Chris Heaton is a Senior Director with over 20 years of experience driving innovation and business growth within the aerospace, defense, and technology sectors. He has demonstrated exceptional leadership in multi-million-dollar capture efforts, strategic planning, and team development. His expertise spans technology insertion, R&D program transitions, and business development, particularly within the Department of Defense (DoD) and national security agencies. Known for his ability to manage full capture life-cycle activities and foster relationships with senior executives and technical staff, Chris is a trusted leader in the aerospace and defense industry.

Currently, Chris is the Co-Founder and Vice President of Business Development at StethX Microsystems Inc., a Georgia Tech spinoff startup. Since 2020, he has been responsible for developing product roadmaps for dual-use technologies, ensuring alignment between engineering and executive leadership. His work involves collaborating with cross-functional teams to draft Statements of Work (SOWs), scope proposals, and establish strong partnerships with technology companies. Chris has led numerous contract negotiations with federal agencies, including the Department of Defense (DoD), and has consistently ensured on-time, on-budget execution of projects. Under his leadership, StethX Microsystems has successfully navigated the complexities of government contracting, with a focus on compliance and regulatory requirements such as CDRLs and DFARs.

From 2010 to 2019, Chris served as Co-Founder, Vice President of Operations, Business Development, and FSO at Engeniusmicro, LLC, where he played a key role in transitioning DoD-funded technologies into the commercial market. During his tenure, he achieved a remarkable 500% revenue growth and expanded the team from one to 22 employees. Chris led the company’s digital reinvention initiatives, incorporating IoT and Industry 4.0 technologies to drive operational improvements in the defense and manufacturing sectors. His comprehensive technical and go-to-market strategies helped Engeniusmicro successfully enter new markets, while his leadership in intellectual property management and commercial activities was instrumental in the company’s success.

Before embarking on his entrepreneurial journey, Chris held significant roles at Morgan Research, Stanley Associates Inc., and CGI Federal, from 2002 to 2010. As the Structures and Photonics Department Manager, he managed cutting-edge optical R&D projects, including submarine fiber optic systems and LADARs, working closely with the US Army, Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), and the US Navy. His work in optical R&D and advanced technologies positioned him as a key player in promoting new technologies to both government and commercial clients.

Chris holds a Master of Science in Physics/Optics from The University of Alabama in Huntsville, where he also earned a Bachelor of Science in Physics with a Minor in Mathematics. He is a recognized thought leader in his field, having contributed to numerous publications, including co-authoring a paper on high-frequency MEMS and CMOS inertial measurement systems for the IEEE/ION Position, Location and Navigation Symposium (PLANS) in 2023. Additionally, he holds two patents related to fiber optic sensors and inertial measurement systems, demonstrating his innovative approach to solving complex technical challenges.

With a background in physics, optics, and business, Chris possesses a unique blend of technical expertise and strategic insight. He is highly skilled in project management, contract negotiation, federal budgeting, and government contracting, with a strong understanding of the defense industry’s regulatory environment. Chris is also a dedicated volunteer, coaching youth sports and supporting at-risk schools, further underscoring his commitment to giving back to the community.

A forward-thinking leader and entrepreneur, Chris Heaton continues to shape the future of defense technology and business development, driving growth and innovation in an ever-evolving industry.

• Character: Chris Heaton demonstrates a commitment to integrity and excellence, balancing technical expertise with leadership in both corporate and community settings.
• Knowledge: He has over 20 years of experience in aerospace and defense, with expertise in technology insertion, R&D program transitions, and business development.
• Strategic: Chris has a proven ability to drive business growth by leading multi-million-dollar capture efforts and developing strategic plans for DoD and national security contracts.
• Communication: He excels in fostering relationships with senior executives and technical teams, ensuring clear, effective communication across cross-functional groups.