Darren Lowe (Fed)

Darren Lowe is a highly skilled Information Technology Security Officer at the Baldrige Performance Excellence Program (BPEP), where he has been a vital part of the team since 2015. In his role, Darren expertly manages risk and oversees the comprehensive BPEP system security plan. His responsibilities include the meticulous preparation and approval of FISMA Certification and Accreditation (C&A) documentation, reviewing and approving procedures, and managing IT and software asset inventories, all while ensuring robust system accountability. With a Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) certification obtained in 2017, Darren has effectively led IT support operations, which encompass advanced Microsoft Teams configurations, SharePoint Online development and integration, as well as TCP/IP, DHCP, and IP address management. He has successfully implemented Public Key Infrastructure (PKI), streamlined Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) solutions, facilitated remote meeting software, and provided top-tier support for Windows and Office software, in addition to overseeing Active Directory administration.

Within the Baldrige Program, Darren manages all IT assets in the Department of Commerce’s Personal Property Management System (Sunflower) and provides exceptional support in various aspects of the Baldrige Award process. He also acts as a key technical consultant, providing valuable support to both BPEP staff and external volunteers.

Prior to his impactful role at BPEP, Darren honed his expertise in Engineering Laboratory Systems Administration (ELSA) at the Engineering Laboratory (EL) of NIST, after joining the Building and Fire Research Laboratory (BFRL) in January 1989. Throughout his career at BFRL, he has played a leading role in numerous prestigious projects, including ASTM Surface Flammability test methods, large-scale smoke movement and control experiments, mass fire studies in Ontario, HAZARD I fire model validation studies, and significant Water Mist Fire Suppression initiatives, among others. His contributions have included designing and installing advanced instrumentation packages, formulating robust test protocols, creating effective data acquisition methods, and analyzing complex test data with precision. Notably, Darren was instrumental in the NIST investigation of the World Trade Center collapse after the 9/11 attacks, where he helped develop the video and photo information collection system and played a critical role in establishing the timeline of events for that fateful day.

Since 1995, Darren has channeled his expertise into IT systems support, website development and maintenance, network administration, and IT security. His commitment to professional development is evident through the advanced training he has pursued in website development, programming, and systems administration.

In recognition of his outstanding contributions, Darren received the "Making a Measurable Difference at NIST" award in 2001 for his work with the Small Business Innovation Research Program. He notably developed a web-based application that significantly improved communication and knowledge management between SBIR and its customers. Additionally, Darren has represented the BFRL as a leading voice on the NIST Information Technology Planning Board, the IT Security Working Group, and among NIST Information Coordinators.

Bronze Medal Organization Award, Baldrige Performance Excellence Program, 2024

Making a Measurable Difference at NIST Award, 2001