The Intelligence and National Security Alliance (INSA) will hold its 3rd annual Achievement Awards Ceremony Thursday, December 6th, at the Hyatt Regency Washington on Capitol Hill. The ceremony will honor six young professionals in the intelligence and national security sectors for their professional contribution to the community.
The ceremony’s keynote speaker will be Letitia A. Long, Director of the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA), and the event will be held from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., with registration closing November 29th.
WashingtonExec got a chance to chat with the award recipients as they told us about their nomination, what it means to them, their mission and more.
Today’s participant is Matthew Matechik, Frontline Solutions, a Division of ASI Government, recipient of the Edwin H. Land Industry Award.
WashingtonExec: Did you know you were nominated for the award, or was it a surprise?
Matthew Matechik: Yes, I was aware of my nomination.
WashingtonExec: How would you describe your mission?
Matthew Matechik: I provide written intelligence products for my client, the Department of Defense (DoD).
WashingtonExec: Finish the sentence: The best part of about my job is…
Matthew Matechik: Being embedded with my client and contributing to a mission that has real-world impact.
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Knowing that some of my products are relied upon by policy makers and military commands is rewarding and inspires me to perform my best.”
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WashingtonExec: Could you name an aspect of your job that you did not expect when you were first brought on?
Matthew Matechik: I did not expect to meet the sort of people I have had the privilege of working alongside. I had this idea that everyone in national security was intense, impersonal, and shrouded in mystery. I quickly learned that the profession was full of Americans just like any other; the stereotype was shattered. They are approachable individuals with families, friends, commitments and unique interests. They came from all sorts of different backgrounds and are all bound by their dedication to service.
WashingtonExec: Who is someone you admire?
Matthew Matechik: My little brother Chris Matechik. He has an unquenchable thirst for knowledge and an incredible ability to apply everything he learns to his passion for living.
WashingtonExec: What is something you are most proud of, personally?
Matthew Matechik: That in March of next year, I’ll be marrying the love of my life.
WashingtonExec: What organizations are you involved with outside of work?
Matthew Matechik: Most of my time outside the office is spent at the University of Baltimore School of Law, where I am studying for my J.D. at night. When I find free time, I am involved with The Seminole Club of Baltimore, the local alumni organization of my alma mater, Florida State University. I help organize club events during football season. Go ‘Noles!
WashingtonExec: What is your favorite intelligence movie or book?
Matthew Matechik: Red Storm Rising by Tom Clancy.
