Month: March 2024

In today’s episode, we had the pleasure of welcoming a returning guest, Wade B. Watts, the University Program Director (UPD) at the University of Nebraska at Omaha for the National Security Innovation Network (NSIN). With over 20 years of experience as an Air Force Officer and subsequent roles at Booz Allen Hamilton, Wade brings a wealth of knowledge to the table.

In this episode, we delved deeper into the workings of NSIN, a Department of Defense program office under the Defense Innovation Unit. NSIN, formerly known as the MD5 National Security Technology Accelerator, has become a powerhouse in fostering innovation and solving challenges within the DOD through collaborations with universities and community startups.

The National Service portfolio offers individuals a chance to contribute to the DOD without formal membership, while the Collaboration portfolio gathers diverse talent for nationwide problem-solving initiatives. The Acceleration portfolio supports those ready to transition from conceptual solutions to forming companies, building prototypes, or entering government contracts.

Mr. Wade discussed how interested parties can bring solutions to NSIN, emphasizing the role of University Program Directors in establishing local ecosystems. He encouraged engagement with NSIN events, checking their website, or reaching out via email to info@nsin.us.

Wade clarified the crucial role of university affiliations as civilian think tanks, handling many DOD problems. Whether you’re in the conceptual stages or already have a validated solution, NSIN offers mentorship, introductions to hubs and accelerators, and tailored programs to support your journey.

This episode provides invaluable insights into NSIN’s operations, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in defense innovation, collaboration, and solving complex problems. Tune in and join the conversation with Govcon Giants!

Website: https://www.nsin.mil/

Contact: https://www.nsin.mil/join-us/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NSINus/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/NSIN_us

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/nsinus/

In today’s episode, we had the privilege of sitting down with the remarkable Vanessa Savas, a retired Air Force Colonel with an impressive 29 years of Department of Defense experience. Her extensive and distinguished career reached its pinnacle as a Congressional and Government Relations expert for the Office of the Secretary of Defense.

Over the course of 12 years, Vanessa played a pivotal role in advising and collaborating with senior officials in the Office of the Secretary of Defense, the U.S. Southern Command, and the U.S. Air Force to secure annual congressional authorizations and appropriations for the Department. Her strategic insights, tenacity, and reputation for integrity have been instrumental in navigating the complex landscape of government relations.

Beyond her illustrious Air Force career, Vanessa has worn many hats, including serving as a Customer Support Senior Engineer for Bombardier Aerospace-Learjet, the Lead Beechjet Instructor Pilot and Flight Examiner at CAE SimuFlite, and even as a Commercial Airline Pilot for various airlines.

In this engaging conversation, Vanessa shared her wealth of knowledge and experiences, shedding light on the intricacies of government relations within the Department of Defense. Tune in to gain valuable insights into her role, the challenges she faced, and the importance of building relationships in the Executive and Legislative branches of government.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of military service, government relations, and the aerospace industry. Let’s welcome our next giant, Vanessa Savas.

Website: https://delphiworldgroup.com/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vanessa-savas/

Email: vanessa@delphiworldgroup.com

Contact: https://delphiworldgroup.com/contact-us