EI Conference 2025 Tech Scouts
Tim is a key asset to USSTRATCOM for discovering and delivering superior warfighting capabilities by providing comprehensive scientific and technical research and analysis, helping researchers, engineers, scientists, warfighters, and program managers solve the most challenging technical problems. The Defense Technology Information Center, DoD IACs provide technology discovery capabilities and an efficient mechanism to acquire affordable, improved defense capabilities that mitigate adversarial threats. The DoD IACs serve the needs of the Warfighter by bringing the “think tank” to the Battlespace and build communities of interest in areas of critical importance to the DoD, including defensive systems, cyber operations, weapon systems, homeland defense and resilient energy. He also has responsibilities supporting NORD-NORTHCOM and SPACECOM. Prior to his current position, Mr. Fowler served 25 years in the US Navy both active and reserve in a variety of tactical, staff and command positions in both the continental U.S. and overseas. Tours included starting out his career in Surface Warfare, with follow on tours in Tactical communications, Combat Engineer's, and Technology programs at the Office of Naval Research. While in ONR he worked in ONR Global "TechSolutions" and Code O3T Transitions. He retired in 2011 as a Commander at United States Strategic Command J81. His career spans from the Cold War to Deploying to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Mr. Fowler also has a strong and diverse business background to include working in the Insurance, Energy, and Defense sectors. While in the Defense sector he has been a Project Manager for SBIR/STTR's, USSTRATCOM OSD (IPA) representative working and managing Emerging Technology programs such as the Joint Capabilities Demonstration Program. (JCTD) He was assigned to the White House Covid-19 Task Force during the first phases of the crisis to assist in responding to worldwide pandemic technology needs.
Joseph Haack is the Information Analysis Centers (IAC-FA) Field Science and Technology Advisor to USSOCCOM. n this position, he is a key asset to USSOCOM for discovering and delivering superior warfighting capabilities by providing comprehensive scientific/ technical research and analysis by helping researchers, engineers, scientists, warfighters and program managers solve the most challenging technical problems. The Defense Information Technology Center, DoD IACs provide technology discovery capabilities and an efficient mechanism to acquire affordable, improved defense capabilities that mitigate adversarial threats. The DoD IACs serve the Warfighter by bringing the “think tank” to the Battlespace, and build communities of interest in areas of critical importance to the DoD, including defensive systems, cyber operations, weapon systems, homeland defense and resilient energy. He also directly supports all of the Theater Special Operations Commands (TSOC's) worldwide and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Mr. Joseph L. Haack Information Analysis Centers (IAC) Field Science and Technology Advisor U.S. Special Operations Command, USSOCOM MacDill AFB, FL Prior to his current position Mr. Haack served in the U.S. Army as a Lieutenant Colonel, retiring after serving 25 years. His duties as an Infantry, Armor and SOF-Civil Affairs Officer included Command and Staff positions advising commanders and leading Soldiers during peacetime and in combat. He capped his career as the Civil Military Operations Officer for US CENTRAL COMMAND, CCJ5 Plans Directorate, where he gained a detailed understanding of Joint Planning and Integrations for U.S. and Coalition Forces for conventional and special operations. He earned his BS from Western Michigan University, is a graduate of the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College and numerous Army schools for conventional and special operations. His awards include the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Joint Service and Army Commendation/Achievement Medals, Humanitarian Service Medal, UN Mission Medal (MINURSO), NATO Service Medal, Global War on Terror Expeditionary & Service Medals, the National Defense Service Medal and others. He was awarded the Combat Action Badge, the Master Parachutist Badge (88 jumps), the Air Assault Badge and the German Parachutist Badge. Mr. Haack has a love for history, earning the George S. Patton award for Military History, and the Order of St. George (Bronze) from the U.S. Army Armor Association. He has traveled or been assigned to 33 countries worldwide in Europe, Africa and the Middle East, to include training, combat (Iraq) and humanitarian operations/ disaster response (HADR) & Peacekeeping (PKO) deployments to Bosnia, Rwanda, Morocco, Western Sahara, Haiti, and Jordan. This diversity of cultural training, planning, deployments and mission support in combat and HADR/PKO missions gives him unique insight for theater requirements and interoperability between services, government agencies and with coalition/partner nations in peacetime and conflict.
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MJ leads with mutual respect for all beings. MJ is currently assigned to USINDOPACOM J8 as a Field S&T Adviser for the DoD Information Analysis Centers with oversight of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering. Building lasting communities of interest with more than 7,000 scientists and engineers in 49 states, connecting the DoD, DoE, industry, and academia. Military and DoD Civilian experience includes: -Science Advisor for Special Operations Command Pacific, advising SOCPAC's senior leaders about relevance of emerging technology. -Ops Support Commander for PACAF Support Forces Antarctica, supporting LC130 and C-17 operations from New Zealand to Antarctica. -Senior Ops Support Officer for USUSINDOPACOM J3, planning and executing multinational joint training events to test national security strategies and strengthen ties with partner nations. Affected training for 300,000+ personnel annually. -Pol/Mil Strategist for USINDOPACOM J5, executing National Security Strategy and coordinating international engagements with foreign governments, NGOs, militaries, and universities. -Operational Support Commander for PACAF’s OPRATION DEEP FREEZE for LC130 and C17 ops from New Zealand to Antarctica in support of the National Science Foundation -Cyber Officer, engineering and deploying communication systems worldwide. -Chief of Operational Plans for Air Force Research Lab HQ, leading tech transfer from AFRL’s 7 labs to the warfighter via deployments, field exercises, demonstrations, tests, war games, and programs of record. -Troop Commander, leading special teams on tactical deployments to the Middle East and Europe. -Civil Support Team Ops Officer, 1st responder for CBRN emergencies. -Inspector General, enforcing highest standards for USAF and ANG units. MJ lives on her regenerative farm on an island in the Salish Sea. There she encourages biodiversity while stewarding meadows and old growth forest. Ensuring adequate nutrition and shelter to sustain humans, domesticated animal partners, and wild co-inhabitants (plant, fungi, insect, elements, and animals) with surplus to share with neighbors. Her biggest joy is her 3 children and their chosen life partners.
Mr. David Rios has over 34 years serving his country as Active Duty military and later a DoD contractor; currently he serves as the Information Analysis Centers (IAC) Field Advisor for United States Central Command, on the Command Science Advisor’s Staff. He is responsible for discovery of technologies, research, analysis, and mentoring of new & emerging technologies which have the potential to provide material solutions to Headquarters and Component validated needs to prepare the command for current and future operational requirements that support the National Military Strategy and the USCENTCOM Combatant Commander’s Strategy. Mr. Rios served 24 years as an Officer in the United States Navy as a Helicopter Naval Aviator, stationed on multiple aircraft carriers in the fleet; performing and decorated for several at-sea rescues during his career. His last 5 years on Active Duty were served at United States Central Command (USCENTCOM) overseeing combat operations in numerous contingency operations to include Operation IRAQI FREEDOM, ENDURING FREEDOM, and NEW DAWN. He attended The Ohio State University graduating with a Bachelor of Engineering Degree in Aviation Human Factors followed by a Master’s Degree in Joint Military Operations as a graduate of the Army Command and General Staff College. He currently lives in San Antonio, FL and his hobbies include breaking/fixing classic cars, restoring antique tube and transistor stereo equipment, and home-brewing beer.
Andy Myers is the Technology Transfer Lead at the Kansas City National Security Campus (KCNSC) operated by Honeywell. In this role, Myers supports scientists and engineers through the invention disclosure and patenting process, works to commercialize or transfer appropriate technologies outside the Department of Energy, and coordinates efforts between the federal space and industrial/academic partners. He has experience in academic research administration and was a PI at a small business that participated in the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) federal program. KCNSC is one of eight sites that comprise the National Nuclear Security Agency. Our primary focus is manufacturing, and we develop advanced solutions for complex national security issues – from prototype simulations to production to quality testing. Along with safeguarding the country’s nuclear weapons, the Honeywell team is charged with leading other missions for the Department of Energy in areas of global security and supply chain management.
Currently serving US Central Command (USCENTCOM) through outreach support to small business and the discovery of innovative technology to meet both identified and potential future technical gaps. Before CENTCOM, Mark served as the Chief Technology Officer for Special Operations Command Central (SOCCENT) beginning in 2019 with a focus on supporting sensitive activities for the deployed SOF elements in the AOR. This was made possible due to Marks extensive knowledge of clandestine technologies as he directed the Technical Operations Division of SOCCENT for over ten years with one of those years spent in Industry working for Draper Laboratories in Cambridge, Mass. Prior to his tenure at SOCCENT, Mark worked at USSOCOM within the Program Executive Office, Special Reconnaissance where his priority focus was the Hostile Forces Tagging Tracking and Locating Program with sixty-four deployed Field Service Representatives supporting both OIR and OEF. Mark is a retired US Army Special Forces NCO from 5th Special Forces Group with multiple rotations to both Afghanistan and Iraq prior to his retirement. He is married to his wife Diane of 34 years with two daughters and is a Tampa native with many family members in and around the area.
Chris Groves connects innovative startups with National Security partners to enhance mission capabilities for front line operators. His prior role with Oracle Government Defense and Intelligence fueled Chris’s passion for working with startups and expanded his knowledge of tech available to support National Security innovation. He built close partnerships with a portfolio of startups and applied Oracle’s cloud infrastructure and tactical edge hardware to develop pathways for National Security customers to onboard innovative, mission-relevant solutions. Chris established a strong foundation in National Security during a 25-year career as an Operations Officer for the CIA. In a series of field command roles, he empowered teams to achieve significant results for the CIA's core mission objectives. He served in multiple war zones, applied cyber capabilities to intel operations, and enhanced relations, joint operations and/or training programs with foreign partners, US Military, and with US Intel and Law Enforcement Agencies. Delivering effective leadership and providing a great work environment are important to Chris. He works hard to inspire teams to deliver their full potential, champions innovation and creativity to produce enhanced impact, and fosters a positive and inclusive team environment that keeps employees motivated, productive, and focused on the mission. Chris holds an MBA from Thunderbird International Business School and enjoys developing new skills through executive education programs. Michael's career spans roles such as CEO of Lupton Consulting, providing invaluable business development services for DoD/IC engagements. As Programmatic SETA Support for DARPA and NGA, he facilitated advanced research proposals and promoted collaboration across defense and intelligence communities. His tenure as a Global Technology Scout for the Office of the Secretary of Defense showcased his prowess in identifying emerging disruptive technologies and fostering partnerships. Michael's proactive approach, evident in roles like Intelligence Analyst for the DoD, consistently delivers exceptional results, earning him accolades such as the Fiscal Year 2015 Year End Performance Appraisal and the Spring 2015 Exceptional Performance Award. With a solid foundation in project management, technical acumen, and a strategic mindset, Michael Lupton continues to drive innovation and excellence in the realm of technology and national security.
Chris Pavel is the Deputy Director of the Pacific Northwest Mission Acceleration Center (PNW MAC), a non-profit dedicated to bridging the gap between cutting-edge industry solutions and military problem sets across a five-state region. With over 23 years of experience in the U.S. Air Force and technology sector, Chris has played a pivotal role in accelerating defense innovation, guiding startups through the complexities of working with the DoD, and establishing a key hub for national security-focused tech collaboration. Prior to PNW MAC, Chris served as the State Director of Innovation for the Washington Air National Guard, where he built a $17M innovation portfolio, launching 28 mission-critical projects. His career spans C-suite roles in biotech/MedTech, advisory positions for technology startups, and leadership in cyber defense, antiterrorism, and air sovereignty operations under NORAD. A disruptor and strategic connector, Chris specializes in helping founders transition emerging technologies into the military ecosystem, leveraging his deep expertise in defense contracting, agile communications, AI/ML applications, and tactical combat innovations. He holds a B.S. in Information Technology (with honors) and certifications from MIT, the University of Michigan, and North Carolina State. Chris is passionate about empowering innovators to break through bureaucratic barriers and driving real-world impact through defense-focused technology. He currently resides in the Seattle Metropolitan Area, working at the intersection of national security and cutting-edge innovation.
Ms. Abby Boggs is an Intellectual Property Specialist in the Office of the Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Army (Strategy & Acquisition Reform). She is a member of the Intellectual Property Cell of Experts, which provides advice, assistance, and resources to the acquisition workforce on IP matters, and serves as a conduit for industry to address IP-related issues. Ms. Boggs previously served as the Deputy of Operations as a detailee to the Department of the Navy’s Technology Transfer Program at the Office of Naval Research in Arlington VA. Her responsibilities included managing day-to-day operations such as finance, requirements, and strategic initiatives. Ms. Boggs served as a Technology Transfer Strategist at the Air Education and Training Command at Randolph AFB in San Antonio, Texas from November 2021 to March 2023. In this role she provided AETC leadership advice and guidance on activities related to research and development, intellectual property, and technology transfer/transition. From February 2011 to October 2021, Ms. Boggs served as an Intellectual Property Manager and Technology Transfer Specialist at the Air Force Research Lab at Wright Patterson Air Force Base in Dayton, Ohio. In this role, she was the Air Force’s lead Office of Research and Technology Applications, responsible for all aspects of technology transfer management from negotiating agreements to technology scouting.
Jeffrey Donenfeld currently serves as the Regional Engagement Principal for Colorado with the Defense Innovation Unit’s (DIU) Commercial Operations team. Jeffrey builds the future through technology portfolio and partnership growth in Aerospace, Space, Security, and Defense sectors. His multidisciplinary vision, entrepreneurial insight, and industry expertise leads organizations through early stage technology and team strategy to growth and exit stage venture investment and support. Jeffrey is a lifelong futurist, strategist, and thought leader who enjoys advancing the leading edge. Jeffrey is a published author, industry voice, mentor, educator, and public speaker on future technologies, entrepreneurship strategies, scientific exploration in Antarctica, aviation, and photography. He is a frequent panel reviewer and technology assessor for commercialization and investment merit, mentor for entrepreneurs, and has worked extensively with corporate, startup, government, and international groups. He holds an Executive Masters of Business Administration from University of Denver Daniels College of Business, a Bachelor’s Degree from University of Colorado at Boulder, and an FAA Private Pilot License (ASEL).
Rob brings nearly 15 years of experience in aerospace and commercial aviation, including leadership roles in major projects. As Managing Director of the Defense Innovation OnRamp Hub: Kansas program, he oversees operations and strategic initiatives.
Keegan Evans serves as the Regional Engagement Principal for Kansas with the Defense Innovation Unit’s (DIU) Commercial Operations team, a DIU component dedicated to fostering collaboration and innovation among DoD mission partners, academia, industry, startups, investors, and other national security stakeholders to solve some of the most complex challenges facing the nation. Prior to his current role, Keegan served as Strategic Advisor and Special Assistant to the Missouri Military Advocate, the Missouri Governor’s military affairs representative, where he advised on policy, operations, and strategic communications. In addition, Keegan engaged with state and federal policymakers, implemented inter-agency programs and regional initiatives, and served as principal staff to the Missouri Military Preparedness and Enhancement Commission. Keegan started his career in government as an analyst at the Missouri State Highway Patrol, General Headquarters. He then joined the staff of a Missouri State Senator as Legislative Director, where he staffed multiple legislative committees including Senate Appropriations. Following the Missouri Senate, Keegan joined the National Security Innovation Network (NSIN) as a fellow and subsequent staff assistant to the Chief of Staff in Arlington, VA. Upon returning to Missouri, Keegan served as a trade manager with the Missouri Office of International Trade and Investment, advising Missouri-based companies on expansion into Europe and Middle Eastern markets. He managed client projects across 6 international offices generating $30 million in combined export sales. As a trade manager, Keegan supported 4 Governor-led trade missions and led the execution of a healthcare client delegation to Dubai, UAE that increased client sales by over $10 million. Keegan received a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of Missouri –Columbia. He is an active member on the Board of Directors for the AFCEA International Greater Kansas City Chapter and the National Defense Industrial Association (NDIA) Great Rivers Chapter. Keegan resides in Kansas City with his fiancé and two dogs.
Ted McAleer has been working with Utah’s Startup community since 1999 and supports commercialization of innovation as the COO of VBGS and co-Founder and Board Chairman of Park City Angels. He recently accepted the role as the Regional Engagement Principal for Utah at the Defense Innovation Unit, a DoD program. Ted has held operational and leadership roles at a variety of startup companies including Braveheart Wireless, NexGen Materials and as the first Managing Director of PandoLabs, a business incubator and accelerator based in Park City, Utah. Ted’s innovation ecosystem work was kicked off as the 1st Executive Director of USTAR (Utah Science Technology and Research Initiative), the State of Utah’s signature technology-based economic development initiative. Prior to USTAR, Ted spent 5 years in a variety of leadership roles with Campus Pipeline, a Utah-based venture-backed EdTech startup that raised $80+ million during the “dot com” era.