The Acorn Team Is Our Competitive Advantage
Our passion and proven experience in the aerospace, defense, intelligence, and space technology industries is unmatched. With decades of combined experience, our team operates with integrity, determination, deliberation, commitment, and humility.
Investment Partners
![Rick Nagel – Managing Partner | CEO – Acorn Capital Management Rick Nagel - Managing Partner | CEO - Acorn Capital Management](https://acorncapitalmanagement.com/wp-content/uploads/elementor/thumbs/ACORN_Rick-Nagel-qqtazp1z6kxi47kzyd4v69cz4zhutc4798q66kgrkk.jpg)
Rick
Nagel
Managing Partner | CEO
Rick Nagel
Managing Partner | CEO
CAREER
- Acorn Capital Management
- Platinum Equity
- WorldCom
EDUCATION
- The University of Oklahoma, BS Engineering, Phillips 66 Scholar
TENURE
- Rick first served Acorn as an Advisory Board Member and in 2004 joined as a partner, launching the firm’s private equity practice.
KEY BOARDS & ORGANIZATIONS
- University of Oklahoma’s Board of Regents, appointed by Governor Kevin Stitt
- Board of Governors for the Aerospace Industries Association (AIA)
- US Army Association
- US Air Force Association
- National Defense Industrial Association
- State President, Oklahoma Alliance of Boys & Girls Clubs
- National Trustee, Boys & Girls Clubs of America
SUMMARY BIO
Rick leads and is responsible for Acorn’s current geographic footprint, fund operations, fundraising activity, investment deal generation, portfolio integrations, and performance improvement initiatives. Since joining Acorn, the firm has closed more than 30 transactions in areas that include advanced manufacturing, government IT services, defense electronics, engineering services, aircraft financing and leasing, intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance (ISR), maintenance repair overhaul, modernization and upgrades, radar, satellite communications, airborne logistics, air cargo, value-added distribution, unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and counter unmanned aerial systems (C-UAS).![Brandon Bradford, CFA – Partner | CIO – Acorn Capital Management Brandon Bradford, CFA - Partner | CIO - Acorn Capital Management](https://acorncapitalmanagement.com/wp-content/uploads/elementor/thumbs/ACORN_Brandon-Bradford-qqtazp1z6kxi47kzyd4v69cz4zhutc4798q66kgrkk.jpg)
Brandon
Bradford, CFA
Partner | CIO
Brandon Bradford, CFA
Partner | CIO
CAREER
- Acorn Capital Management
- Citadel
- Millennium
- Vollero Beach
- Delos Investments
EDUCATION
- University of Oklahoma, BA, Accounting
- University of Oklahoma, MBA
TENURE
- Brandon joined Acorn in 2014.
SUMMARY BIO
As a partner, Brandon leads Acorn’s portfolio and risk management practices, which includes developing proprietary macro, sector, and subsector research and performance monitoring capabilities. Brandon also participates in the firm’s due diligence efforts and serves on the investment committee.![Annie Walker – CFO – Acorn Capital Management Annie Walker - CFO - Acorn Capital Management](https://acorncapitalmanagement.com/wp-content/uploads/elementor/thumbs/ACORN_Annie-Walker-qqtazp1z6kxi47kzyd4v69cz4zhutc4798q66kgrkk.jpg)
Annie
Walker, CPA
CFO
Annie Walker, CPA
CFO
CAREER
- Acorn Capital Management
- Robinson Park
- M-D Building Products
- American Energy Partners
- Bradford Industrial Supply
- Love’s Travel Stops
EDUCATION
- University of West Florida, BSBA, Accounting
TENURE
- Annie joined Acorn in 2023.
SUMMARY BIO
As chief financial officer, Annie manages and oversees the financial management of the firm, its funds, and its portfolio companies. Annie has over 15 years of experience in developing accounting policies and procedures, utilizing technology and strategic team management. Her background includes working with private equity backed companies, manufacturing, oil and gas, and wholesale. She has Six Sigma training and a proven record of implementing operational and back-office improvements.![Greg Agnew – Partner – Acorn Capital Management Greg Agnew - Partner - Acorn Capital Management](https://acorncapitalmanagement.com/wp-content/uploads/elementor/thumbs/ACORN_Greg-Agnew-qqtazp1z6kxi47kzyd4v69cz4zhutc4798q66kgrkk.jpg)
Greg
Agnew
Partner
Greg Agnew
Partner
CAREER
- Acorn Capital Management
- Canaccord Genuity LLC
- FBR
- JefferiesQuarterdeck
- Raymond James
EDUCATION
- Florida State University, BS, Economics
TENURE
- Greg joined Acorn in 2018.
SUMMARY BIO
Greg has spent his 20-year career in the financial services industry in both investment banking and advisory and equity research roles, the vast majority of which have been focused on the aerospace, defense and government contracting markets.Henry
Gregson
Partner
Henry Gregson
Partner
CAREER
- Acorn Capital Management
- GR Investment Partners
- HIG European Capital Partners
- Royal Bank of Scotland
EDUCATION
- University of Bristol, BS, Civil Engineering
- Harvard Graduate School, MBA
TENURE
- Henry joined Acorn in 2018.
SUMMARY BIO
As partner at Acorn, Henry is responsible for identifying and managing direct investment opportunities and transactions in the European market. Henry has spent 29 years in private equity during which he has made 25 investments, managed 29 investments, invested £881 million of equity and has achieved an average money multiple for investors of 3.1x.Andrew
Pollack
Vice President
Andrew Pollack
Vice President
CAREER
- Acorn Capital Management
- Gladstone Capital
- Hovde Group
- FBR & Co
EDUCATION
- University of Richmond, BBA, Finance
TENURE
- Andrew joined Acorn in 2021.
SUMMARY BIO
Andrew serves as a Vice President with Acorn and supports the team in identifying and evaluating investment opportunities, performing transaction due diligence, and working with management teams to implement operational and growth strategies. Andrew joined Acorn from Gladstone Capital, where he focused on debt and equity investments across a variety of industries. He began his career in investment banking at Hovde Group and FBR & Co., where he focused on mergers & acquisition transactions across the Specialty Finance and Industrials sectors.Tillie
Allen
Investor Relations
Tillie Allen
Investor Relations
CAREER
- Acorn Capital Management
- Truist Securities
EDUCATION
- University of Georgia Terry College of Business, BBA, Finance
TENURE
- Tillie joined Acorn in 2022.
SUMMARY BIO
Tillie supports Acorn’s fundraising and investor relations efforts with current and prospective investors. Prior to joining Acorn, Tillie was an Investment Banking Analyst at Truist Securities. She worked within the Leveraged Finance group advising and executing capital raises for corporate and sponsor clients, including leveraged loans, high yield, and bank debt.Tyler
Shupack
Associate
Tyler Shupack
Associate
CAREER
- Acorn Capital Management
- The McLean Group
- Deloitte
EDUCATION
- James Madison University, BBA, Finance
TENURE
- Tyler joined Acorn in 2024.
SUMMARY BIO
Tyler serves as an Associate with Acorn and supports the team in identifying and evaluating investment opportunities, performing transaction due diligence, and working with management teams to implement operational and growth strategies. Tyler joined Acorn from The McLean Group, where he focused on sell-side mergers & acquisition transactions within the Aerospace, Defense, and Government Services industry. He began his career in the Valuation & Modeling group at Deloitte, where he performed business valuations across a variety of sectors, including Renewable Energy and Logistics.No more pages to load
Operating Partners
Darryl
Wilkerson, Phd
Partner | COO
Darryl Wilkerson, PhD
Partner | COO
CAREER
- Acorn Capital Management
- L3 Technologies
- Teledyne Brown Engineering
- Raytheon
- United States Air Force
EDUCATION
- Columbia International University, PhD, Organizational Leadership
- Chadron State College, MS, Management
- The University of Alabama, BA, Interdisciplinary Studies
TENURE
- Darryl joined Acorn’s advisory board in 2004 and became a full-time member of the management team in 2006.
KEY BOARDS & ORGANIZATIONS
- Board of Directors, Folds of Honor
- Air Force Association (AFA)
- Aerospace Industries Association (AIA)
- Association of the US Army (AUSA)
- Global Special Operations Forces Foundation
- National Defense Industrial Association (NDIA)
SUMMARY BIO
Darryl is a career defense and intelligence executive with over 40 years of operations and leadership experience in the national security domain. This includes more than 15 years as a member of the Acorn leadership team. Prior to his appointment as a partner, chief operating officer, and member of the capital management team in 2020, he served with distinction as the President and CEO of Acorn’s Integrated Defense Group.John
Blevins
CCO
John Blevins
CCO
CAREER
- Acorn Capital Management
- Heartland Compliance Advisors
- PineBridge Investments
- BlackRock
- Lazard Asset Management
- SSB Citi Asset Management Group
- AIG Global Investment Group
- First Investors Corporation
- Banks of Mid-America, Inc.
- Coopers & Lybrand
EDUCATION
- Oklahoma State University, BS, Accounting
TENURE
- John joined Acorn in 2023.
SUMMARY BIO
Before joining Acorn, John was Global Chief Compliance Officer for PineBridge Investments and was a member of the firm’s senior leadership team. Prior to PineBridge, John was Global Deputy Chief Compliance Officer for BlackRock. John led the implementation of BlackRock’s compliance program during the firm’s acquisition of Merrill Lynch Investment Management in 2006, and during the acquisition of Barclay’s Global Investors in 2009, which led to BlackRock becoming the world’s largest investment management firm. John has also been Global Chief Compliance Officer for Lazard Asset Management, Director of Compliance for North America for SSB Citi Asset Management, and Global Director of Compliance for AIG Global Investment Group.Jeff
Morton
Partner | Senior Advisor
Jeff Morton
Partner | Senior Advisor
CAREER
- Acorn Capital Management
- Ernst & Young
- Deloitte & Touche
- Eateries
EDUCATION
- Baldwin-Wallace College, BA, Finance
TENURE
- Jeff joined Acorn in 2005.
KEY BOARDS & ORGANIZATIONS
- Oklahoma Venture Forum Board
SUMMARY BIO
As a senior partner, Jeff manages and oversees the financial management of the firm, its funds, and its portfolio companies. He plays a critical role as part of the capital management team with efforts related to identification, negotiation, due diligence and acquisition. He actively participates in the corporate governance of the firm and is a board member of a number of the portfolio companies. Jeff has more than 30 years of financial management experience, as a senior manager with both Ernst & Young (formerly Arthur Young) and Deloitte & Touche (formerly Touche & Ross), and as the chief financial officer of numerous public and private, small-to medium-sized companies in various industries, including energy, food services, publishing, government contracting and banking. He has also been an entrepreneur, developing a multi-unit restaurant company he later sold.Carol
Crick
VP, Human Resources
Carol Crick
VP, Human Resources
CAREER
- Acorn Capital Management
- Select Energy Services
EDUCATION
- Central Texas College, BA, Business Administration
TENURE
- Carol joined Acorn in 2016.
KEY BOARDS & ORGANIZATIONS
- Aerospace Employer Advisory Board for COWIB
SUMMARY BIO
Carol serves as the vice president of human resources for the firm’s portfolio of companies. She is responsible for managing the HR managers from each of Acorn’s portfolio companies, benefit providers and brokers. She brings her expertise in recruitment, writing policies and employee handbooks, as well as benefit management to the firm.Gary
Ambrose
Managing Director
Gary Ambrose
Managing Director
CAREER
- Acorn Capital Management
- Berry Aviation
- Martin Defense Group
- Oklahoma State University
- Navatek LLC
- OSU Research Foundation
- Valair Aviation
- Commuter Air Technology
- U.S. Navy
EDUCATION
- USMC Command and Staff College, MS, Counterterrorism Operations
- Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, MS, Aviation Management
- Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, MS, Aeronautics, Aviation, Aerospace Science, and Technology
- University of New York, BS, Psychology
TENURE
- Gary joined Acorn in 2021.
KEY BOARDS & ORGANIZATIONS
- Board Member, Folds of Honor Oklahoma
SUMMARY BIO
As Managing Director for Acorn Capital Management, Gary brings 39 years of aviation, defense, advanced technology, and leadership experience. He supports cross-functionally the activities of the firm and specializes in developing portfolio growth, business development strategies, and optimizing synergistic effects of the portfolio. He also supports organic growth acquisition and is an active leader in Acorn’s government affairs activities. He is a retired Naval Aviator and holds dual MS degrees in Aviation Management and Military Studies (Counterterrorism). He holds Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) and Unmanned Aircraft FAA licenses. He is an active member of the Navy League and is a board member with Folds of Honor.Chad
Tyler
Controller
Chad Tyler
Controller
CAREER
- Acorn Capital Management
- Tenluke Management
- Stingray Energy Services
- Peters & Chandler, P.C.
EDUCATION
- Bacone College, BS in Accounting
TENURE
- Chad joined Acorn in 2017
SUMMARY BIO
Chad serves as our Controller for Acorn. He assists our CFO in managing the financial management of the firm, its funds and portfolio companies.Jamie
Nance
Office Manager
Jamie Nance
Office Manager
CAREER
- Acorn Capital Management
- Monscierge
- Pilot Thomas Logistics
- SSM Health
EDUCATION
- Attended Oklahoma State University
TENURE
- Jamie joined Acorn in 2021.
SUMMARY BIO
Jamie serves as the Executive Coordinator and Office Manager for Acorn. She leverages over 7 years of experience and expertise in supporting C-level executives. Throughout her career, she has earned the reputation as a resourceful and multi-tasking leader across a broad spectrum of responsibilities. Jamie takes care of myriad daily responsibilities in the Oklahoma City office and assists the D.C. office when needed. She ensures the smooth operation of the firm with her extensive organizational knowledge, her strong performance in high-volume, high-pressure environments, and provides extensive and detailed executive support.No more pages to load
Board Members / Advisors
Jeff
Davis
Founding Partner
Jeff Davis
Founding Partner
CAREER
- Albany Chamber of Commerce
- Still Water Chamber of Commerce
EDUCATION
- University of Arkansas, Walton School of Business, BS, Marketing
- Southern Methodist University, Institute for Organization Management
- The University of Notre Dame, The Academy for Organization Management
TENURE
- Davis founded the firm in 2000 and transitioned to a senior advisor role in 2018.
SUMMARY BIO
As Acorn’s founding partner, Davis has provided leadership in all aspects of the firm’s operations and portfolio development activities, and currently manages the firm’s services and finance portfolios. Jeff serves on Acorn’s governance and investment committees and supports Acorn’s investor relations functions. He is heavily involved with deal sourcing, due diligence, transition support and portfolio management.Jim
Bridenstine
Senior Advisor
Jim Bridenstine
Senior Advisor
CAREER
- JB Solutions
- NASA Administrator
- U.S. House of Representatives (OK-01)
- U.S. Navy Pilot
EDUCATION
- Cornell University, MBA, Management
- Rice University, BA, Economics, Business, and Psychology
KEY BOARDS & ORGANIZATIONS
- Chair, Board of Advisors for Voyager Space
SUMMARY BIO
Jim was nominated to be the Administrator of NASA on September 1, 2017; he was confirmed by the U.S. Senate on April 19, 2018. Jim was on the Committee on Science, Space and Technology during his time in Congress. He was the first elected official to be appointed NASA Administrator. As administrator, Jim has led NASA in advancing America’s aeronautics, science, and space exploration objectives.John
Nash
Senior Advisor
John Nash
Senior Advisor
CAREER
- Acorn Capital Management
- Oklahoma State Secretary of Military and Veteran Affairs
- U.S. Department of Defense
- U.S. Department of State
- United States Army
- Founder/CEO Sporting Global
EDUCATION
- Seton Hall University, Juris Doctor (JD)
- European University, MBA, Sports Management
- University of Oklahoma, BA, History
SUMMARY BIO
Before joining Acorn, John had over 20 years of government service in multiple agencies including the United States Army, U.S. Department of Defense, and the US State Department. He served in a variety of special operations, national security, and diplomatic roles. Following his government service, John founded the international sports management firm, Sporting Global. He currently serves as the Oklahoma State Secretary for Military and Veteran Affairs.Chris
Caron
Senior Advisor
Chris Caron
Senior Advisor
CAREER
- Oculus Strategies
- National Security Index
- Steptoe & Johnson LLP
- The Office of U.S. Representative Tom Cole (OK, 04)
- The Office of U.S. Representative Jo Ann Davis (VA-01)
- United States Conference of Catholic Bishops
- United States Army
- Republican National Committee
- Heritage Foundation
EDUCATION
- The Catholic University of America, BA, Politics
KEY BOARDS & ORGANIZATIONS
- Armed Forces Communications & Electronics Association
- Air Force Association
- Army Aviation Association of America
- Association of Old Crows
- Association of the United States Army
- National Defense Industrial Association
- Navy League
- U.S. Naval Institute
SUMMARY BIO
Chris focuses his practice on federal funding opportunities. Prior to joining Steptoe, Chris was the deputy chief of staff and an appropriations associate at the Office of Congressman Tom Cole (R-OK). He managed the day-to-day operations and staff of member’s legislative shop as deputy of staff, as well as conducted and managed member’s appropriations work as associate staff to the House Appropriations Committee. Chris also served in a variety of other roles during his time at Congressman Tom Cole’s office, including Republican leadership liaison for NRCC chairman, legislative director/military legislative assistant, Rules Committee associate, and budget committee associate. He also worked for Congresswoman Jo Ann Davis, Congresswoman Helen Chenowerth-Hage, Congressman Tom Latham, Congressman Joe Pitts, and he interned for former House Majority Leader Congressman Dick Armey.Bob
Campbell
Advisor
Bob Campbell
Advisor
CAREER
- Campbell Global Services LLC
- Deloitte LLC
- Bipartisan Policy Center Task Force on the Federal Deficit
EDUCATION
- The LBJ School of Public Affairs, MS, Public Affairs
- Austin College, BA, Business Administration
KEY BOARDS & ORGANIZATIONS
- Executive Committee of the East West Institute
- Aspen Group
- Austin Council of Foreign Affairs
- Bunker Energy Partners LLC
- Access Health Care
- Paratus Diagnostics
- Hawk Apparel
- Talent Guard
- Ayata, Nuero Chaos
- Britton Hill Investment Partners LLC
SUMMARY BIO
Bob has spent more than 40 years working with corporate and government clients on challenging management, operational and financial management issues. Prior to his retirement, Bob led the U.S. Public Sector practice at Deloitte & Touche LLC and served as their vice president. He is on the board of the Executive Committee of the East West Institute, Aspen Group and Austin Council of Foreign Affairs, and is the former chairman of the Advisory Council of the Lyndon B. Johnson School of Public Affairs.John
Deblasio
Advisor
John Deblasio
Advisor
CAREER
- GPD Charitable Trust
- Bootstrap Capital LLC
- Sallyport Global Holdings
- META Group
- GE Capital
- GE Plastics Europe
- U.S. Army
EDUCATION
- United States Military Academy at West Point, Engineering
- University of South Carolina, MIBS, International Business & German Language
KEY BOARDS & ORGANIZATIONS
- Workstorm
- ContinuityGS
- DT Global
- DT Institute
- HySpecIQ
- YPO
- Chicago Council on Global Affairs
- Illinois Joining Forces Foundation
- Crown Center for Middle East
- Social Science Foundation
- U.S.-Iraq Business Dialogue
- Chicago Council on Global Affairs
SUMMARY BIO
John DeBlasio is Chairman of DT Global and Continuity Global Services and founder and director of the GPD Charitable Trust and the DT Institute. Previously, John was sole owner of Sallyport Global Holdings, which he co-founded in 2004. Over 8 years, John built an organization that employed more than 1,900 people worldwide and became the largest provider of security and facilities management services to USAID prime contractors operating in Iraq, as well as a primary contractor for the Department of Defense and Department of State work in Central Asia and Africa. Following the sale of Sallyport to DC Capital Partners in 2012, he established the GPD Charitable Trust to work on issues related to international development and peace/conflict resolution globally. The Trust now has operations in over 90 countries around the world through its unique program-related investment in DT Global.John is a 1989 West Point graduate who retired as a lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Army Reserve Civil Affairs branch, and was deployed to the Middle East in 2003-2004. During his time in combat service in Iraq, he was awarded a Bronze Star as well as a Joint Service Commendation medal.
Carl
Edwards
Advisor
Carl Edwards
Advisor
CAREER
- Price Edwards & Company
EDUCATION
- University of Oklahoma, BA, Economics
KEY BOARDS & ORGANIZATIONS
- Presbyterian Health Foundation
- Oklahoma City Water Utilities Trust
- Oklahoma Metropolitan Area Public Schools Trust
- Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation
- Technology Transfer Committee
- i2E
- Downtown OKC, Inc.
- Oklahoma Business Roundtable
SUMMARY BIO
Carl is a partner of Price Edwards & Company, the largest Oklahoma-based commercial real estate service company. Edwards serves as chairman of the Presbyterian Health Foundation, a local foundation that owns and operates a $100+ million bioscience research park at the OU Health Center. Carl is a member of the board of trustees of the Oklahoma City Water Utilities Trust. Carl is also a member of the board of trustees and chairman of the Oklahoma Metropolitan Area Public Schools Trust (better known as the MAPS for Kids Trust).Gary
Fitzmire
Advisor
Gary Fitzmire
Advisor
CAREER
- Boeing
- McDonnell Douglas
- General Electric Aircraft Engines
- General Dynamics
EDUCATION
- Ohio State University, BSME, Mechanical Engineering
- Washington University in St. Louis, MBA, Finance
Randy
Groom
Advisor
Randy Groom
Advisor
CAREER
- Groom Aviation, LLC
- Piper Aircraft
- Raytheon Aircraft
- Hawker Beechcraft
- Piedmont Hawthorn Aviation
EDUCATION
- Oklahoma State University, MBA, Marketing
SUMMARY BIO
Randy has one of the most comprehensive resumes in the general aviation industry. He has been a professional in the general aviation industry for nearly 40 years, holding positions ranging from flight instructor and charter pilot to the Executive Vice President of Piper and the President of Beechcraft. He is a general aviation leader of unquestionable integrity and enthusiasm for the business.John
Heskin
Advisor
John Heskin
Advisor
CAREER
- AltAero Aviation Finance
- First Citizens Bank
- CIT Bank
- GE Capital
- Banc One Capital Markets
- First Chicago
EDUCATION
- The University of Chicago Booth School of Business, MBA, Finance and Accounting
- University of Illinois Urbana Champaign, BS, Finance, Business, Spanish
- Universidad del Salvador, Study Abroad Business/History
SUMMARY BIO
John’s primary focus is leading the firm’s financial services platform, AltAero Aviation Finance, as its CEO. He is responsible for the strategic direction, originations, and portfolio management. Heskin has over 25 years of financial services experience spanning many roles including credit underwriting, risk management, originations, and business leader. Prior to joining Acorn, John was Managing Director and Group Head of CIT Bank’s Aerospace, Defense, and Government Services lending practice, which focuses on lending to private equity-owned businesses as well as aviation asset financing. Over his 16-year career with CIT, he worked as a credit underwriter and as an originator prior to being named Group Head in 2017. Prior to CIT, John worked at GE Capital as a risk manager and at Bank One/First Chicago in its Asset Backed Securities Group as well as in its International Credit function.Danny
Hilliard
Advisor
Danny Hilliard
Advisor
CAREER
- DCH Strategies, LLC
- Chickasaw National Department of Commerce
- University of Oklahoma
- Murray County Insurance Agency
- Oklahoma House of Representatives
EDUCATION
- East Central University, BA, Communication and Media Studies
- Dallas Institute for Funeral Service, AAS
KEY BOARDS & ORGANIZATIONS
- Sovereign Properties HoldCo,
- The Chickasaw Nation
- Greater Oklahoma City Chamber
- Oklahoma City Adventure District
- Children’s Health Foundation
- i2E, Inc.
SUMMARY BIO
Danny was appointed in July 2015, and serves as President of Corporate Development for the Chickasaw Nation. Danny served in the Oklahoma House of Representatives for 14 years, and most recently as vice president of External Relations and Planning for the University of Oklahoma.William O.
Johnstone
Advisor
William O. Johnstone
Advisor
CAREER
- Council Oak Partners, LLC
EDUCATION
- University of Oklahoma, MBA
- University of Oklahoma, BA, Economics
KEY BOARDS & ORGANIZATIONS
- BancFirst Corporation
- Frank Phillips Foundation, Inc
- Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation
SUMMARY BIO
Bill currently serves as manager and CEO of Council Oak Partners, LLC, an Oklahoma-based private equity firm specializing in recapitalizations, as well as merger and acquisition financing. He has been managing the company since 2000. Bill is an experienced advisor to financial services and investment firms, serving as vice chairman and director of BancFirst Corporation since 1996. Previously, he served as president, CEO, and chairman of City Bank & Trust from 1985 to 1996. In addition, Bill is a trustee and vice chairman of the Frank Phillips Foundation, Inc., and serves on the executive committee for the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation.Admiral Bobby
R. Inman (Ret.)
Advisor
Admiral Bobby R. Inman (Ret.)
Advisor
CAREER
- LBJ School of Public Affairs at The University of Texas at Austin
- Limestone
- Gefinor Ventures
- Westmark Systems
- MCC
- U.S. Navy
EDUCATION
- The University of Texas at Austin, BA, History
KEY BOARDS & ORGANIZATIONS
- Constellis Group
- MobiTV
SUMMARY BIO
Adm. Bobby R. Inman served in the U.S. Navy from November 1951 to July 1982, retiring with the permanent rank of admiral. On active duty, he served as director of the National Security Agency and as deputy director of Central Intelligence. After retirement from the Navy, Bobby was chairman and CEO of the Microelectronics and Computer Technology Corporation (MCC) in Austin, Texas, for four years and chairman, president, and chief executive officer of Westmark Systems Inc., a privately owned electronics industry holding company, for three years. Bobby also served as chairman of the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas from 1987 through 1990. His primary business activity since 1990 has been investing in startup technology companies, serving as managing director of Gefinor Ventures and Limestone Capital Advisors. He serves as a trustee of the American Assembly and the California Institute of Technology. Bobby is an elected fellow of the National Academy of Public Administration and serves as an adjunct professor at The University of Texas at Austin.Governor Frank
A. Keating
Advisor
Governor Frank A. Keating
Advisor
CAREER
- President and CEO of the American Bankers Association (ABA)
- President and CEO of the American Council of Life Insurers (ACLI)
- Governor of Oklahoma
- General Counsel and Acting Deputy Secretary of the Department of Housing and Urban Development
- Associate Attorney General of the United States
- Assistant Secretary of the U.S. Treasury Department
- U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Oklahoma
- Oklahoma Senate
- Oklahoma House of Representatives
- FBI
EDUCATION
- The University of Oklahoma, Doctor of Jurisprudence
- Georgetown University, BA, History
KEY BOARDS & ORGANIZATIONS
- Bipartisan Policy Center
SUMMARY BIO
Keating, former two-term governor of Oklahoma, is an attorney in the financial services team and focuses on the banking, financial services, and insurance industries. He recently completed a five-year term as president and CEO of the American Bankers Association (ABA); from 2003 to 2011, he was president and CEO of the American Council of Life Insurers (ACLI).Randy
Martinez
Advisor
Randy Martinez
Advisor
CAREER
- BHLT, LLC
- MTS Systems Corporation
- AAR Corp., Inc.
- World Airways
- U.S. Air Force
EDUCATION
- United States Air Force Academy, BS, Organizational Behavior
- National Defense University, MS, National Resource Strategy
- University of Arkansas, MS, Operations Management
- Northwestern University, CEO Perspective Course
KEY BOARDS & ORGANIZATIONS
- Special Operations Fund
- Society of International Business Fellows
- National Defense Transportation Association (NDTA)
SUMMARY BIO
Randy has an exceptional track record of leadership in billion-dollar public corporations in aviation, aerospace, and defense. A vision-driven executive, he has remarkable strengths in leading the creation of new strategies, producing unprecedented financial success, and driving operational excellence. Among many noteworthy achievements, he has led multimillion-dollar revenue and profit growth, significant turnarounds and has a successful track record in strategic acquisitions as well as organic profit and loss growth.Rear Admiral James
J. Quinn (Ret.)
Advisor
Rear Admiral James J. Quinn (Ret.)
Advisor
CAREER
- Arotech Corporation
- Northrop Grumman Corporation
- U.S. Navy
EDUCATION
- United States Navy, Nuclear Power Program, Graduate
- United States Naval Academy, BS, Mathematics
KEY BOARDS & ORGANIZATIONS
- The Tailhook Education Foundation, Inc
- Young America’s Foundation Reagan Ranch Board of Governors
- San Diego Military Affairs Council (SDMAC)
- San Diego Fleet Week
SUMMARY BIO
James is a highly accomplished operating executive with experience as a chief operating officer and CEO over multiple commands as a rear admiral with the United States Navy. He is an experienced business leader with more than 20 years of senior executive management experience in government and private industry. James has demonstrated expertise in international marketing and sales, strategic business planning, government relations and budgetary planning. He has a deep understanding and rolodex in the Washington Interagency and DOD acquisition process throughout government and industry, including congressional members and committee staff. James’s domain expertise spans manned and unmanned systems, cyber security, strike and surveillance systems, satellite communications and missile defense.Robert J.
Ross
Advisor
Robert J. Ross
Advisor
CAREER
- Inasmuch Foundation
- Ethics and Excellence in Journalism Foundation
- McAfee & Taft
EDUCATION
- University of Oklahoma, Doctor of Jurisprudence
- Washington and Lee University, BS, Business Administration
KEY BOARDS & ORGANIZATIONS
- Colorado College
- Greater Oklahoma City Chamber of Commerce
- Oklahoma City Museum of Art
- Oklahoma City National Memorial
- Oklahoma City University
- Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation
- Oklahoma Public School Resource Center
- Oklahoma State Fair
- Oklahoma Watch
- John W. Rex Elementary School
- OU College of Law Board of Visitors
- OU Foundation
- Roff Oil & Gas
- State Board of Career and Technology Education
- State Board of Education
- Sunbeam Family Services
- Teach for America–Oklahoma City and Westminster School
- Member of Young Presidents’ Organization (YPO)
SUMMARY BIO
Robert currently serves as president, CEO and member of the Board of Directors of Inasmuch Foundation and the Ethics and Excellence in Journalism Foundation. The foundations were founded by Edith Kinney Gaylord in 1982. Ross was previously employed as an Attorney with the Oklahoma City law firm, McAfee & Taft. He is a graduate of Bishop McGuinness Catholic High School and Washington and Lee University, where he received a BS in Business Administration. He received his Juris Doctor degree from the University of Oklahoma.Laura
Siegal
Advisor
Laura Siegal
Advisor
CAREER
- Integrated Polymer Solutions
- Acorn Capital Management
- NEO Teach
- Kratos Defense & Security Solutions
EDUCATION
- UC San Diego, BA, Economics
- Colby College
KEY BOARDS & ORGANIZATIONS
- Iteris, Inc.
- Creation Technologies
SUMMARY BIO
Laura is a public company director and results-oriented leader with over 30 years of experience providing strategic guidance and operational oversight, with a passion for business success and talent growth. She has significant experience with strategic initiatives addressing opportunities and changing cycles resulting in successful business transformations. Her strengths include developing talent, integrating domestic and international teams, providing technical and financial oversight for public equity offerings, private placements, public and bank debt offerings, mergers and acquisitions, divestitures, and interactions with the SEC. During her career, she has completed 24 acquisitions and six divestitures with a focus on the aerospace and defense markets.Greg
Wedel
Senior Advisor
Greg Wedel
Senior Advisor
CAREER
- Remington Capital, LLC
- Wedel Rahill & Associates, CPA’s PLC
- Bancfirst Corporation
EDUCATION
- University of Central Oklahoma, BS, Accounting
KEY BOARDS & ORGANIZATIONS
- American Trailer Works Inc.
- Oklahoma Dental Foundation
- Trustee, Oklahoma Christian University
SUMMARY BIO
Gregory G. Wedel is the managing member of Remington Capital, LLC, a privately owned investment partnership operating in Texas, Oklahoma and the Southwestern United States. Remington has been an active private investor over the last 35+ years, investing in a broad number of private equity, real estate, oil and gas and other alternative investments. Wedel has led Remington since it and its predecessors were established in May of 1989.
Wedel is the managing member of Wedel Rahill & Associates, CPA’s PLC, a public accounting firm established in 1984. Wedel is an experienced advisor to financial services and investment firms, serving as Independent Director and Audit Committee Chairman of Bancfirst Corporation, and numerous other private companies and non-profits.
Wedel earned a B.S. degree in Accounting from the University of Central Oklahoma and is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the Oklahoma Society of Certified Public Accountants.
Rainey
Williams
Senior Advisor
Rainey Williams
Senior Advisor
CAREER
- Marco Capital Group
- BancFirst Corporation
- University of Oklahoma, Price College of Business, MBA Program
EDUCATION
- University of Oklahoma College of Law, Doctor of Jurisprudence
- Southern Methodist University, BBA, Finance
KEY BOARDS & ORGANIZATIONS
- American Trailer Works Inc.
SUMMARY BIO
G. Rainey Williams, Jr. is president of Marco Capital Group A Limited Partnership, a privately owned investment partnership operating in Oklahoma, Texas, and the Southwestern United States. Marco has been an active private investor over the last 25+ years, investing in a broad number of private equity, real estate, and other alternative investments. Rainey has led Marco since it and its predecessors were established in 1989.Craig
Woodruff
Advisor
Craig Woodruff
Advisor
CAREER
- Lume Advisors, LLC
- Acorn Capital Management
- SinglePoint Financial
- MDW Consulting, LLC
- Panhandle Oilfield Service Companies, Inc.
- Great Plains Oilfield Rentals
- Archer – The Well Company
- Great White Energy Services LLC
- Chesapeake Energy
EDUCATION
- Oklahoma City University, Meinders School of Business, MBA
- Oklahoma State University, BS, Political Science and Philosophy
KEY BOARDS & ORGANIZATIONS
- OKC Metropolitan Library Trust
SUMMARY BIO
Craig brings more than 15 years of financial and operations management experience with both large, public companies and privately held startup organizations. His background includes technical areas of operations, finance, treasury, and accounting, as finance director for a division of Chesapeake Energy, and more recently CFO for a private equity-backed services firm. Craig was a member of the leadership team responsible for the formulation and execution of the short – and long-term strategic plans, while ensuring timely access to capital resources. His extensive experience includes profit and loss responsibility for domestic and international portfolio companies, along with oversight of start-ups and strategic expansion efforts across the U.S., Canada and in China.No more pages to load