This week marked the second-to-last on-campus session for the #CASJS cohort, and it was packed with invaluable insights, expert briefings, and meaningful connections!
Monday kicked off with a briefing from Robert Atkins, whose 20+ years in Air Force Space Command made him the perfect guide for Space Force 101. He broke down the organizational structure of Space Command, highlighting key players who could be valuable contacts for our cohort. His advice? Who to talk to, why they matter, and when to reach out.
When asked about his time with the cohort, Robert shared, “Helping new companies navigate the complexities of working with the DoD is not just a privilege—it’s a responsibility. In educating and guiding these innovators, we shape the future of defense, ensuring that tomorrow’s solutions are built on a foundation of integrity, excellence, and collaboration.”
On Tuesday, the teams dove back into business development with Mo Kanwischer, of Momentum Business Consulting, focusing on organizational structure and the psychological strengths different personality types bring to a business. As these companies continue to grow, understanding team dynamics becomes crucial for long-term success.
That afternoon, Maj Joshua Haneline from the Space Security and Defense Program (SSDP) generously gave his time to hold 1:1 meetings with each company. While group briefings provide broad insights, these personalized sessions allow companies to ask targeted questions and gain guidance tailored to their specific challenges. These 1:1s have proven to be some of the most beneficial moments of the program.
Wednesday was a powerhouse morning with three impactful briefings.
First up was Marvin Potts from the Air Force Research Lab (AFRL), who gave companies a deeper understanding of the DoD’s electromagnetic spectrum (EMS) needs. From resource maximization to tackling technical challenges, his session was filled with crucial takeaways.
Next, Sean Starnes, Chief Information Security Officer for the AFRL Space Camp, walked the cohort through the complexities of ATOs (Authority to Operate). These authorizations are notoriously difficult for non-government entities to obtain but are essential for businesses looking to work with the DoD. Sean’s step-by-step breakdown—from definitions to common roadblocks and how to navigate the process—was invaluable for companies aiming to secure ATOs in the future.
Rounding out the morning, Theo Edmonds, a culture futurist, led a fascinating discussion on innovation and brain capital. He explored how our brains function in teams, how to measure qualities once thought immeasurable—like curiosity and wonder—and how to focus on solving the right problems. His session was a refreshing reminder for our hard-working entrepreneurs to think outside the box and get plenty of sleep! (Sleep is a game-changer for creativity.)
That evening, the cohort wrapped up the day with dinner at Jack Quinn’s, a beloved local Irish spot. It was a perfect way to mark our final in-person gathering until later this month, just before Demo Day on May 1. It’s bittersweet seeing this program wind down, but we couldn’t be prouder of how far these companies have come. They’re leaving with new knowledge, fresh connections, and exciting opportunities ahead—and we can’t wait to see them back on Campus for Demo Day!
