Melissa Conley, as Executive Director of Capability Management and Innovation (CMI) at the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), is being recognized for driving significant advancements in airport security and passenger experience through innovative biometric solutions. Her leadership has been instrumental in the development and deployment of TSA's 2nd generation Credential Authentication Technology (CAT) machine, which enhances checkpoint security with 1:1 facial matching. This upgrade allows TSA to verify passengers by comparing their live image with the image on their credential, reducing contact points and streamlining the travel experience. The upgraded machines are currently in over 50 airports and will expand to more than 400 airports in the coming years.

 

Melissa also spearheaded the integration of digital identities and mobile driver’s licenses (mDLs) into TSA operations, making TSA the first U.S. agency to implement digital identity capabilities. This initiative allows passengers in several states to use digital IDs at select checkpoints, further improving identity verification and passenger convenience.

 

Additionally, Melissa led the implementation of 1:n facial identification technology, which allows travelers to verify their identity without scanning boarding passes or credentials. This system, currently in six major airports and expanding to ten by the end of 2024, provides a seamless experience from curb to gate.

 

Melissa’s innovations in biometrics have transformed TSA's security measures and passenger processing, impacting up to 3 million travelers daily. Her work has minimized wait times, improved the travel experience, and eliminated the need for physical identification documents. Her leadership in adopting and implementing biometric technologies reflects a proactive approach to enhancing aviation security and passenger convenience.