After more than four decades of leadership across military operations, defense innovation, academia, and technology integration, I’m proud to continue supporting organizations focused on advancing mission success and connecting innovative technologies to the warfighter. My experiences as a Green Beret, strategic military advisor, educator, and technology executive have reinforced the importance of leadership, innovation, and collaboration in solving today’s complex security challenges. Here is my biography.

Chris Athearn is a seasoned acquisition advisor and strategic leader with a proven history of driving impactful business solutions in defense applications and national security strategy. Renowned for his ability to foster collaboration and guide organizations toward operational excellence, he has successfully navigated complex government-industry landscapes to enhance acquisition frameworks and technological advancements. As the Founder and President of Alfen Consulting LLC and a former Senior Military Acquisition Advisor to the Air Force, he has played a pivotal role in shaping multi-billion-dollar weapons portfolios, optimizing supply chain strategies, and influencing high-level defense investment decisions. With a deep understanding of strategic planning, stakeholder engagement, and program execution, Athearn continues to be a trusted force in advancing defense capabilities and organizational growth.