The finalists for WashingtonExec’s Chief Officer Awards were announced April 8, and we’ll be highlighting some of them until the event takes place live, in-person June 4.
Next is Doug Wagoner, CEO of LMI, and a finalist in the CEO of the Year (Annual Revenue Greater than $500M) category. In this spotlight, he reflects on key achievements, offers advice for those following a similar path, shares current priorities and more.
What key achievements did you have in 2024/2025?
In 2024 and 2025, LMI solidified its role as a key technology partner to the federal government — helping agencies accelerate mission delivery with secure, scalable, and commercially inspired solutions. Our achievements reflect a deliberate strategy to meet evolving federal priorities head-on: improving speed to capability, advancing digital infrastructure, and delivering measurable outcomes.
Under my leadership, we focused on anticipating customer needs and investing in the technologies and talent to meet them. LMI’s unique approach — pairing deep federal mission expertise with pre-built platforms, GOTS solutions, and rapid prototyping — enabled us to respond quickly to complex challenges in areas like contested logistics, supply chain resilience, predictive maintenance, and enterprise AI adoption.
What are your primary focus areas going forward, and why are those so important to the mission?
Looking ahead, my focus is on accelerating mission outcomes through scalable, secure, and adaptable technology — delivered with the speed and agility federal agencies need in today’s dynamic environment. Our acquisition of JJR Solutions in 2024 reinforced this direction, expanding LMI’s capabilities in low-code/no-code development and cloud-based delivery across critical domains.
We’re focused on empowering our customers to move faster — from prototype to production — by reducing implementation timelines and streamlining deployment. This is especially important in mission areas where timely action is vital, such as space situational awareness, rapid technology fielding, weapon system acquisition, and veteran health.
What is your best career advice for those who want to follow in your footsteps?
I find it important to take on the hard, ‘dirty’ or less glamourous tasks, and turn them into something meaningful and value added that others may have missed.
Fun Fact: What is something about you that most people do not know?
I think the last time I was a finalist, I mentioned that I am a total and proud space nerd. Since then, I have purchased an additional meteorite that weighs over 20 pounds!