From the softball diamond to the forefront of homeland security research, Casey Lownes has forged a path marked by determination, adaptability, and a passionate pursuit of excellence (and efficiency). What began as a promising career in athletics has evolved into a pivotal role at Arizona State University’s Center for Accelerating Operational Efficiency (CAOE), where Lownes, recently promoted, now plays a key part in shaping research that enhances national security. Her story is one of thoughtful transitions, family inspiration, and the drive to make a meaningful impact in a field that is as complex as it is critical.
A Pathway to Leadership
Casey Lownes’ journey from collegiate athlete to a key figure in the Department of Homeland Security’s Center for Accelerating Operational Efficiency (CAOE) is a story of determination, adaptability, and passion. With a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Ottawa University and an MBA from Oklahoma Wesleyan University, Casey has spent the last two years at Arizona State University’s CAOE, contributing to research that enhances homeland security operations.
As a former collegiate softball player at Ottawa University, Casey initially envisioned a career with the FBI, driven by an interest in psychology. However, an opportunity to serve as a graduate assistant softball coach at Oklahoma Wesleyan University led her down a different path. The role allowed her to pursue an MBA while honing her leadership and management skills. “Being a softball coach was great hands-on training while getting my MBA,” Casey reflects. “I learned a lot about project management from creating schedules, planning travel, and managing finances.”
Service as a Family Tradition
Lownes’ journey has been deeply influenced by her family, particularly her father and mother, who have both played pivotal roles in shaping her career and values. “My dad has been such a huge influence in my life – from teaching me how to play baseball to supporting my academic, athletic, and career choices,” Lownes shared.
Along with her brothers, Lownes’ father taught them how to play baseball early, ultimately paving the way to her rewarding time as a softball player and coach. Her father’s background as a military pilot and project manager also gave Lownes a formative glimpse into the rewarding life of service.
“Even now, I still call him for advice – project management or otherwise; has so much knowledge and wisdom,” Lownes said.
While her father’s influence is evident, Casey also credits her mother for being a significant source of inspiration. “My mom, who works in finance, deserves so much credit! She went back to school when I was younger and has had an amazing career. She’s taught me so much and I’m so grateful for her,” Lownes said, emphasizing the impact her mother’s determination and resilience had on her own approach to life and work.
“It feels almost cosmic that I ended up at ASU,” Lownes said. “I was a huge ASU softball fan as a kid, and when I first investigated grad school, ASU was high on my list. To be working here now, especially in such a meaningful role, feels like everything has come full circle. My incredible and supportive husband, Alex, works at ASU as well, so ASU feels like home.”
Leadership and Skills at CAOE
In her role at CAOE, Casey’s responsibilities are broad and impactful, encompassing general program maintenance, hiring, financial oversight, and reporting. These duties, combined with her experience in managing projects independently, have equipped her with the skills necessary for her recent promotion to Project Manager Associate.
A significant project that Casey led was under the CAOE Principal Investigator Dr. Thomas Kull, professor of supply chain management at ASU, focusing on the Department of Homeland Security’s Procurement Innovation Lab (PIL). This initiative focuses on understanding and enhancing the organizational culture within DHS by applying innovative procurement techniques. With her MBA and project management background, Lownes took a personal interest in the project and played a key role in its success. Her leadership was evident as she conducted numerous update meetings, often serving as the sole CAOE representative. Her meticulous note-taking and analysis were crucial in driving the project forward and ensuring its success.
Amy Bennett, Assistant Director for CAOE, noted, “It was Casey’s initiative and leadership with the Kull project that set the trajectory for her promotion.”
Casey believes that being organized, willing to research and ask questions, and able to function in high-stress environments are essential skills for successfully managing projects. These attributes have been critical in her role at CAOE, where she supports researchers and students and ensures that their work contributes to enhancing homeland security operations.
Vision and Future Aspirations
Looking forward, Casey is committed to advancing her career within government work and centers of excellence. She envisions herself taking on more advanced project management roles and is currently pursuing a new certificate to further her expertise. “I want to stay in the field of government work and centers of excellence in more advanced project management roles,” she shared. “I’m going for a new certificate and hope DHS and the government are always in my career path.”
Despite the demands of her career, Casey places a strong emphasis on maintaining a work-life balance. “When it’s time to go home, I try to leave work at work though it doesn’t always work out that way, but it’s a personal goal,” she notes. This approach helps her stay grounded and focused, ensuring she can bring her best to both her professional and personal life. In her spare time she enjoys spending time with family and friends and reading a good book.
For young professionals aspiring to work in project management within the homeland security sector, Casey offers valuable advice: “Do the work, keep learning, and try to challenge yourself when you can.” Her own career is an example of the importance of continuous learning, adaptability, and the willingness to take on challenges.
Casey finds the most rewarding aspect of her role to be helping students at CAOE. “They’re always so appreciative and will come back and follow up with us, letting us know how CAOE influenced their education and next steps,” she said. This sense of impact and contribution to both education and national security drives her passion for the work.
As Lownes continues to grow in her new role, her story serves as an inspiration to those who aspire to make a difference in any field. Her journey from the softball field to a leadership position at CAOE is a powerful example of how diverse experiences can shape and define a successful career.