Kenny Whitesell
Vice President, INDOPAC Strategy and Growth, Parsons Corp.
Kenny Whitesell’s biggest achievement since arriving on Oahu has been the growth and recognition of Parsons and its capabilities in INDOPACOM. Parsons has rapidly gained traction within the military, military support and contractor communities on the island, strengthening the connection between the company’s name and its products. Its physical presence — and growing recognition — demonstrate Parsons’ commitment to this consequential theater.
Parsons’ focus on process improvement isn’t just a boilerplate statement. It shows up in CPAR reports and in conversations with clients. Employees and subcontractors understand the need to eliminate waste, update outdated procedures and accelerate new technology. That mindset drives the work and energizes the team — no “business as usual” at Parsons.
President of Defense and Intelligence Mike Kushin said Whitesell’s deep understanding of naval aviation strategy and modernization, along with his insights into maritime security and joint operations, has been pivotal in shaping Parsons’ strategic initiatives in the Indo-Pacific.
“Through his experience, drawn from his distinguished career in the Navy, he embodies a forward-thinking approach that is essential for navigating the unique complexities of our strategic landscape in this critical region,” Kushin added. “His commitment to enhancing defense capabilities and fostering innovation makes him a key asset not only to Parsons but also to our nation’s security.”
Why Watch
In 2025, Parsons is focused on INDOPACOM’s warfighting requirements and those of its components. The company is supporting these needs across all sectors — from critical infrastructure and engineered systems to defense and intelligence. This broad scope provides a comprehensive view of the total INDOPACOM mission, and Parsons’ depth in program and project management gives it the credibility to execute for clients.
“Parsons’ innovations and capabilities are allowing us to support Admiral Paparo’s ‘operate at the speed of combat, not at the speed of committee,'” Whitesell said. “As the former Deputy U.S. Pacific Fleet, I’m confident Parsons is in the far left lane of this journey.”
Fun Fact: Whitesell enjoys Hawaii’s hiking trails, but despite logging more than 4,000 hours and 1,000 arrested landings as a naval aviator, he admits he’s afraid of heights.