Alan R. Shaffer brings over four decades of distinguished leadership in defence and technology to his current role as Director, Washington Operations for MIT Lincoln Laboratory since April 2022. Previously, from 2019 to 2021, he served as Deputy Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment. His career highlights include directing the NATO Collaboration Support Office from 2015 to 2018. Mr Shaffer’s extensive government tenure also includes significant roles like Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering from 2007 to 2015. Before his civilian career, he served 24 years in the United States Air Force, retiring as a Colonel, with diverse assignments in command, intelligence, and acquisition oversight globally. Mr Shaffer holds advanced degrees in Meteorology and National Resource Strategy and has received prestigious awards for his public service, including multiple Presidential Rank Awards and the Secretary of Defense Medal.