Quick Facts
Biography
Sean Gerard Joseph Stackley (born August 7, 1957) became Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Research, Development and Acquisition in July 2008. As the Navy’s acquisition executive, Stackley is responsible for the research, development and acquisition of Navy and Marine Corps platforms and warfare systems which includes oversight of more than 100,000 people and an annual budget in excess of $50 billion. A memo released on January 19, 2017 stated that Stackley will serve as acting Secretary of Navy after Trump takes office.
Early career
Prior to his appointment to ASN (RDA), Stackley served as a professional staff member of the United States Senate Committee on Armed Services. During his tenure with the Committee, he was responsible for overseeing Navy and Marine Corps programs, U.S. Transportation Command matters and related policy for the Seapower Subcommittee. He also advised on Navy and Marine Corps operations and maintenance, science and technology and acquisition policy.
US Navy career
Stackley began his career as a Navy surface warfare officer, serving in engineering and combat systems assignments aboard USS John Young (DD 973). Upon completing his warfare qualifications, he was designated as an engineering duty officer and served in a series of industrial, fleet, program office and headquarters assignments in ship design and construction, maintenance, logistics and acquisition policy.
From 2001 to 2005, Stackley served as the Navy’s LPD 17 program manager, with responsibility for all aspects of procurement for this major ship program. Having served earlier in his career as production officer for the USS Arleigh Burke (DDG 51) and project Naval architect overseeing structural design for the Canadian Patrol Frigate, HMCS Halifax (FFH 330), he had the unique experience of having performed a principal role in the design, construction, test and delivery of three first-of-class warships.
Stackley was commissioned and graduated with distinction from the United States Naval Academy in 1979, with a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering. He holds the degrees of Ocean Engineer and Master of Science, Mechanical Engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Stackley earned certification as professional engineer, Commonwealth of Virginia, in 1994.
Contributions as ASN
On May 6, 2009, Stackley said at a Sea-Air-Space Exposition luncheon that the Navy would stress continuity and affordability in acquisition.
On May 15, 2009, Stackley defended the progress on the Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System and supported longer terms for program managers.
Personal life
Stackley is the husband of Teresa Stackley and father of four children; three daughters (Erin, Tess, and Maura Stackley), and a son (Scott Stackley).