Chris brings over 22 years of experience in the U.S. Air Force and tech sector, driving high-impact defense projects through strategic partnerships. As a key leader at PNW MAC, he fosters collaboration between military and industry innovators. He has held C-suite roles in biotech/MedTech and advised startups, helping bridge emerging technologies with real-world applications. A natural disruptor, Chris champions bold ideas, calculated risks, and innovation to solve mission-critical challenges.

Andrea Hegarty joined PNDC full-time in the spring of 2024 after working on the NATO DIANA (Defense Innovation Accelerator for the North Atlantic) program. She comes to PNDC following a successful career in advertising and marketing for national brands, where she honed her skills in brand strategy, audience engagement, program execution and event management. At PNDC, along with the operations team, Andrea is excited to set the stage for the staff to effectively support the organization’s events, programs, and member services.

Melanie comes from an Events & Marketing background with a range of experience in conference planning, trade show coordination, flagship event production, and venue operations. As PNDC’s Events & Marketing Coordinator, she leads efforts to deliver valuable experiences for its members through networking functions, business development opportunities, speaker and sponsor relations, and marketing materials. When not in planning mode, Melanie enjoys time with her husband and rambunctious Aussiedoodle, traveling the world, and cheering for the Seattle Seahawks.

Emma Greenberg is an Operations Specialist managing CRM systems, member outreach, and program support. With a nonprofit background and a History degree, she brings a unique problem-solving approach to operations. Passionate about team support and member engagement, she ensures smooth workflows and successful outcomes. Based in Portland, OR, she also enjoys teaching dance in her free time.

Ryan brings diverse experience as a naval aviator, attorney, and senior congressional aide. A U.S. Naval Academy graduate, he served as a P-3C Naval Flight Officer and continues his service in the U.S. Navy Reserve. He holds a Juris Doctor from the University of Washington and a Master of Public Policy from Georgetown. As PNW MAC’s Navy engagement lead, he plays a key role in fostering defense innovation in the Pacific Northwest. Ryan lives in Seattle with his wife and son.

Mark Martinez, a California native and U.S. Navy veteran, served eight years as a C-130 Aircrewman, deploying worldwide in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. His experience in aviation, logistics, and operational planning shaped his deep understanding of defense strategy. After his service, he worked in Congress, advocating for military readiness and national security initiatives. Mark holds a master’s in Applied Intelligence from Georgetown and a bachelor’s in Political Science from Pepperdine. In his free time, he enjoys woodworking.

Steve Rast brings over 20 years of experience in project management, consulting, and international defense, with a strong track record in ecosystem development. A former U.S. Marine Reconnaissance veteran, he is an active volunteer in his Bozeman, MT community. He holds a B.S. in Planning, Public Policy & Management and an MBA in Healthcare Management, along with a PMP certification since 2017.

Sa Faumuina is a Mission Innovation Lead at the Pacific Northwest Mission Acceleration Center (PNWMAC), where she connects mission needs with industry capabilities to deliver cutting-edge solutions. A First Sergeant in the Washington Air National Guard, she has led joint training initiatives in Thailand and Malaysia and specializes in cross-cultural collaboration. Certified as an Intensive Think Wrong Facilitator and Mediator, she excels in partnership development and creative problem-solving. Sa thrives on bringing people and ideas together to tackle complex challenges. Off duty, she enjoys snowboarding, boxing, and getting lost in a great book.

Sammi brings over a decade of experience in events and marketing, specializing in nonprofit, corporate, and tradeshow logistics. She excels in fundraising, volunteer coordination, vendor management, and executing impactful events of all sizes. As part of the PNDC and PNW MAC team, she leads event logistics and supports contract deliverables with exceptional project management and problem-solving skills. A people person at heart, Sammi thrives on building relationships and creating seamless experiences. Outside of work, she enjoys time with her husband and two sons, watching period dramas, and reading.