NAVFAC Atlantic Welcomes New Leadership in Command Change Ceremony

Rear Adm. Jorge R. Cuadros has taken command of Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command (NAVFAC), Atlantic, succeeding Rear Adm. Maria L. Aguayo. The change of command ceremony took place in Norfolk, Virginia on August 2.

Cuadros, the 35th commander to oversee NAVFAC Atlantic, will also serve as the U.S. Fleet Forces Civil Engineer and Director, Fleet Installations and Environment (N46), U.S. Fleet Forces Command. Rear Adm. Dean A. VanderLey, Commander of Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command and Chief of Civil Engineers, presided over the ceremony.

VanderLey awarded Aguayo a Legion of Merit for her outstanding service. She was praised for initiating the Shipyard Infrastructure Optimization Program (SIOP), which has secured over $6 billion in construction contracts and nearly $600 million in procurement for the Navy’s four shipyards, two of which are within NAVFAC Atlantic’s area.

Aguayo’s term included directing $600 million dry dock recapitalization at Kings Bay and overseeing the inspection of 1,600 facilities. She also supported the resettlement of Afghan refugees during Operation Allies Welcome. VanderLey emphasized her contributions in aligning the organization more closely with fleet operations, enhancing its effectiveness.

Aguayo retired after 31 years of service with the Civil Engineer Corps. “Lore has a compass,” remarked VanderLey, “and it’s always spot on,” highlighting her integrity and operational acumen.

Aguayo credited the NAVFAC Atlantic and USFF N46 teams for their dedication, urging them to “lean in” and excel in strategic competition. “Leaning in during a race gives that final edge to win,” she stated, drawing from her passion for running.

Cuadros, a native of Colombia, began his Navy career in 1991 as an enlisted sailor, rising through the ranks to become a member of the Civil Engineer Corps in 1996. A month ago, Aguayo promoted him to rear admiral lower half. “Following Lore Aguayo is an honor,” said Cuadros, noting her long-term mentorship.

Cuadros holds a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from Pontificia Universidad Javeriana and a Master of Science in Civil and Environmental Engineering from Stanford University. He is also a graduate of the Harvard University’s Kennedy School Senior Executive Fellows Program and a qualified Seabee Combat Warfare officer. His last position was Chief of Staff at NAVFAC Headquarters.

NAVFAC Atlantic, comprising over 9,100 military service members and civil servants, provides extensive products and services across the eastern seaboard and U.S. overseas commands. In FY23, NAVFAC Atlantic executed $6.9 billion in nearly 14,800 contract actions.