I’m proud to share a comprehensive look into my professional journey across defense strategy, international diplomacy, and global security cooperation. Over the past 38 years, I’ve had the honor of serving in roles that shaped U.S. policy and strengthened international partnerships. Here is my biography.

Eric Rigby is a seasoned global leader in diplomatic technology operations, having spent over three decades with the U.S. Department of State ensuring secure, efficient information systems at American embassies and consulates worldwide. Known for his integrity, strategic foresight, and ability to lead in high-pressure environments, Eric supported U.S. foreign policy across diverse geopolitical landscapes including conflict zones and major international hubs. His extensive expertise in information resource management, combined with his cultural fluency and policy insight, made him an invaluable asset to American diplomacy. Now retired, Eric continues to be recognized for the vital role he played in modernizing and safeguarding the communication infrastructure that underpins U.S. engagement on the global stage.

Jim Steele is a distinguished leader whose career spans the highest levels of military service, international security, and global business. With expertise forged in combat zones like Vietnam, Iraq, and Latin America, and sharpened in executive roles developing billion-dollar energy projects, Jim embodies a rare combination of courage, strategic insight, and operational excellence. As founder of JS Steele Enterprises and a certified personal trainer, he continues to impact lives through security leadership and personal development. A decorated veteran, acclaimed author, and sought-after lecturer, Jim’s lifelong dedication to service, resilience, and innovation defines his extraordinary journey across the world’s most complex and demanding environments.

Youssof Ghafoorzai is a veteran Afghan diplomat and strategic advisor with over 20 years of experience leading international negotiations, shaping foreign policy, and building global partnerships to promote peace, security, and development. He has served in senior diplomatic roles across the United Nations, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and most recently as Ambassador to Norway, where he championed human rights and sustained international engagement on Afghanistan amid political upheaval. Renowned for his ability to bridge geopolitical divides and mobilize consensus, Ghafoorzai has played a critical role in the adoption of key UN resolutions, the implementation of counter-terrorism strategies, and the advancement of multilateral cooperation through diplomacy rooted in integrity, resilience, and deep strategic insight.

Brett M. Holmgren is a seasoned national security and intelligence leader with over two decades of experience spanning the highest levels of government and the private sector. Most recently, he served as Acting Director of the National Counterterrorism Center (NCTC), where he led the U.S. government’s premier counterterrorism agency and advised the President on national security threats. Previously, as Assistant Secretary for the Bureau of Intelligence and Research (INR) at the U.S. Department of State, he spearheaded major digital transformations and governance reforms. Holmgren has also held key intelligence roles at the White House, CIA, and Defense Intelligence Agency, shaping U.S. counterterrorism and cybersecurity strategies. His expertise in risk management extends to the private sector, where he served as Vice President and Acting Chief Technology Risk Officer at Capital One. A recipient of numerous distinguished service awards, Holmgren continues to be a leading voice in intelligence modernization, cybersecurity, and national security strategy.