Kelly Diaz

Kelly Diaz is a program manager in the National Security Analysis Department at APL, where she has been a key member of the Laboratory’s national security analysis team since 2022. She leads the Advanced Concepts and Capabilities program, which focuses on incorporating cutting-edge digital wargaming, modeling and simulation, and advanced analytics to enhance the National Security Analysis Mission Area’s technical capabilities. The program aims to address complex national security challenges and inform strategic decision-making through innovative and data-driven approaches. Before joining APL, Diaz served as a research scientist at the Center for Naval Analyses (CNA), where she led organizational effectiveness and efficiency studies, supported wargaming efforts, and facilitated design thinking workshops to drive innovation and improvement across various Navy and Marine Corps programs. Her research and analysis experience has enabled her to develop a unique understanding of the intersection of national security strategy and advanced analytics, positioning her to drive impactful results in her role at APL. Diaz holds a B.A. in history from the University of Virginia and an M.A. in strategic studies and economics from the Johns Hopkins University School of Advanced International Studies, where she honed her expertise in global security, economic analysis, and strategic planning.