineering support to our human spaceflight clients.
Tacey Baker
Chief Operations Officer (COO)
Tacey is a certified Project Management Professional, Certified Scrum Master, and Prosci Change Management Practitioner. She received her B.S. in Biology from Texas A&M University and her MBA from Texas A&M-Commerce.
Tacey has over 30 years of experience in program/project oversight of technical personnel, enabling client success and positive change. She spent over 25 years at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston, beginning her career doing three-dimensional tissue engineering with the NASA Rotating Bioreactor. Her experience quickly expanded into developing software and hardware requirements for Biotechnology flight hardware, writing procedures and training astronaut crews, and supporting Shuttle, Mir, and International Space Station missions for the NASA Biotechnology Program. Tacey also supported the Strategy and Innovation team within NASA’s Human Health and Performance Directorate. For the last seven years, Tacey has worked for Autodesk, Inc. leading consulting programs and project teams delivering high-value outcomes to global enterprise customers in Manufacturing, and Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industries.
Tacey Baker
Chief Operations Officer (COO)
Tacey is a certified Project Management Professional, Certified Scrum Master, and Prosci Change Management Practitioner. She received her B.S. in Biology from Texas A&M University and her MBA from Texas A&M-Commerce.
Tacey has over 30 years of experience in program/project oversight of technical personnel, enabling client success and positive change. She spent over 25 years at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston, beginning her career doing three-dimensional tissue engineering with the NASA Rotating Bioreactor. Her experience quickly expanded into developing software and hardware requirements for Biotechnology flight hardware, writing procedures and training astronaut crews, and supporting Shuttle, Mir, and International Space Station missions for the NASA Biotechnology Program. Tacey also supported the Strategy and Innovation team within NASA’s Human Health and Performance Directorate. For the last seven years, Tacey has worked for Autodesk, Inc. leading consulting programs and project teams delivering high-value outcomes to global enterprise customers in Manufacturing, and Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industries.
Jennifer Forgarty, PhD
Director of Applied Health and Human Performance
Jennifer Fogarty, PhD, is the Director of the Applied Health and Extreme Environments Division at Sophic Synergistics, LLC. Sophic Synergistics is a Human Centered Design firm specializing in integrating the best practices associated with human factors and medical physiology into a business model.
Jennifer has over twenty years’ experience in human physiology and extreme environments and was most recently the NASA Human Research Program (HRP) Chief Scientist (CS) from November 2017 to January 2021. Jennifer led the development and oversight of an extensive research portfolio that addressed a very diverse set of human system risks to enable human exploration of space. This HRP CS role required communication and collaboration with Industry and Academic research and development laboratories, current NASA flight Programs, International Partners, and developmental spaceflight Programs that will be implementing human system risk reduction strategies. In addition, Jennifer established and maintained relationships and collaborations with research Programs at NASA, external institutions, and other government agencies to assess fundamental and mechanistic discoveries as well as innovative prevention and treatment strategies for application during mission design and execution. Before taking on this leadership role in the HRP, Jennifer was the Translational Scientist for NASA Space and Clinical Operations Division in the Human Health and Performance Directorate. In this role she facilitated project development and Program interactions between the operational and research communities. She identified candidates for the transition to operations process to reduce risk and resource utilization with the overall goal of preserving astronaut health and performance during and after missions. Previously, Jennifer was the Open Collaboration and Innovation Manager responsible for developing and maturing collaborations and applying tools such as technical gap analysis and open innovation platforms to further research, enhance clinical capabilities, and facilitate technology development.
Dr. Fogarty received a PhD from Texas A&M University System Health Science Center. She is currently on the editorial team for the Fundamentals of Aerospace Medicine 5th edition, regularly lectures on space physiology and human system risk management.
Jennifer Forgarty, PhD
Director of Applied Health and Human Performance
Jennifer Fogarty, PhD, is the Director of the Applied Health and Extreme Environments Division at Sophic Synergistics, LLC. Sophic Synergistics is a Human Centered Design firm specializing in integrating the best practices associated with human factors and medical physiology into a business model.
Jennifer has over twenty years’ experience in human physiology and extreme environments and was most recently the NASA Human Research Program (HRP) Chief Scientist (CS) from November 2017 to January 2021. Jennifer led the development and oversight of an extensive research portfolio that addressed a very diverse set of human system risks to enable human exploration of space. This HRP CS role required communication and collaboration with Industry and Academic research and development laboratories, current NASA flight Programs, International Partners, and developmental spaceflight Programs that will be implementing human system risk reduction strategies. In addition, Jennifer established and maintained relationships and collaborations with research Programs at NASA, external institutions, and other government agencies to assess fundamental and mechanistic discoveries as well as innovative prevention and treatment strategies for application during mission design and execution. Before taking on this leadership role in the HRP, Jennifer was the Translational Scientist for NASA Space and Clinical Operations Division in the Human Health and Performance Directorate. In this role she facilitated project development and Program interactions between the operational and research communities. She identified candidates for the transition to operations process to reduce risk and resource utilization with the overall goal of preserving astronaut health and performance during and after missions. Previously, Jennifer was the Open Collaboration and Innovation Manager responsible for developing and maturing collaborations and applying tools such as technical gap analysis and open innovation platforms to further research, enhance clinical capabilities, and facilitate technology development.
Dr. Fogarty received a PhD from Texas A&M University System Health Science Center. She is currently on the editorial team for the Fundamentals of Aerospace Medicine 5th edition, regularly lectures on space physiology and human system risk management.
Marsha Ivins
Director of Human Systems Integration (HSI)
After graduating from the University of Colorado with a BS in Aerospace Engineering, Marsha was hired by Abbot Laboratories to work as a Bio-Medical Engineer in their hospital products division.
In 1974 she was hired by the Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center in Houston, TX to work in Human Factors and Man-Machine Engineering helping to develop the Space Shuttle Orbiter cockpit layout, displays and controls, and the Head-Up Display.
In 1980 Marsha was reassigned as a flight test engineer on the Shuttle Training Aircraft, the aircraft used to train all pilots in the Shuttle final landing phase. She served as flight engineer during training flights, and during flight tests of the final approach and landing software including the HUD, night landing techniques and approaches to all designed Orbiter landing areas in the US. She was also assigned as a pilot on the NASA administrative aircraft. She holds a multi-engine Airline Transport Pilot License with Gulfstream-1 type rating, single engine airplane, land, sea, and glider commercial licenses, and airplane, instrument, and glider flight instructor ratings. She has logged over 7000 hours in civilian and NASA aircraft.
Marsha was selected as an astronaut in the class of 1984 as a Mission Specialist. A veteran of five space flights, (STS-32 in 1990, STS-46 in 1992, STS-62 in 1994, STS-81 in 1997, and STS-98 in 2001); she has logged over 1,318 hours in space.
During her tenure in the Astronaut Office, Marsha supported the Space Shuttle and Space Station programs in all areas of operational crew interface and was the Astronaut Office expert in flight crew equipment, habitability, imagery (introducing new films and camera systems), and stowage. She also provided crew representation to program safety review boards and program decisional boards, and crew support to launch checkout operations at the Kennedy Space Center. In her last 4 years with the agency, Marsha led the Astronaut Office team supporting the Constellation Program and the Commercial Crew Development initiative.
In 2010 Marsha retired after a 37-year career with NASA. Since then she has done flight test work for aircraft sensor systems, served as a consultant to the last IMAX space film documentary released in 2015, consulted on commercial spacecraft software independent verification and validation, and supported proposal work on a human lunar landing vehicle from the crew operations and human systems integrations perspective. In June 2023 she joined Sophic Synergistics as the Director of Human Systems Integration.
Marsha Ivins
Director of Human Systems Integration (HSI)
After graduating from the University of Colorado with a BS in Aerospace Engineering, Marsha was hired by Abbot Laboratories to work as a Bio-Medical Engineer in their hospital products division.
In 1974 she was hired by the Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center in Houston, TX to work in Human Factors and Man-Machine Engineering helping to develop the Space Shuttle Orbiter cockpit layout, displays and controls, and the Head-Up Display.
In 1980 Marsha was reassigned as a flight test engineer on the Shuttle Training Aircraft, the aircraft used to train all pilots in the Shuttle final landing phase. She served as flight engineer during training flights, and during flight tests of the final approach and landing software including the HUD, night landing techniques and approaches to all designed Orbiter landing areas in the US. She was also assigned as a pilot on the NASA administrative aircraft. She holds a multi-engine Airline Transport Pilot License with Gulfstream-1 type rating, single engine airplane, land, sea, and glider commercial licenses, and airplane, instrument, and glider flight instructor ratings. She has logged over 7000 hours in civilian and NASA aircraft.
Marsha was selected as an astronaut in the class of 1984 as a Mission Specialist. A veteran of five space flights, (STS-32 in 1990, STS-46 in 1992, STS-62 in 1994, STS-81 in 1997, and STS-98 in 2001); she has logged over 1,318 hours in space.
During her tenure in the Astronaut Office, Marsha supported the Space Shuttle and Space Station programs in all areas of operational crew interface and was the Astronaut Office expert in flight crew equipment, habitability, imagery (introducing new films and camera systems), and stowage. She also provided crew representation to program safety review boards and program decisional boards, and crew support to launch checkout operations at the Kennedy Space Center. In her last 4 years with the agency, Marsha led the Astronaut Office team supporting the Constellation Program and the Commercial Crew Development initiative.
In 2010 Marsha retired after a 37-year career with NASA. Since then she has done flight test work for aircraft sensor systems, served as a consultant to the last IMAX space film documentary released in 2015, consulted on commercial spacecraft software independent verification and validation, and supported proposal work on a human lunar landing vehicle from the crew operations and human systems integrations perspective. In June 2023 she joined Sophic Synergistics as the Director of Human Systems Integration.
Raquel Garcia
Human Factors Specialist
Raquel started her career at Sophic in March 2019. She joined us as a Human Factors Intern from the University of Houston-Clear Lake and upon earning her Master of Science degree in Applied Cognitive Psychology with a specialization in Human Factors, she transitioned to a full-time specialist.
Raquel is an experienced Human Factors Specialist. Driven by her desire to advocate for the safety of the human, she takes great pride in providing the best human-centered design methodologies into every project she is assigned to. She currently works closely with our medical device clients and aerospace clients.
Raquel Garcia
Human Factors Specialist
Raquel started her career at Sophic in March 2019. She joined us as a Human Factors Intern from the University of Houston-Clear Lake and upon earning her Master of Science degree in Applied Cognitive Psychology with a specialization in Human Factors, she transitioned to a full-time specialist.
Raquel is an experienced Human Factors Specialist. Driven by her desire to advocate for the safety of the human, she takes great pride in providing the best human-centered design methodologies into every project she is assigned to. She currently works closely with our medical device clients and aerospace clients.
Lorrie Primeaux
HSI Sr. Project Manager
Lorrie joined the Sophic Team in January 2024 as our HSI Sr. Project Manager for xEVAS.
Lorrie earned a B.S. in Biology from the University of Houston – Clear Lake, along with a certificate in Biotechnology. She has 20 years of experience in requirements documentation, integration, implementation, and project management.
Working at NASA’s Johnson Space Center (JSC) in Houston for 20 years, Lorrie began her career tailoring cell science experiments for spaceflight, which involved writing procedures, training astronaut crew, and supporting International Space Station missions for the NASA Biotechnology Program. Lorrie then moved on to support the Flight Analogs group where she has fulfilled multiple roles over the last 18 years. Starting out as an integration coordinator working with Principal Investigator teams to integrate science for implementation, she quickly made a move towards project management and served as the Project Planning and Support Lead, Operations Lead, Project Manager, and Analog Science Lead all while serving as a subtask manager for the task order. While most of her time was spent supporting Flight Analogs in multiple platforms (e.g. bed rest, isolated confined and controlled, parabolic flight, etc.) she also oversaw the flight side of integration and implementation as well and completed her tenure at JSC as Task Order Manager for the Research Operations and Integration Element under the Human Health and Performance Contract.
Lorrie Primeaux
HSI Sr. Project Manager
Lorrie joined the Sophic Team in January 2024 as our HSI Sr. Project Manager for xEVAS.
Lorrie earned a B.S. in Biology from the University of Houston – Clear Lake, along with a certificate in Biotechnology. She has 20 years of experience in requirements documentation, integration, implementation, and project management.
Working at NASA’s Johnson Space Center (JSC) in Houston for 20 years, Lorrie began her career tailoring cell science experiments for spaceflight, which involved writing procedures, training astronaut crew, and supporting International Space Station missions for the NASA Biotechnology Program. Lorrie then moved on to support the Flight Analogs group where she has fulfilled multiple roles over the last 18 years. Starting out as an integration coordinator working with Principal Investigator teams to integrate science for implementation, she quickly made a move towards project management and served as the Project Planning and Support Lead, Operations Lead, Project Manager, and Analog Science Lead all while serving as a subtask manager for the task order. While most of her time was spent supporting Flight Analogs in multiple platforms (e.g. bed rest, isolated confined and controlled, parabolic flight, etc.) she also oversaw the flight side of integration and implementation as well and completed her tenure at JSC as Task Order Manager for the Research Operations and Integration Element under the Human Health and Performance Contract.
Russell Whitten
HSI Sr. Project Manager
Russell joined the Sophic Team in October 2024 as a Project Manager and has a strong aerospace background.
Russell is a 10-year Air Force Veteran and has been stationed at bases across the U.S. and overseas. During his military service he was a project manager, quality assurance inspector, and an aerospace mechanic with a focus on structural modification and repairs. Some of his favorite aircraft he has worked on are the; F-15 Strike Eagle, AC-130 Gunships, HH-60, and CV-22 Osprey. He has a passion for leading diverse teams to get things done!
After serving in the military, he obtained his Bachelor’s Degree in Applied Sciences from the University of Houston - Downtown. Since graduating, he has worked for several leading companies in the aerospace industry both on the government and commercial sides. He is excited to be back in the aerospace industry and can’t wait for the new challenges Sophic will offer.
Russell Whitten
HSI Sr. Project Manager
Russell joined the Sophic Team in October 2024 as a Project Manager and has a strong aerospace background.
Russell is a 10-year Air Force Veteran and has been stationed at bases across the U.S. and overseas. During his military service he was a project manager, quality assurance inspector, and an aerospace mechanic with a focus on structural modification and repairs. Some of his favorite aircraft he has worked on are the; F-15 Strike Eagle, AC-130 Gunships, HH-60, and CV-22 Osprey. He has a passion for leading diverse teams to get things done!
After serving in the military, he obtained his Bachelor’s Degree in Applied Sciences from the University of Houston - Downtown. Since graduating, he has worked for several leading companies in the aerospace industry both on the government and commercial sides. He is excited to be back in the aerospace industry and can’t wait for the new challenges Sophic will offer.
Holly Adams
Applied Health and Human Factors Specialist
Holly joined the Sophic Team in October 2024 as an Applied Health and Human Factors Specialist.
She’s an experienced Human Factors Engineer and Registered Nurse. Since becoming a Registered Nurse in 2010, she has been dedicated to improving processes and workflows to enhance patient safety. This dedication prompted her to attend Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, where she earned a Bachelor's Degree in Human Factors Psychology with a minor in Life Sciences and a Master’s Degree in Human Factors.
Her dual background empowers her to bridge the gap between healthcare and human factors, bringing a unique perspective to clinicians' challenges. Driven by her passion for healthcare improvement, she challenges the status quo: "That's how we've always done it."
Her Human Factors experience includes working in the medical device space, where she conducted user evaluation studies and contextual inquiries that focused on refining products, processes, and workflows for multiple multinational corporations. She is committed to fostering a safer, more efficient healthcare environment for patients and providers.
Holly has experience in use-related risk assessments, gap analysis, and data-driven recommendations and is an active member of the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society (HFES) and an associate-level Board-Certified Human Factors practitioner with the BCPE. She remains committed to advocating for patient safety and advancing healthcare systems through Human Factors.
Holly Adams
Applied Health and Human Factors Specialist
Holly joined the Sophic Team in October 2024 as an Applied Health and Human Factors Specialist.
She’s an experienced Human Factors Engineer and Registered Nurse. Since becoming a Registered Nurse in 2010, she has been dedicated to improving processes and workflows to enhance patient safety. This dedication prompted her to attend Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, where she earned a Bachelor's Degree in Human Factors Psychology with a minor in Life Sciences and a Master’s Degree in Human Factors.
Her dual background empowers her to bridge the gap between healthcare and human factors, bringing a unique perspective to clinicians' challenges. Driven by her passion for healthcare improvement, she challenges the status quo: "That's how we've always done it."
Her Human Factors experience includes working in the medical device space, where she conducted user evaluation studies and contextual inquiries that focused on refining products, processes, and workflows for multiple multinational corporations. She is committed to fostering a safer, more efficient healthcare environment for patients and providers.
Holly has experience in use-related risk assessments, gap analysis, and data-driven recommendations and is an active member of the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society (HFES) and an associate-level Board-Certified Human Factors practitioner with the BCPE. She remains committed to advocating for patient safety and advancing healthcare systems through Human Factors.
Hailee Aklyan
Human Factors Specialist
Hailee joined Sophic in 2023 as a Human Factors Specialist. Prior to joining the team, she attended the University of Nevada, where she received a Bachelor of Science degree in Kinesiology in May 2020, and the University of Idaho, where she earned a Master of Science degree in Experimental Psychology with Emphasis in Human Factors in May 2023.
She is excited to work closely with our aerospace clients where she can showcase her skills in Ergonomics, Biomechanics, and Human-Centered Design.
Hailee Aklyan
Human Factors Specialist
Hailee joined Sophic in 2023 as a Human Factors Specialist. Prior to joining the team, she attended the University of Nevada, where she received a Bachelor of Science degree in Kinesiology in May 2020, and the University of Idaho, where she earned a Master of Science degree in Experimental Psychology with Emphasis in Human Factors in May 2023.
She is excited to work closely with our aerospace clients where she can showcase her skills in Ergonomics, Biomechanics, and Human-Centered Design.
Dylan Dupree
Human Factors Specialist
Dylan joined the Sophic Team as a Human Factors Specialist in February 2023. He attended Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Factors.
Dylan brings an integral understanding of Human Factors principles coupled with an applied skill set gained through field experiences in the Aviation/Aerospace domains. He holds specialized interests in Ergonomics, Anthropometry, VR/AR, and Usability.
Dylan is excited to join the team here at Sophic Synergistics and is looking forward to gaining valuable industry experience, hands-on HF design knowledge, and professional growth.
Dylan Dupree
Human Factors Specialist
Dylan joined the Sophic Team as a Human Factors Specialist in February 2023. He attended Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Factors.
Dylan brings an integral understanding of Human Factors principles coupled with an applied skill set gained through field experiences in the Aviation/Aerospace domains. He holds specialized interests in Ergonomics, Anthropometry, VR/AR, and Usability.
Dylan is excited to join the team here at Sophic Synergistics and is looking forward to gaining valuable industry experience, hands-on HF design knowledge, and professional growth.
Robel Fegadu
Human Factors Specialist
Robel joined our Sophic Team in April 2024 as a Human Factors Specialist. He holds a Master's Degree in Industrial and Human Factors Engineering from Wright State University and a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Ohio State University.
Robel brings with him a diverse background in aviation and manufacturing gained through previous roles. He holds special interests in ergonomics and the aviation/ aerospace industry. Robel is excited to be a part of the Sophic Team and looks forward to expanding his knowledge of human factors and gaining valuable industry experience by working closely with our aerospace clients.
Robel Fegadu
Human Factors Specialist
Robel joined our Sophic Team in April 2024 as a Human Factors Specialist. He holds a Master's Degree in Industrial and Human Factors Engineering from Wright State University and a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Ohio State University.
Robel brings with him a diverse background in aviation and manufacturing gained through previous roles. He holds special interests in ergonomics and the aviation/ aerospace industry. Robel is excited to be a part of the Sophic Team and looks forward to expanding his knowledge of human factors and gaining valuable industry experience by working closely with our aerospace clients.
Mark Hollister
Human Factors Specialist
Mark joined the Sophic Team as a Human Factors Specialist in August 2024. He graduated from Auburn University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Design, and a Master of Science Degree from Virginia Tech in Industrial and Systems Engineering, concentrating in Human Factors and Ergonomics Engineering.
Mark has experience working on various product design and UX design projects with Emerson, CSP Technologies, and NASA. While interning at NASA Marshall Space Flight Center and NASA Langley Research Center, Mark helped design, evaluate, and write requirements for pressurized Mars rover concepts, cis-lunar microgravity habitat workstations, and lunar surface habitats. Mark also brings experience in augmented and virtual reality through prior NASA and Virginia Tech work, including research on using AR to enhance safety for exoskeleton operators.
With this experience and passion for design and human factors for aerospace and XR technologies, Mark is thrilled to join the Sophic Team and continue striving for design excellence for our clients.
Mark Hollister
Human Factors Specialist
Mark joined the Sophic Team as a Human Factors Specialist in August 2024. He graduated from Auburn University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Design, and a Master of Science Degree from Virginia Tech in Industrial and Systems Engineering, concentrating in Human Factors and Ergonomics Engineering.
Mark has experience working on various product design and UX design projects with Emerson, CSP Technologies, and NASA. While interning at NASA Marshall Space Flight Center and NASA Langley Research Center, Mark helped design, evaluate, and write requirements for pressurized Mars rover concepts, cis-lunar microgravity habitat workstations, and lunar surface habitats. Mark also brings experience in augmented and virtual reality through prior NASA and Virginia Tech work, including research on using AR to enhance safety for exoskeleton operators.
With this experience and passion for design and human factors for aerospace and XR technologies, Mark is thrilled to join the Sophic Team and continue striving for design excellence for our clients.
Jaelyn Kelly
Applied Health Specialist
Jaelyn received a Bachelor’s of Science degree from the University of Houston in Physics with a minor in Mathematics. While at UH, her research consisted of tissue and wound healing simulation in theoretical biophysics, as well as designing and engineering astrobiological housing to capture extremophiles in space while working the space and radiation lab. She then pursued a Masters (MS) in Kinesiology with a focus in Exercise Physiology with the intent to return one day to working on human and space-focused endeavors.
The bulk of her clinical experience was gained during the pandemic where she expanded her scope of practice to cardiology, neurology/sleep testing, and rehabilitation/therapy.
Jaelyn Kelly
Applied Health Specialist
Jaelyn received a Bachelor’s of Science degree from the University of Houston in Physics with a minor in Mathematics. While at UH, her research consisted of tissue and wound healing simulation in theoretical biophysics, as well as designing and engineering astrobiological housing to capture extremophiles in space while working the space and radiation lab. She then pursued a Masters (MS) in Kinesiology with a focus in Exercise Physiology with the intent to return one day to working on human and space-focused endeavors.
The bulk of her clinical experience was gained during the pandemic where she expanded her scope of practice to cardiology, neurology/sleep testing, and rehabilitation/therapy.
Scott Mishler
Human Factors Specialist
Scott joined the Sophic team as a Human Factors Specialist in October of 2024. He graduated with his Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Purdue University, his Master of Science Degree in Psychology from Old Dominion University and his Ph.D. in Human Factors Psychology also from Old Dominion University.
Scott has experience working on various research projects regarding automated and semi-automated vehicles, human-computer interaction, AI and computer vision, trust in automation, vigilance, warnings, phishing, and cybersecurity. He has designed systems to help combat the vigilance decrement, improve warnings for hazards in vehicles, increase user understanding of automated functions to enhance usability, prevent users from falling for phishing scams, and understand calibration for trust in automation to prevent under- and over-trust that could result in catastrophe. With his extensive experience and drive for discovery, Scott is excited to help the Sophic team deliver impactful results for our clients.
Scott Mishler
Human Factors Specialist
Scott joined the Sophic team as a Human Factors Specialist in October of 2024. He graduated with his Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Purdue University, his Master of Science Degree in Psychology from Old Dominion University and his Ph.D. in Human Factors Psychology also from Old Dominion University.
Scott has experience working on various research projects regarding automated and semi-automated vehicles, human-computer interaction, AI and computer vision, trust in automation, vigilance, warnings, phishing, and cybersecurity. He has designed systems to help combat the vigilance decrement, improve warnings for hazards in vehicles, increase user understanding of automated functions to enhance usability, prevent users from falling for phishing scams, and understand calibration for trust in automation to prevent under- and over-trust that could result in catastrophe. With his extensive experience and drive for discovery, Scott is excited to help the Sophic team deliver impactful results for our clients.
Micoy O'Meally
Human Factors Specialist
Micoy joined our Sophic team as a Human Factors Specialist in December 2023. Micoy is a graduate of Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University with a Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees in Human Factors.
Micoy brings with him knowledge of human factors principles, philosophies, and techniques to the Sophic team. He has a deep interest in complex system theory and cognitive modeling which he will be applying in his aerospace role.
He is enthusiastic about leveraging his skills across the multiple industries and clients we serve; and deepening his experience in Human-Centered Design.
Micoy O'Meally
Human Factors Specialist
Micoy joined our Sophic team as a Human Factors Specialist in December 2023. Micoy is a graduate of Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University with a Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees in Human Factors.
Micoy brings with him knowledge of human factors principles, philosophies, and techniques to the Sophic team. He has a deep interest in complex system theory and cognitive modeling which he will be applying in his aerospace role.
He is enthusiastic about leveraging his skills across the multiple industries and clients we serve; and deepening his experience in Human-Centered Design.
Lisa Pitre
Partnerships Coordinator
Lisa joined the Sophic Team in March of 2022 taking over the Partnership Coordinator Role.
Lisa has over 20 years Sales Experience in a multitude of industries that include various Advertising industries, Oil & Gas, as well as Medical. Lisa has an extensive background in Sales and Marketing and studied Business and Marketing at McNeese State University.
Lisa is excited to bring her expertise to support our current and future clients while learning about the cross-industry application of Human-Centered Design to leverage her past experiences and open new doors for the Sophic Team and future business partnerships.
Lisa Pitre
Partnerships Coordinator
Lisa joined the Sophic Team in March of 2022 taking over the Partnership Coordinator Role.
Lisa has over 20 years Sales Experience in a multitude of industries that include various Advertising industries, Oil & Gas, as well as Medical. Lisa has an extensive background in Sales and Marketing and studied Business and Marketing at McNeese State University.
Lisa is excited to bring her expertise to support our current and future clients while learning about the cross-industry application of Human-Centered Design to leverage her past experiences and open new doors for the Sophic Team and future business partnerships.
Joshua Valdez
Graphic Communications Specialist
Josh joined the Sophic team in January 2020 as a Communications Intern. He went on to graduate from the University of Houston-Clear Lake with a bachelor’s degree in Communication. In May 2020, he transitioned to a Graphic Communications Specialist.
Josh has an extensive background in photography, graphic design, and web design.
Joshua Valdez
Graphic Communications Specialist
Josh joined the Sophic team in January 2020 as a Communications Intern. He went on to graduate from the University of Houston-Clear Lake with a bachelor’s degree in Communication. In May 2020, he transitioned to a Graphic Communications Specialist.
Josh has an extensive background in photography, graphic design, and web design.
Brina Wallace
HSI Systems Engineer
Brina joined our Sophic Team in December 2023 as an HSI Systems Engineer. She graduated from Wichita State University in 2020, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Aerospace Engineering and a minor in Mathematics.
After graduating, she joined the Dynetics HLS team, where she worked closely with Sophic on a Human-Centered Design approach for the proposed Lunar lander design. She has worked on various government and commercial spaceflight programs, providing human systems integration support via task analysis, requirements work, and risk management. She is currently pursuing her master's degree in Human Factors from Embry Riddle Aeronautical University.
Brina is excited to provide human factors and systems engineering support to our human spaceflight clients.
Brina Wallace
HSI Systems Engineer
Brina joined our Sophic Team in December 2023 as an HSI Systems Engineer. She graduated from Wichita State University in 2020, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Aerospace Engineering and a minor in Mathematics.
After graduating, she joined the Dynetics HLS team, where she worked closely with Sophic on a Human-Centered Design approach for the proposed Lunar lander design. She has worked on various government and commercial spaceflight programs, providing human systems integration support via task analysis, requirements work, and risk management. She is currently pursuing her master's degree in Human Factors from Embry Riddle Aeronautical University.
Brina is excited to provide human factors and systems engineering support to our human spaceflight clients.
