Dyanna Hess - Miller
Dyanna Hess-Miller is a Senior Database Engineer with 25+ years of experience designing, modernizing, and optimizing secure, scalable data systems across federal and commercial environments, including defense and healthcare. She brings deep expertise in database engineering, data architecture, ETL, and cloud-based data platforms, and she genuinely enjoys the challenge of solving complex problems.
Throughout her career, she has supported mission-critical initiatives for government agencies and major contractors, leading data integration efforts that improve data quality, accessibility, reliability, and security. She is known for translating technical and operational needs into governed, high-performing architectures and production-ready solutions.
Recognized for integrity, transparency, and mentorship, Hess-Miller emphasizes ethical data practices and clear communication in high-stakes environments where accuracy and security are essential.
• Academy Accreditation - Databricks Fundamentals
• Northern Virginia Community College
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my resilience and my faith. Staying determined through challenges has allowed me to keep moving forward, and my faith has given me guidance and perspective along the way. Together, they’ve helped me navigate obstacles and stay focused on achieving my goals.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is simple but powerful: just keep going. I’ve learned to have faith in myself and trust that I can achieve anything I set my mind to, even when the path feels uncertain or challenging.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is simple: we can do anything a man can do. Believe in your abilities, rise up, and don’t let anyone or anything make you think otherwise — your potential is limitless.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field right now is staying relevant in the face of rapidly evolving technologies like AI. At the same time, it’s an incredible opportunity to continuously learn, sharpen my skills, and adapt, which keeps my work exciting and ensures I can deliver value in new and meaningful ways.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that guide me in both my work and personal life are integrity, understanding, and honesty. I strive to act with honesty in all situations, approach others with empathy and understanding, and maintain integrity in every decision I make — because how we show up matters, both personally and professionally.