In this episode of Beyond Strategy, we sit down with Dennis Kelly, a seasoned executive and current CEO of Tyto Athene, a federal systems integrator delivering mission-focused digital transformation solutions across defense, intelligence, space, and public safety. With over three decades of experience and a leadership track record spanning multiple high-growth, private equity-backed firms, Dennis brings a rare depth of insight to the evolving landscape of government contracting.

Under Dennis’s leadership, Tyto Athene has aggressively expanded its capabilities through four strategic acquisitions in under two years - StackArmor, Microtel, MindPoint Group, and Key Solutions Inc. bringing nearly 500 new team members into the fold and enhancing Tyto’s reach in AI/ML, cybersecurity, and capture strategy.

In this episode, Dennis shares:

• His core leadership principles and how his Navy experience continues to shape his executive style
• Insights on navigating private equity partnerships, including his long-standing relationship with Arlington Capital
• Partners and previous leadership with Bluestone Investment Partners
• The art and discipline of serial acquisitions, including how to integrate talent, culture, and technology while maintaining mission alignment
• Why mid-market firms like Tyto are well positioned in a procurement environment prioritizing speed, agility, and innovation
• His vision for Tyto Athene’s growth strategy, balancing further
• M&A with organic capability expansion

From boardroom leadership to national security support, Dennis reflects on the lessons he’s learned leading across multiple portfolios and shares guidance for current and aspiring GovCon executives operating in a fast-changing, high-stakes environment.

Whether you’re a CEO, investor, or operator in the federal space, this episode offers an unfiltered look at what it takes to scale, lead, and evolve in the modern government services market.

Beyond Strategy: Shana Cosgrove, Founder & CEO of Nyla Technology Solutions

In this episode of Beyond Strategy, we sit down with Shana Cosgrove, the visionary Founder and CEO of Nyla Technology Solutions—an award-winning federal contractor specializing AI engineering, data science, and software development for the U.S. Intelligence Community and Department of War.

With over 85% of Nyla’s team holding Top Secret security clearances, Shana has built a company uniquely equipped to tackle some of the nation’s most complex and classified missions. Recognized as an Inc. 5000 honoree and a 2025 ACG Growth Award winner for best emerging growth company, Nyla’s success reflects a powerful combination of mission focus, technical innovation, and cultural differentiation.

In this episode, Shana shares:

• The leadership philosophy that has guided her from startup founder to CEO in the high-stakes world of defense technology
• Her decision to launch Nyla after early career aspirations of climbing the corporate ladder
• How she built a company that thrives in the unique demands of the Intelligence Community
• How Nyla is leveraging its expertise in AI, cloud, and data to solve the government’s most urgent technology challenges
• Insights into talent acquisition and retention in a highly specialized, security-cleared market

Shana also opens up about the personal side of leadership—what keeps her up at night, how she balances mission and life, and the lesson she believes every entrepreneur should learn.

If you’re an aspiring founder, defense tech leader, or advocate for diversity in national security, this is a must-listen conversation with one of the boldest and most thoughtful voices in the federal contracting space.

In this episode of Beyond Strategy, we sit down with Gautam Ijoor, the dynamic Founder, President, and CEO of Alpha Omega, one of the fastest-growing federal technology services firms in the National Capital region. Since its founding in 2016, Alpha Omega has evolved into a mission-driven powerhouse—scaling from under $1 million in revenue to over $130 million in just seven years. Alpha Omega delivers cutting-edge services across Digital Modernization, Artificial Intelligence, and Cybersecurity, supporting clients such as the Department of State, DHS, USDA, TSA, NIH, and more. Under Gautam's leadership, the firm has been repeatedly recognized for growth and excellence, appearing on the Inc. 5000, Washington Technology Fast 50, and NOVA Chamber's Fantastic 50 lists.

In this episode, you'll hear Gautam discuss: The leadership philosophy that's guided him from startup founder to CEO of a multimillion-dollar enterprise. Early entrepreneurial experiences shaped his mindset on risk, culture, and strategy. The evolving landscape of federal contracting and emerging trends in AI and cyber, Alpha Omega's recent acquisitions of SeKon and Macro Solutions, and how M&A fits into a broader strategic roadmap. His unique talent acquisition and retention approach in a security-cleared, highly competitive environment. What's next for Alpha Omega as it expands into new capabilities and missions.

Whether you're a growth-stage founder, a seasoned executive, or just curious about what it takes to scale a GovCon business in today's landscape, this episode offers inspiration, practical insights, and a masterclass in mission-focused leadership.