Bess Dopkeen, Senior Advisor to the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering

Building the Base

DoD Minseries : Maintaining The Edge Research and Engineering; Part 1 of 4

In this episode of Building the Base, Lauren Bedula and Hondo Geurts sit down with Bess Dopkeen, Senior Advisor to the Under Secretary of Defense for Research & Engineering (DoD R&E). Broadcasting live from the Pentagon, this conversation launches a new miniseries focused on the groundbreaking work of DoD R&E. Bess shares her unique journey to the Pentagon, insights into the office's major initiatives—including biomanufacturing, microelectronics, and strategic capital—and the innovative programs shaping the future of defense. She also provides a behind-the-scenes look at what the DoD is doing to accelerate development, iterate faster, and strengthen the country’s technological capabilities.

Key Takeaways:

1. Biomanufacturing Innovation: Over $1 billion allocated to revolutionize biomanufacturing and integrate biotechnology into defense.

2. Microelectronics Focus: $2 billion investment to advance microelectronics R&D, critical for defense strategies.

3. Strategic Capital: New financial tools like loans and guarantees to drive innovation in non-traditional sectors.

4. Faster Tech Deployment: DoD is accelerating tech development by partnering with both traditional and non-traditional contractors.

5. Bess Dopkeen's Journey: Bess shares her 19-year career path from contractor to Senior Advisor at the Pentagon.