Huntsville-based defense and intelligence executive Alec M. Bierbauer has been appointed to the U.S. Department of War’s newly created Science, Technology and Innovation Board, joining a national panel tasked with advising the department on emerging technologies, defense innovation and national security priorities.
The appointment was announced this week as part of the second round of selections for the new advisory board, which was created through the merger of the Defense Innovation Board and the Defense Science Board. Defense officials said the consolidated board is intended to streamline innovation recommendations and accelerate technology development for the military.
Bierbauer serves as chief executive officer of Huntsville-based Blackrock Strategy LLC, a defense and national security consulting firm specializing in global risk management, intelligence operations, autonomous technologies and defense research.
According to the Department of War, the Science, Technology and Innovation Board will immediately begin work on congressionally mandated initiatives tied to the Reagan Test Site at Kwajalein Atoll, along with efforts to improve and secure software delivery systems across the department.
Defense officials said board members were selected for their expertise in science, technology, defense and private-sector innovation.
Bierbauer has worked in counterterrorism and counterintelligence operations since 1989, including service in both the U.S. Army and the CIA. His background includes intelligence collection, risk mitigation, autonomous technology development and operations in complex international environments.
The Huntsville appointment further highlights North Alabama’s growing influence in national defense and advanced technology initiatives tied to Redstone Arsenal and the region’s aerospace and intelligence sectors.
Another board appointee with North Alabama ties is Dr. Gary D. Butler, founder and CEO of Camgian Corporation, an artificial intelligence and defense technology company that recently expanded with an office in Huntsville. Camgian develops AI-enabled software and defense systems supporting missile defense, air defense and counter-drone operations connected to missions at Redstone Arsenal.
The Science, Technology and Innovation Board now includes 33 members from across the defense, technology, research and national security sectors.
