Matt Etheridge, Corporate Ventures at Army Applications Laboratory (AAL), connects innovative solutions with Army problem stakeholders. In this role, Matt uses his deep understanding of tactical and strategic Army requirements to seek out great technology, and help companies enter and navigate the defense innovation ecosystem. Most recently, Matt served as Deputy Director of Strategy and Operations for Army Futures Command, where he synchronized long-range requirements, research & development, analytic capabilities, and operational experimentation to deliver future capabilities to our Army faster. During his 20+ year career, Matt led infantry formations from the platoon to battalion level, in both training and combat, serving four tours between Iraq and Afghanistan. He also served on the personal staffs of several Senior Army leaders across both operational and innovation focused commands, assisting in their strategic thinking and messaging. Matt is a graduate of the Army’s Command and General Staff College and Army Ranger School. He holds a Masters in Public Administration from Central Michigan University and Bachelors in History from the Missouri University of Science and Technology.