Chris Esquivel is a seasoned defense and intelligence professional, a cybersecurity and AI strategist, and a data analytics expert with over 17 years of experience in the U.S. Army, Special Operations, and the Department of Defense. As a Lieutenant Colonel in the U.S. Army Reserve, Chris has supported multiple high-impact operations, including Operation Iraqi Freedom, Operation New Dawn, and Operation Enduring Freedom-South in Colombia. His expertise spans cyber threat intelligence, data governance, strategic analysis, and national security policy implementation.
Currently, Chris serves as the Cyber Data Integration Lead and Intelligence & Defense Liaison at The George Washington University, where he is at the forefront of AI-driven data analytics, cyber defense strategy, and research integration for national security applications. He also holds the role of SOCOM Innovation Cell Advisor at U.S. Army Special Operations Command, where he provides strategic guidance on advanced technologies and intelligence operations. His past roles include serving as the Chief of Data Analytics at the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence & Security, where he led enterprise-wide data governance, analytics, and performance oversight.
Chris’s expertise is deeply rooted in AI and cybersecurity integration to optimize defense intelligence and strategic operations. He has designed and implemented data-driven frameworks to enhance threat detection, situational awareness, and decision-making processes at the highest levels of government. His ability to leverage big data analytics, AI and machine learning models, and cyber intelligence has positioned him as a thought leader in national security, intelligence modernization, and digital transformation strategies.
A dedicated leader and mentor, Chris has served on the board of Sterling Soccer Club in Virginia and continues to mentor young athletes as a head coach for soccer, baseball, and basketball programs. His commitment to developing future leaders extends beyond the military and intelligence sectors, emphasizing the importance of teamwork, discipline, and resilience. Additionally, Chris has gained invaluable experience living overseas as a Department of State dependent in Havana, Cuba; Kinshasa, Zaire; Managua, Nicaragua; Port au Prince, Trinidad & Tobago; and Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. He also serves as a close advisor for Chasing Zero, a non-profit organization dedicated to addressing veteran and first responder suicide. His volunteer work includes serving with the Peace Corps in Santiago, Dominican Republic, focusing on disaster relief and humanitarian efforts.
Chris holds a master’s degree in Homeland Security from George Washington University and a bachelor’s degree in Political Science from the University of Dayton. His education, combined with real-world operational experience, gives him a unique perspective on policy development, risk assessment, and strategic international relations. He is proficient in Spanish and conversational in Arabic, further enhancing his ability to work across diverse geopolitical landscapes.
Throughout his career, Chris has been a trusted advisor in cybersecurity, AI, and intelligence strategy. His past experience includes Vice President of Data Analytics at RiVidium, Defense Intelligence Enterprise Assessment Analyst at the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence & Security, and Defense Intelligence Analysis & Partner Engagement SME at EverWatch. His work in enterprise assessment, military defense consulting, and wargaming has shaped national security policies and influenced key decision-making processes within the U.S. government.
As a public speaker and thought leader, Chris has presented at industry events, including the US Forces of Business Awards and the Big Data for Intelligence Summit. His ability to translate complex data analytics into actionable intelligence has made him a sought-after expert in AI-driven defense intelligence and cybersecurity resilience. He remains dedicated to bridging the gap between technology and strategy to enhance national security operations.
Chris is currently seeking board opportunities where he can leverage his expertise to drive data-centric innovation, enhance cybersecurity frameworks, and strengthen organizational resilience. His deep understanding of AI-driven intelligence operations, digital transformation, and national defense policies makes him a valuable asset to organizations looking to navigate the evolving security landscape.
With a passion for leading cross-functional teams and fostering strategic collaboration, Chris believes in empowering organizations through data-driven decision-making, AI integration, and innovative security strategies. His leadership style emphasizes integrity, adaptability, and a results-oriented mindset, ensuring mission success in both military and corporate environments.
In every role, Chris has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to excellence, innovation, and national security advancement. Whether in the battlefield, the boardroom, or the research lab, he remains focused on leveraging emerging technologies, optimizing intelligence operations, and shaping the future of cybersecurity and AI-driven defense analytics.
Character:
Chris Esquivel is a principled leader who upholds integrity, resilience, and ethical decision-making in every aspect of his work. His dedication to mission success, whether in national security, cybersecurity, or leadership roles, reflects his commitment to excellence and responsibility.
Knowledge:
With deep expertise in AI, cybersecurity, data science, and intelligence strategy, Chris brings cutting-edge insights into national security and defense modernization. His ability to analyze complex data and apply emerging technologies allows him to drive informed decision-making at the highest levels.
Strategic:
Chris excels in developing and executing high-impact security frameworks that ensure organizations remain ahead in an evolving threat landscape. His forward-thinking approach enables him to integrate AI, cybersecurity, and data analytics to enhance intelligence operations and optimize defense strategies.
Communication:
A skilled speaker and mentor, Chris effectively translates complex intelligence and data concepts into clear, actionable strategies. His ability to engage with diverse audiences, from government officials to corporate leaders, ensures alignment between data-driven insights and strategic decision-making.
