The finalists for WashingtonExec’s 2024 Pinnacle Awards were announced Sept. 20, and we’ll be highlighting some of them until the event takes place live, in-person Nov. 21.
Next is Jimmy Jenkins, president of the Armed Forces Portfolio at BlueHalo, and finalist in the DoD Executive of the Year, Private Company, category. Here, he talks about recent achievements, shares career advice and more.
What were your key achievements in 2024?
In 2024, my key achievements have been instrumental in driving BlueHalo’s success. One of the most significant milestones was securing our entry into the missile business by being down selected for the Next Generation Counter Uncrewed Aerial Systems Missile program. This was a major step in expanding BlueHalo’s capabilities in a critical defense sector.
Additionally, I’ve been deeply committed to building and maintaining a strong company culture, which has kept our attrition rates well below the market average and helped us earn recognition as an exceptional place to work. I also played a central role in successfully integrating new companies into BlueHalo, ensuring smooth transitions that have strengthened our overall growth. Finally, these efforts have positioned us to exceed both our revenue and profit goals for the year.
What are your primary focus areas moving forward, and why are they critical to the mission?
My primary focus moving forward is to continue to position us as the premier provider of Counter UAS (Uncrewed Aerial Systems) solutions for our nation. Drones have become one of the most disruptive and rapidly evolving threats in modern times, and I am committed to ensuring that we provide layered, cutting-edge capabilities to protect our military services, allies, and critical missions. This is essential to maintaining national security, safeguarding our interests, and staying ahead of emerging threats in the defense landscape.
What’s your best career advice for someone looking to follow in your footsteps?
My best career advice is to always create options for yourself. Never stop learning — whether it’s improving your leadership skills, expanding your business knowledge, or staying on top of the latest technologies in your field. This continual growth gives you the ability to pivot when new and exciting opportunities arise, allowing you to remain adaptable and prepared for whatever comes next. By building these options, you set yourself up for long-term success and career flexibility.