Beyond the Badge with Armin J.

This feature is part of Beyond the Badge, a series that brings you closer to the people powering Davidson’s future. These aren’t just job titles—they’re well-rounded people with stories, ambitions, and perspectives that enrich our culture and sharpen our collective edge. 

Recently, Director of Marketing and Communications Rikki Klaus spoke to one of our newest hires, Armin Jahandarfard, about what makes him tick.

Most mornings as early as 5:00, Saeed Adibi would unlock the door to his Mediterranean restaurant in Harvest, Alabama, brew Greek coffee and start cooking falafel and hummus.

“He is one of the hardest workers I’ve ever known,” said Armin.

As many as 18 hours later, Saeed would call it a night and head home to his sleeping family, whose names inspired the restaurant’s name: 5A’s. There was Armin, his younger brothers Arman and Arian, as well as his father Adibi, and his mother Akram.

Armin, who now works as a product owner at Davidson Technologies, said opening the restaurant in 2010 was his parents’ dream come true. It quickly became a family affair, as the adults roped in the kids.

Saeed Adibi with his grandchildren

“I brought them to the workplace to make sure that they see how I work,” Saeed said. “Giving someone support is different than doing something for them. If you give them support and push them, they learn and just keep going and can stand on their feet.”

Armin helped at the restaurant for about a year, until he left for Harding University in Arkansas. While he was studying Business Administration in 2014, the crew of five became four. Armin’s mother passed on.

“The worst experience ever,” said Saeed. In the days before her death, he had promised his business and life partner one thing: “that I will do everything for the kids, and that was my one and only intention.”

Despite the pain and grief, Armin said his dad did just that –– pouring strength into his sons.

“After my mother passed, he cared for my brothers and me with incredible love and dedication,” said Armin. “What I admire most is how he continues to care for our family with the same devotion, especially showing that same heart for my daughter.”

Armin’s little girl is one-and-a-half. He describes her as smart and sassy.

“Being a parent has been the most rewarding experience,” said Armin. “My wife and daughter inspire me. They remind me of the importance of hard work and making a meaningful impact, which drives me to do my best every day.”

At Davidson, Armin guides product development, tending to both business and customers’ needs.

He brings a wide range of work experience with him. From hospitality to hospital administration. From operating a photography business to being a business manager in a laboratory.

“I think the highlight of my career so far has been working to support our nation’s nuclear security at Y-12. It was an incredible opportunity to work somewhere that dramatically changed the course of human history,” Armin recounted.

Before beginning his new job in July, Armin’s community filled him in on the advanced technology firm.

“I have a lot of family and friends who work in the defense industry here in Huntsville, and every single one of them has spoken highly of Davidson,” he said. “They consistently talk about the positive work environment, the collaborative culture, and the way the company truly invests in helping people grow.”

Armin shared that he wants “more than just a job.” “I want to build a long-term career where I can continually develop my skills, take on new challenges, and contribute to meaningful work.” His drive at Davidson and happiness at home make Saeed proud.

“Very. I’m proud of all of them,” he said. “As I have done my best, I see they are doing their best for their family.”