Student Research Symposium Program Portal: Submission #164

Primary Student Contact First Name: Nathan
Primary Student Contact Last Name: Cerletty
Pronouns: {Empty}
Primary Student Contact FSU Student Email: njc24e@fsu.edu
Photo of all individuals presenting this work: https://pc.fsu.edu/system/files/webform/research_portal/9012/Headshot%20FIT.jpg
Major(s) of all individuals presenting this work: MS Systems Engineering
Bio of all individuals presenting this work:
I am an aerospace engineering professional focused on systems integration, verification and validation along with cross-functional leadership within defense programs. I earned my BS in Aerospace Engineering, Cum Laude, from the Florida Institute of Technology in 2023, with concentrations in astronautics, propulsion, aerodynamics, and orbital mechanics. During my undergraduate studies, I developed a strong interest in space operations and the ground support infrastructure that enables launch and missile systems.

Since August 2023, I have served as a Systems Engineer at Northrop Grumman, where I support the definition, integration, and documentation of special test equipment for high-value aerospace programs. In this role, I have led a three-engineer team developing system architecture and test plans exceeding 20 million dollars, collaborated closely with the Office of the Chief Engineer, and helped align technical execution with evolving customer and contractual requirements while reducing program risk.

In parallel, I am completing a Master of Science in Systems Engineering at Florida State University, expected in May 2026, along with a Graduate Certificate in Systems Engineering Leadership. My prior experience includes internships at Lockheed Martin supporting multiple fixed- and rotary-wing platforms. My career goal is to combine technical rigor and leadership to deliver reliable, mission-critical aerospace systems.

Poster Title: Quiet Authority in Extreme Environments: The Leadership Legacy of Neil Armstrong
Abstract:
This paper examines the leadership legacy of Neil Armstrong through the lens of contemporary 
leadership theory and motivational research. Although widely recognized for commanding the 
Apollo Eleven mission, Armstrong’s influence extended far beyond a single historic event. His 
leadership was grounded in disciplined judgment, ethical responsibility, and technical mastery 
developed through naval aviation, experimental flight testing, and human spaceflight. Using 
frameworks related to visionary, learner, team oriented, achiever, optimizer, and key contributor 
motivations, this analysis demonstrates how Armstrong consistently aligned internal motivation 
with observable behavior. His calm decision-making during Gemini Eight and Apollo Eleven 
illustrates ethical climate reinforcement, emotional intelligence, and values-based courage under 
pressure. Additionally, his emphasis on collective achievement and openness to technical input 
contributed to a culture of trust, accountability, and constructive dialogue. By integrating 
motivation theory, ethical leadership research, and systems-based leadership principles, this 
paper argues that Armstrong exemplified quiet authority in extreme environments. His leadership 
model offers a durable framework for ethical, disciplined, and purpose driven influence in 
modern high risk and technically complex organizations.

Research Mentor Name: Dr. Georgiadis
Research Mentor's College (or High School): College of Engineering
Research Mentor's Department (or Subject): IME
Research Mentor's Email: dgeorgiadis@eng.famu.fsu.edu
Additional Research Mentor(s): {Empty}
Co-presenter(s): {Empty}
Keywords: Leadership, Teamwork, Discipline, Moon Landing, Mission Focus
Poster Session/Number: {Empty}
Work: Complete
Presentation Modality: Asynchronous Online Presentation
Year: 2026
Annual description: 5th annual Undergraduate Research Symposium, April 17, 2025
Update URL: https://pc.fsu.edu/student-research/symposium/research-symposium-program-portal?element_parents=elements/student_photo&ajax_form=1&_wrapper_format=drupal_ajax&token=x7b6u5VEXDDjs28LANLkYbqZ56MmLlW7x6rkPeg5tkg
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