Our Team
Meet our interdisciplinary team of James Madison University undergraduate students as we work on developing our products. The six of us represent seven diverse courses of study, which not only helps to give us a balanced perspective, but also makes things much more fun. Scroll below to learn more about each of our courses of study, experiences, and contributions.
Kaitlyn Goudey
Kaitlyn is a Political Science major and a Writing, Rhetoric, and Technical Communications minor. Her participation in several collaborative cross-disciplinary projects, including a S.T.E.A.M design thinking course, has sharpened her communication and analytical skills. She believes Hacking 4 Defense will allow her to showcase these skills in reference to real-world problems, as well as introduce her to many valuable connections. Post graduation, Kaitlyn hopes to pursue a career within the Department of State or on Capital Hill.
Jaron Martinez
Jaron Martinez is a junior Integrated Science and Technology (ISAT) major at James Madison University with a concentration in Information and Knowledge Management (IKM) and a minor in Computer Information Systems. He has experience, both through education and internship work, in computer programming, discrete mathematics, circuitry, systems design, IT management, and project management. He hopes to pursue a career as a technology consultant for government contractors aiming to optimize the efficiency and effectiveness of their processes. Through Hacking for Defense, Jaron seeks to understand the challenges the U.S. government faces and how he may apply systems thinking to address them.
Hunter Olson
Hunter Olson is currently a senior at James Madison University majoring in International Affairs with a concentration in International Relations. Through his service in the JMU Valley Scholars Program and Harrisonburg refugee community, Hunter hopes to use his teamwork and communication qualities to benefit his team. Hunter joined Hacking 4Defense to build his professional skill set and take on the challenge of solving real-world issues. He is looking forward to working with the professional sponsors and learning from them as much as he can.
Adam Pinegar
Adam Pinegar is a junior at James Madison University pursuing an Engineering major with a Mathematics minor. Adam’s capstone project, which is building an electric motorcycle, epitomizes his ability to excel with hands-on projects to create solutions for clients. He joined Hacking or Defense to gain knowledge on how to expand upon his networking abilities. Adam hopes to build upon his automotive restoration projects in finding a career producing solutions for an automotive company.
Melissa Toman
Melissa Toman is a junior Intelligence Analysis and International Affairs double major at James Madison University, with concentrations in National Security and International Conflict and Security. Her participation in JMU’s Hacking4Diplomacy course last semester has enhanced her leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills. In addition, she has educational training in computer programming, foreign affairs, and various analytic techniques. Her goal is to pursue a career in the Intelligence Community as either an Intelligence Analyst or Special Agent.
Matthew Whitacre
Matthew Whitacre is a senior finishing his last semester at James Madison University working towards his Bachelor of Business Administration as a Computer Information Systems major. He has educational training and interest in multiple programming languages, database management skills, system analysis, and requirements elicitation. His plan is to pursue a career in the technology industry and its involvement with the national government as either a Customer Relations Management specialist or as a Project Manager. Matthew aspires to help plan and create programs to help streamline processes and their maximize efficiency.