Turning innovation into operational capability is where most GovCon efforts stall. In this episode of GovCon Unscripted, Chelsea Roberts sits down with Sumner Lee, CEO of Fuse Integration, to unpack what it actually takes to move from early-stage R&D to programs of record.

Sumner shares how Fuse has navigated the SBIR and STTR ecosystem, progressed through multiple phase three transitions, and avoided the “valley of death” that traps so many small businesses. He explains why constant warfighter engagement, operational testing, and embedding veterans inside program teams create what he calls “unfair advantages.”

The conversation also explores why user experience matters in defense networking, how legacy platforms shape design constraints, and what small companies must do to survive real-world demonstrations, exercises, and mission environments.

Timestamps

• 07:01 – Fuse Integration’s mission and network focus
• 10:25 – Using SBIR to transition real capability
• 21:11 – Why warfighter access determines success
• 31:20 – Operational execution during exercises
• 35:02 – Leadership, culture, and resilience

Resources

• Sumner Lee's LinkedIn page
• Fuse Integration's LinkedIn
• Fuse integration's Instagram Link
• Fuse Integration's Facebook Link
• Chelsea Roberts' LinkedIn page

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