Dustin J. Ober
Data Scientist & ML Engineer
Data Scientist specializing in NLP, Machine Learning, and Production ML Systems. 30+ models deployed for defense and intelligence applications.
Data Science & ML Technologies
Production-ready tools and frameworks used across 30+ deployed ML models
Data Science Core
Deep Learning
NLP & LLMs
ML Ops & Infrastructure
Databases
Visualization
Technical Skills
Data Science & ML
Languages & Frameworks
ML Ops & DevOps
Accessibility & Compliance
Instructional Design
Technical & Operational Expertise
I have solid experience in scripting with Python to support data analysis, automation, and process optimization. I utilize Python libraries such as Pandas, NumPy, and Matplotlib for analyzing training data, identifying trends, and generating insights. Additionally, I have applied web scraping techniques to automate the collection of diverse datasets, enhancing data gathering efficiency. My scripting skills enable me to build custom scripts that streamline repetitive tasks and manage large datasets.
I have demonstrated strong project leadership skills by managing multiple complex training and development projects from inception to completion. My approach involves setting clear objectives, defining project scope, managing resources, and establishing effective communication channels. I am adept at utilizing project management methodologies to prioritize tasks, mitigate risks, and deliver projects on time and within budget, fostering a collaborative and high-performing team environment.
I have extensive experience in creating learner-centered programs that align with organizational goals. I design comprehensive curricula by conducting thorough needs assessments and incorporating adult learning principles. My approach integrates various instructional methods, including instructor-led training, e-learning, and blended learning. I use data analysis to evaluate curriculum effectiveness, ensuring that curricula not only meet compliance standards but also promote measurable learning outcomes.
Professional Experience
My career represents an intentional progression from military technical instruction → data-driven instructional design → full-stack ML engineering. Each phase built capabilities in the next: understanding how people learn informed how I design AI systems that teach and explain.
Contract-based roles supporting classified defense and intelligence missions. Project transitions reflect mission requirements, not job changes.
ML Engineering & AI Development
Production ML systems and NLP models for defense applications
- Letter of Appreciation: Received formal customer recognition for leading AI implementation into workflows, products, and processes.
- Custom NER Models: Designed and deployed Named Entity Recognition models for specialized intelligence datasets, achieving extraction accuracy exceeding industry benchmarks.
- Production ML Pipelines: Trained and deployed 30+ ML models using TensorFlow and DSPy, streamlining data extraction from enterprise systems into production insights.
- ML Infrastructure: Built secure FastAPI REST services with JWT authentication and Dockerized deployments ensuring 99.9% consistency across environments.
- Technical Leadership: Lead PMP Instructor for 4+ cohorts PMP 2026 Exam Prep Ebook
Data-Driven Instructional Systems
Applied data science to optimize training outcomes across defense programs
- Award Nomination: Nominated for Schoolhouse Training Award for 4-week core-skills course matching agency certification standards.
- Directed team of three designers, applying Agile methodologies to course development pipelines.
- Managed portfolio of 8 technical courses, leveraging analytics to optimize learning outcomes.
- Data-Driven Optimization: Leveraged Python (Pandas/NumPy) to analyze training trends, leading to 20% improvement in completion rates.
- 97% Automation: Built automated data pipeline reducing report generation from 1 week to 30 minutes.
- Accessibility Leadership: Created searchable Section 508/WCAG database adopted organization-wide by NCTC.
- Rapid Delivery: Developed and deployed 5 comprehensive WBTs within 90 days.
- Designed interactive digital learning materials using eLearning authoring tools.
- Led curriculum development for NDCAC tools, geolocation, and CLOUD ACT training.
- Curriculum Innovation: Led development of Cyber Drug Investigator Course, identifying 290+ critical tasks via Job Task Analysis.
Earlier Career
Military instruction and technical training foundations
- Maintained technical training database with 1,000+ entries at 100% accuracy.
- Authored 52 technical scenarios for firearms training simulators.
What Colleagues Say
“Dustin's ability to bridge the gap between complex AI implementation and instructional strategy is unmatched. He doesn't just build models; he builds solutions that people can actually use and learn from.”
“A rare talent who masters both ISD and Data Science. Dustin's automated workflows saved our team hundreds of hours while significantly improving the accuracy of our mission-critical training metrics.”
Technical Insights
Scaling LLM Evaluation with DSPy
How we transitioned from manual prompt engineering to programmatically optimized pipelines using DSPy assertions to ensure 99% extraction accuracy.
The Future of Neuro-Symbolic Tutors
Exploration of combining deep learning's pattern recognition with symbolic logic to create hyper-personalized, verifiable learning paths.
Education
Graduate Certificate in AI Systems Management
Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Instructional Design & Technology
BS in Management / CIS
AAS in Criminal Justice
Professional Certifications
Industry-recognized credentials in AI, Machine Learning, and Data Science
AI & Machine Learning
- Deep LearningUdacity Nanodegree
- Natural Language ProcessingUdacity Nanodegree
- Computer VisionUdacity Nanodegree
- Generative AIUdacity Nanodegree
- Artificial IntelligenceUdacity Nanodegree
- Deep Reinforcement LearningUdacity Nanodegree
- Intro to Machine Learning (PyTorch)Udacity Nanodegree
- AI Programming with PythonUdacity Nanodegree
- AI Product ManagerUdacity Nanodegree
Data & Cloud Platforms
- Generative AI FundamentalsDatabricks
- Lakehouse Platform EssentialsDatabricks
- Cloud Practitioner (Foundational)AWS
- Business AnalyticsUdacity Nanodegree
- Statistics for Data AnalysisUdacity Nanodegree
Project Management
- Project Management Professional (PMP)PMI
Including PMP, AI/ML, and Data Science credentials
Research papers on AI infrastructure and security
Measurable outcomes with government and enterprise clients
Trusted for sensitive defense and intelligence projects