Nolten: Recognizing a visionary leader in defense innovation
In an era where defense innovation is central to the strength and readiness of our military, it's vital to acknowledge those who lead the charge in transforming cutting-edge ideas into mission-ready capabilities. The Cyber Innovation Center (CIC) and I are proud to celebrate its Director of STRIKEWERX, Russ Mathers, who has been recognized as an AFWERX Trailblazer for his exceptional contributions to technology transfer and innovation for the U.S. Air Force.
Being named a Trailblazer is no small honor. These individuals embody the Air and Space Force’s commitment to challenging the status quo through vision, advocacy, collaboration, and decisive action. Having worked closely with Russ, I’ve seen firsthand his remarkable leadership, technical acumen, and steadfast dedication to excellence.
Since 2020, Russ has been instrumental in the success of STRIKEWERX, the innovation hub for Air Force Global Strike Command (AFGSC) and part of the CIC in Bossier City, Louisiana. Under his guidance, STRIKEWERX has become a national model for fostering collaboration among industry, academia, and government.
Russ is a genuine leader with a passion for tech-driven change and thoughtful advancement that inspires those around him. This is rooted in a distinguished 27-year Air Force career.
Kevin Nolten
As a B-52 and B-2 pilot, nuclear operations planner for U.S. Strategic Command, and Chief of Combat Plans in U.S. Air Forces Korea, Russ brought strategic insight to every assignment. He concluded his military service as Chief of Staff for the Eighth Air Force before transitioning to federal civilian service, where he served as Executive Director of AFGSC/A6 and the Air Force Nuclear Command, Control and Communications Center.
Today, Russ leads STRIKEWERX, the CIC’s partnership with AFGSC, advancing its mission as the innovation partner to the AFGSC Office of the Chief Scientist. His focus on technology transfer ensures that innovations developed by small businesses and industry partners are rapidly transitioned to the warfighter. This work demands not just technical fluency, but vision, perseverance, and an acute awareness of operational needs.
Under his leadership, STRIKEWERX has spearheaded four AFWERX Challenges including Emergency Aircrew Response, B-52 Air Refueling Training, Advanced Training Concepts, and Mobile Counter Small Unmanned Aerial Systems Swarm Defeat. These efforts, along with numerous design sprints and collaborative projects, have delivered nearly $300 million in projected savings for the U.S. Air Force.
Whether fostering critical partnerships, navigating innovative projects, or accelerating the delivery of new prototypes, Russ consistently demonstrates an unwavering commitment to mission success. His work not only advances Air Force capabilities, but it strengthens our national defense.
Russ’s recognition as an AFWERX Trailblazer is a testament to the value he brings to the CIC’s vision of business, academic, and government collaboration to drive positive change. I look forward to seeing how he and the team continue delivering innovative, cost-effective solutions because the Air Force, and our country are better for it.
Kevin Nolten is president of the Cyber Innovation Center (CIC). Located in Bossier City, Louisiana, CIC is the anchor of the 3,000-acre National Cyber Research Park and serves as the catalyst for the development and expansion of a knowledge-based workforce throughout the region. As a 501c3 not-for-profit corporation, CIC fosters collaboration among its partners and accelerates technology, research, and development.