In this episode of Beyond Strategy, we sit down with Katie Selbe, Chief Executive Officer of GRVTY, a fast-rising defense technology company delivering advanced platforms, software, and data solutions to support national security operations. With a career that began in systems engineering and evolved into senior leadership roles at Northrop Grumman, Alion, BlueHalo, and Eqlipse, Katie brings deep technical knowledge and proven executive insight to her role at the helm of GRVTY.

GRVTY is redefining mission-driven innovation with cutting-edge capabilities in geospatial and signals intelligence, cyber operations, and automated Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance, and Targeting (ISR&T). Its portfolio includes the SPEAR platform for real-time RF signal detection, AI-powered software for aerospace and cyberspace situational awareness, and expert teams that turn complex data into actionable intelligence.

In this episode, Katie shares:

• Her journey from engineer to CEO
• GRVTY’s mission and the impact it’s having across the defense ecosystem
• How the company is building a culture of innovation and execution
• The integration of standout firms like Royce Geo, VGI, and Dark Star
• And the leadership principles that guide her through growth and change

Katie also offers powerful reflections on building high-performing teams, the future of defense technology, and the lessons she's learned leading in fast-paced, high-stakes environments.

Tune in for an energizing conversation with one of national security’s most forward-thinking leaders.

In this episode of Beyond Strategy, we sit down with Erik Wittreich, CEO of Ridgeline International, a cutting-edge software and technology firm at the forefront of digital privacy and surveillance protection. A proud portfolio company of Enlightenment Capital, Ridgeline has become a key player in the national security technology space—supporting U.S. government agencies and private sector clients with secure infrastructure, digital signature management, and managed attribution solutions.

Based in Tysons, Virginia, Ridgeline is not just a tech company—it’s a mission-driven partner helping clients counter the growing threats of ubiquitous technical surveillance and global data exploitation. Erik shares how Ridgeline’s proprietary software and elite tradecraft empower customers to operate securely in an increasingly exposed digital world.

In this conversation, Erik walks us through Ridgeline’s strategic growth journey, including its 2025 acquisition of System High Corporation, another Enlightenment Capital portfolio company. The deal brought together two leaders in national security—merging Ridgeline’s digital protection capabilities with System High’s deep experience in protection and security engineering services.

With a background as an Army Green Beret, Erik brings a unique blend of military discipline and corporate vision to his role as CEO. He reflects on:

• His leadership evolution in high-pressure environments
• What it takes to build and scale mission-critical teams
• The strategy behind the Ridgeline + System High integration
• And the challenges and opportunities ahead in the world of digital defense and national security

Whether you're an investor, entrepreneur, national security professional, or simply curious about where technology meets mission, this episode delivers insight, inspiration, and a look into what it means to lead at the edge of innovation.

Tune in now to hear Erik Wittreich’s powerful perspective on leading Ridgeline International into its next era.

Beyond Strategy is back with another episode, and this time, we’re diving deep into the creation and evolution of Amentum, a global leader in engineering and technology solutions serving the U.S. Government and allied partners.

In this episode, we sit down with John Heller, Chief Executive Officer, and Adam Harrison, SVP of Strategy & Corporate Development at Amentum, to explore the company’s transformation following its strategic combination with Jacobs Solutions’ Critical Mission Solutions and Cyber & Intelligence businesses.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

The story behind Amentum’s formation and go-public journey. The leadership challenges of integrating multiple mission-focused businesses. How John’s extensive CEO experience helped shape the company’s strategy. The decision-making process behind Amentum’s branding and messaging. How the leadership team was built to drive long-term success. Insights on optimizing a global workforce of 53,000 employees across 80 countries. The key differentiators that position Amentum for future success.

John and Adam also share personal lessons from their careers, reflect on leadership in a high-growth environment, and discuss what keeps them up at night as they lead one of the most impactful companies in the defense and government sector.

Tune in now for an inside look at Amentum’s bold strategy, leadership insights, and the future of mission-driven innovation!