Chad Buechel
Vice President & Division Manager, Defense Enterprise IT Modernization Division within the Digital Modernization Sector, Leidos
Most recently, Chad Buechel’s team stepped in to support the Defense Department’s goal of accelerating the migration of the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency’s IT network to the Defense Information Systems Agency’s modernized DODNet.
In less than 48 hours, they assembled a team and partnered with both DISA and DARPA to embark on a pivotal 80-day migration, proving the capabilities of DODNet and Leidos’ agility to fast-track migrations for other Defense Agencies and Field Activities. The teamwork and collaboration seen throughout the process has been described as nothing short of extraordinary, with each stakeholder — regardless of badge — stepping in to ensure mission success.
Delivering smarter outcomes that make government more efficient is core to the company’s mission. For example, Leidos protects mission-critical DOD data on “no-fail” networks essential to national security every day. The company saved the department over $645 million by identifying and implementing improvements in network cybersecurity, artificial intelligence operations and cloud use. Its work also increased network availability to 99.9% at no additional cost.
Bryan Jolly, senior vice president of digital modernization for Leidos’ DISA IT business area, described Buechel as a mission-driven leader who brings exceptional energy, focus and execution to one of the Defense Department’s most complex IT modernization efforts.
“Under his leadership, the Leidos team is accelerating the DES program and DODNet migration — delivering transformative capabilities that strengthen cybersecurity, enhance user experience and increase mission effectiveness across the Fourth Estate,” he said. “Chad’s ability to lead with vision while driving results makes him a standout leader and a key force shaping the future of defense IT.”
Why Watch
Buechel’s team is helping DISA consolidate the Fourth Estate’s agencies onto a common IT infrastructure through the Defense Enclave Services program. With the modernized DODNet, they are improving efficiency, enabling data-driven decisions and providing a secure, scalable network to keep agencies mission-ready. These capabilities allow users to protect and connect the warfighter while staying agile in a fast-changing environment.
Buechel said the Leidos DES program is a true team effort that brings together talent, innovation and mission focus to deliver a secure, modern and efficient IT environment for the Fourth Estate. He added that he’s proud of his team’s ability to move fast, think strategically and work closely with DISA and the DAFAs.
“Through DODNet, we’re not just consolidating infrastructure—we’re enabling the agility, resilience and scalability defense agencies need to accelerate decision making and support the warfighter in today’s dynamic threat landscape,” he said.
Fun Fact: Buechel was a college track and field athlete at Brown University. He still holds a school record for the steeplechase, a 3,000-meter race that combines running with obstacles, hurdles and water jumps. He was also a three-time All-Ivy Champion for indoor track — and is a die-hard Pittsburgh Steelers fan.