Ryan Connell is the Strategic Operations Chief in the Acquisition Directorate of the Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Office. In this role, he is charged with building novel contracting pathways, AI Tools for Acquisition, and AI acquisition education.

Mr. Connell joined CDAO in 2024. He previously supported the congressionally mandated Commercial Item Group, focused on DoD contract strategy for the integration of commercial technology, leveraging commercial business practices, and removing barriers to entry for nontraditional defense contractors

Mr. Connell has 15 years of Defense acquisition experience including cost estimating, pricing, negotiation, cost analysis, & compliance. Ryan has his MBA, DAWIA certifications in both contracting and program management, is on NCMA Boston’s Board of Directors, and has previously supported Defense Entrepreneur Forum, and ACFEA in leadership roles.