Guardians of Innovation: Exploring the Intersection of Military Defense and Tech | The Pair Program Ep42

In this captivating episode, we delve into the dynamic world of military defense and its profound impact on technological innovation. Join our guests, Sean Leahy and Les Craig, as they share their firsthand experiences and insights gained from their distinguished careers in the defense tech space.

Les, a Partner at Next Frontier Capital and a former Infantry Officer and Platoon Leader, brings a unique perspective shaped by his military service and subsequent roles in intelligence and cybersecurity startups. Sean, a seasoned defense and intelligence technologist, offers invaluable expertise cultivated through his diverse roles supporting defense agencies and startups alike.

Together, they explore the evolving landscape of defense technology, discussing emerging trends, the surge in the defense tech industry, and the pivotal role of the military in driving innovation.

About Les Craig

Les has been a Partner at Next Frontier Capital since 2017, where he has led 12 direct investments and serves on the boards of 7 portfolio companies. He is a 2003 graduate of the United State Military Academy at West Point, and served as an Infantry Officer and Platoon Leader in the 173rd Airborne Brigade and 1st Ranger Battalion, as well as an Aide on General Stan McChrystal's staff at Joint Special Operations Command. Post military commitment, Les served as a Technical Operations Officer at the Central Intelligence Agency. He co-founded two start-ups: The Twenty, a data science services company and RedOwl Analytics, a venture backed cyber security software company that was acquired by Forcepoint in August of 2017.

About Sean Leahy

Sean is a career defense and intelligence technologist, currently working as an independent advisor to defense technology startups and investors. He began his career supporting DARPA, JIEDDO, the U.S. Army, and multiple teams within the Intelligence Community. He was Director of Technical Services at Sayari Labs, a dual use technology company. In 2023, he served as a Defense and Technology Fellow in the Office of Senator Steve Daines of Montana. He is a graduate of Columbia University.

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