Careers at Optics 1

Walt Kennedy retired from the US Army after 30 years. Throughout his time, he served as both an Aviator (Apache Attack Helicopter Pilot) and a Foreign Area Officer (FAO). He spent over half his career overseas working with partner militaries to increase their capabilities with equipment and training. These experiences allowed him to gain an intricate and vast understanding of the cultures and militaries of foreign countries.

At Optics 1, Walt is the Vice President of Business Development. He manages the Business Development/Sales and Marketing Team to capture and provide long-term solutions for Military and Law Enforcement here and abroad. He has been able to transfer his leadership and management skills, accountability, and vast experience with Foreign Military Sales (FMS) to his employment at Optics 1. In addition to this, his experience serving with the Army in various countries has enhanced his cultural awareness and influenced his approach to Business Development.

Walt shared with us that he feels supported and appreciated as a Veteran here at Optics 1 due to the strong Veteran support both inside and outside of the company. He is especially proud of our Veteran outreach programs and evens and how the company gets excited and rallies around them. Walt also cited this as a reason for choosing Optics 1 as an employer. He shared that the Senior Leadership Team has always recognized the military, both in the pride for the products we make and for the Veterans we employ.

Thank you for your service, Walt!