Five years later, it's remarkable to see a room full of founders in defense technology, with multiple companies valued over a billion dollars, actively working on capabilities for the Department of Defense.

Founders in defense tech should embrace the challenges of building in high-stakes environments, as the mission of contributing to security and stability is worth the effort.

My advice to the Department of Defense is to embrace a long-term perspective, understanding that iterative, fast-moving approaches are essential for developing effective technology.

The U.S. military has historically been a leader in integrating diverse groups and maintaining meritocracy, making it an institution that deserves support from tech companies.

It's crucial for startup CEOs to spend time near the military units they aim to support to understand their needs better.

To attract technology talent from the commercial sector to defense, it's important to emphasize the meaningful impact of their work.

It's crucial for those in technology to support national interests and provide the best technology to those protecting us, including military personnel.

We need to lower barriers for companies to work with the Department of Defense, making it easier for them to navigate the procurement process.

As taxpayers, veterans, and founders, we should want a competitive environment in defense contracting to address challenges faster and effectively.