From Concept to Capability: How STRATFI & TACFI are Accelerating AFWERX & SpaceWERX Successes

Melissa Garmoe is a proven defense acquisition leader with over 25 years of experience in contracting, policy, and technology development. She specializes in transitioning emerging technologies—particularly in space systems—into operational capabilities, with deep expertise in SBIR, STTR, and agile acquisition. As the SpaceWERX Accelerate Branch Chief, Melissa manages a $2.2 billion portfolio of space investments and a robust toolkit of innovation programs that support the U.S. Space Force mission. She leads cross-sector collaboration with industry, academia, and government to scale dual-use technologies and ensure rapid, effective transition into fielded capabilities. Her career reflects a strong commitment to innovation, responsive acquisition, and advancing national defense priorities. Melissa holds an MBA from Webster University and an MS in Resourcing National Strategy from the Eisenhower School, and is certified at the advanced level in Contracting and Program Management by the Defense Acquisition University.

Marty Roodettes joined AFWERX Ventures in 2022. During his time at AFWERX he has served as a Specific Topic SBIR Program Manager and a STRATFI/TACFI Program Manager. Prior to joining AFWERX Marty was an active duty Air Force officer for 21 years.

Jessica Walsh is the founder and CEO of Rx Bandz, a seasoned entrepreneur with decades of experience turning transformative technologies into real-world solutions. At Rx Bandz, she leads a world-class team in the development of a platform of ultra-compact, rugged auto-injectors designed to deliver life-saving medications in high-stress, resource-limited environments. Backed by multiple U.S. Department of Defense contracts, Rx Bandz created MiniJect, the world’s smallest auto-injector, engineered for rapid use on the battlefield, in ambulances, and homes. With strong military support, Jessica and her team are advancing a portfolio of novel formulations while also licensing the platform to pharmaceutical partners seeking to improve access, compliance, and outcomes. Jessica leads a mission-driven team dedicated to reshaping how critical medications are delivered—ensuring they can be administered by anyone, anytime, anywhere, when every second counts.

Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Cognitive Space, a Texas based startup which is redefining how space assets are orchestrated through AI for national security in the US and abroad. Guy has two decades of experience in the space industry, including award-winning work on the NASA Orion program with safety critical communication software, building advanced simulation environments for astronaut training, guidance software for launch vehicles and automation systems. In his capacity as CEO, he has led the adoption of Cognitive Space’s AI capabilities into six US Government agencies, including the orchestration of proliferated space vehicles for missile defense and resilient communications for the Department of Defense and the Intelligence Community.

Cedric received his PhD in Biomedical Engineering exploring stimuli-responsive, 3D-printable polymers toward artificial muscle applications. He then completed a PostDoc at the Air Force Research Lab developing material systems from bulk photo alignment of liquid crystalline polymers to embedded logic within shape-morphing material systems. Currently, he works at Electroninks as a Senior Scientist exploring and integrating EI’s conductive inks within the defense and commercial sectors.

Senior Vice President and Head of Engineering at DroneSense, where he leads the development of mission-critical drone software solutions for public safety, government, and critical infrastructure. With over 30 years of experience in software architecture, product management, and system development, Eric has worked across both defense and commercial sectors, including roles at Harris Corporation, Raytheon, Spiceworks, and multiple startups. He is the inventor of 11 U.S. patents, author of a software development book, and has presented at various technical and industry conferences. Eric holds a B.S. and M.S. in Computer Science from Florida Tech and is known for building collaborative, user-focused engineering teams that deliver intuitive and innovative products.

Mr. Gardner was the former Regulatory, Quality, Product Development, Commercialization and Medical Technology (SME) subject matter expert for the 59th MDW Science and Technology Office USAF at Lackland AFB in San Antonio and Regulatory and Rapid Technology Transition SME at AF Medical Support Agency (now AFMRA). Mr. Gardner is a Lecturer/Educator on Medical Intellectual Property, Product Development, Acquisition Investment, Regulatory Affairs for medical technologies (FDA/DEA) and Cooperative Research and Development Agreements (CRADAs). Currently a Venture Partner at Stoney Lonesome Group and Vice President at Rx Bandz for Military Affairs and Program Manager for 2 Phase III contracts with the Air Force 711th HPW Advance Development group at Wright-Patterson AFB.