Most of Anita Jones' career has been dedicated to teaching and research in computer science. Now,though, she is the director of Defense Research and Engineering for the U. S. Department of Defense, a position "two people away" from the Secretary of Defense.
Anita comments, "I have one of the best jobs in the country that a scientist can have to influence science policy. I oversee the Defense Department's program for exploring new scientific ideas and for developing technology for new systems to assure U.S. security. I help determine what science is investigated and what technology is developed. The annual budget is large-almost $8 billion this year."
The program that Anita oversees must deliver new technology options to maintain the United States' technology-based edge over potential adversaries. Areas of interest include electronics, computer science, ocean acoustics, composite materials, aero-propulsion, and radar--just to name a few. Technological superiority is crucial to protecting the men and women who go to war, who perform humanitarian aid, and who serve as peacekeepers.
Anita studied mathematics in college, then earned a master's degree in English literature--for the fun of it. After working as a programmer, she went on to earn a Ph.D. in computer science. "I decided that I would have the most fun in professional life if I 'went where the action is,'" she said. "When I chose computer science as a career back in the 1960s, it was clear that computers were changing the world rapidly. They are changing it even more rapidly today. You really should choose a career based on what excites you. It worked for me."
Besides being a university professor, most recently at the University of Virginia, she helped start a software company, which was "challenging," she said. "You become responsible for meeting the payroll that supports the employees and their families. You have to make careful decisions because you want to do the best for them and for the company."
Anita says it is natural for her to be in the Pentagon because of her long-time involvement with universities and companies that worked on science and technology problems for the Defense Department and with several defense advisory committees. Anita considers her job to be "crucial." It is an honor to even hold this job. Every day brings surprises and opportunities to do things that matter."
Anita remembers her father's advice to "pick a career that I liked 'better than fishing.'" She followed that advice, and her strong science and engineering background opens many doors. Her career has taken her to many countries in Europe, as well as Russia, India, and Egypt. "It even took me to the White House Christmas party, where I met the Clintons. The best part of such jobs is meeting and working with interesting and achievement-oriented people. Life is never dull, and you have the opportunity to make a difference."