Carey Smith on unmanned aerial systems

About Carey Smith

Carey Smith, president, CEO and chairwoman of Parsons, said in a December 2024 interview that the company’s portfolio is “well aligned with the Trump administration.” She described Parsons’ federal business as a “purpose-built national security company” focused on cyber, electronic warfare, space and missile defense. Smith said the Department of Government Efficiency’s objectives of reducing cost, eliminating unnecessary regulations and improving government efficiency represent an opportunity for the company. She stated that removing regulations would allow Parsons to “move very fast” and get technology to market more quickly, and that the company could propose cost-reduction ideas such as using different business models “as a service.” Smith also discussed the company’s counter-unmanned air systems work, including capabilities to detect, identify, track and defeat drones, and noted that Parsons has been doing business in the Middle East for six decades, including a 50-50 joint venture partnership in Saudi Arabia. In a 2018 appearance, Smith argued that digital transformation requires integrating people, processes and technologies to deliver a secure environment, and that organizations that do not embrace digital technology risk being left behind. She said the federal government should adopt commercial business models such as licensing and subscriptions, and use shared services so agencies pay only for what they use. Smith also predicted that autonomous vehicles would significantly change infrastructure and services within a decade.

Profile compiled from Carey Smith's verified public interviews and appearances. See all quotes & transcripts →