Phil Hahn Pittsburgh, PA

Phil Hahn is a distinguished leader with over two decades of experience in the U.S. Air Force, government, and private sector, specializing in defense strategy and technology innovation. As the first Deputy Director and Chief Strategy Officer for AFWERX and SpaceWERX, he spearheaded the establishment of the organization's foundational structure, including the development of the Department of the Air Forces dual-use technology process now widely adopted across the Department of Defense. He oversaw the execution of a $5.2 billion portfolio, enabling the transition of commercial innovations into critical military capabilities, while forging strategic partnerships with senior leaders across the Department of Defense, academia, private industry, and global allies.

Phil’s expertise as a flight test engineer and mission director underpins his reputation as a pioneer in advanced military aviation and technology development. Over the course of his career, he directed/flew hundreds of high-stakes test missions involving experimental and operational aircraft, drones, and prototypes, including groundbreaking stealth and avionics systems. He commanded cross-functional teams of engineers, pilots (when they would listen), and technicians to execute tests on cutting-edge platforms like the F-22/F-35, leveraging his unique blend of technical knowledge and operational acumen to deliver critical capabilities to the warfighter.

Throughout his career, Phil demonstrated exceptional leadership in diverse capacities. As commander of a cyber and communications squadron, he led teams to record-breaking performances while overseeing multi-million-dollar budgets and advanced IT infrastructures. His ability to drive results extended to his role leading Strategic Engagement for the Office of the Secretary of the Air Force for Acquisition, where he guided industry engagements for the $350 billion Air Force investment strategy across 230 major acquisition programs. His leadership ensured alignment of modernization priorities with Air Force strategic goals and operational readiness.

Beyond his military and government roles, Phil has made significant contributions in the private equity and investment space, advising on acquisitions, growth strategies, and business transformation initiatives for companies in multiple sectors. He has also advanced defense innovation through international collaborations with NATO and allied nations, driving procurement strategies that strengthened global partnerships and technology adoption.

Phil earned advanced degrees from Carnegie Mellon University (MBA) and Johns Hopkins University (M.S. Systems Engineering), as well as a B.S. in Electrical and Computer Engineering from Virginia Military Institute. Recognized for his strategic vision, technical expertise, and results-driven leadership, Phil has consistently excelled in advancing the intersection of defense innovation and public-private collaboration.