Barrios Technology has announced its 2025 third-quarter Silver BEAR honorees, recognizing employees who exemplify the company’s highest standards of excellence. These individuals were selected for delivering innovative solutions, driving efficiency, demonstrating proactive leadership, and excelling under pressure. Each honoree also demonstrated a strong commitment to quality, accuracy, and service. From advancing system modernization and improving technical processes to enhancing mission success and fostering collaboration, these employees continue to strengthen Barrios Technology’s impact in the space industry.

Aristeo Rios, Design Engineer Lead – Commercial Space
Aristeo (Teo) Rios is recognized for delivering exceptional leadership and engineering expertise on Intuitive Machines’ Nova-D lander and LTVS programs. Working in a fast-paced development environment, he consistently delivers ahead of schedule while driving innovation within customer processes. His ability to integrate inputs across multiple design and subsystem teams ensures cohesive, validated vehicle designs grounded in rigorous systems engineering principles.

Christopher Tyler, Senior Systems Engineer – HSFTIC

Chris Tyler is recognized for delivering exceptional value through proactive leadership, innovative process improvements, and disciplined planning across multiple programs. He anticipates and resolves issues early, streamlines complex workflows, and drives efficiency. His leadership during high-stakes reviews and credible representation of Gateway Systems Engineering and Integration have earned the trust of both NASA and Barrios leadership, reflecting his strong commitment to mission success.

Dana Tobeck, Program Control Analyst – HSFTIC

Dana is recognized for her leadership as the lead Subject Matter Expert for the Annual Work Plan, playing a key role in the successful transition from the HSFTIC contract closeout to the MTIC phase-in. Her deep understanding of the work and proactive anticipation of customer needs ensured a smooth, professional handoff between contracts.

Human Resources and IT Teams – CORP

The HR and IT teams played a critical role in the successful migration from UKG back to CostPoint. Through strong collaboration and strategic planning, they implemented the HR module, improved operational efficiency, and established a reliable new system of record. Their efforts reflected a strong commitment to process improvement, customer focus, and effective team leadership.

Karen Hagen, Configuration Management Specialist – HSFTIC

Karen Hagen is recognized for her leadership in implementing a new Change Management tool and enhancing key CM processes. She guided teams and customers through successful adoption of the Change Management Workflow, delivering exceptional customer service. Her role in executing the Orion Change Package Engineers Roadshow highlights her commitment to high-quality solutions that support mission success.

Kathy Johnson, Barrios Quality Manager – CORP

Kathy is recognized for her leadership in preparing and successfully conducting Barrios’ annual audit, ensuring full compliance with no corrective action findings. Her efforts are critical to maintaining AS9100 certification, a key requirement for work with NASA and other government agencies, and play a central role in the company’s continued success.

Laney Ciaccio, Project Engineer – Commercial

Laney Ciaccio is recognized for executing critical systems engineering functions during Phase 1 of the Intuitive Machines LTVS contract, including leading Crew Assessment Team for Safety testing and developing key documentation tools. Her strong performance led to her selection as SE&I Lead for the emerging Nebula Program, where she continues to demonstrate technical excellence, sound judgment, and adaptability in fast-paced, evolving environments early in her career.

Samantha Alvarez, Project Coordinator – HSFTIC

Samantha Alvarez is recognized for anticipating customer needs and delivering proactive solutions that support mission success. She played a key role in organizing complex international Technical Interchange Meetings involving NASA and JAXA participants, ensuring seamless execution through detailed planning and coordination. Her work developing international travel and data-sharing policies and a secure collaboration platform has strengthened communication and streamlined global operations.

The BEAR Awards Program honors superior performance and outstanding contributions toward customer and company goals. Each quarter, employees are nominated, and their achievements are independently scored by employees for the Silver BEAR Award. Silver Award recipients automatically become candidates for the prestigious annual Gold BEAR Award.