Audra Upchurch
Interim Chief Executive Officer, CTEC
Audra Upchurch’s biggest recent achievement was guiding the team through multiple transitions and pivots this year, including new contract starts, unexpected contract changes, leadership shifts and government shutdowns.
Throughout these changes, her team stayed focused on supporting clients and the federal missions they serve.
As federal priorities shifted under a new administration, Upchurch said CTEC leaned into its long-standing strength in emerging technologies and training.
“Our team quickly pivoted when the FAR overhaul was released to ensure that our Defense Acquisition University training team and our government-focused acquisition specialists were aligned with the updates and implementing the new guidance and processes,” she said.
CTEC also refreshed its training materials to ensure clients had accurate, up-to-date tools for long-term success. The company applied its expertise to develop mission-focused training that helps federal agencies equip staff to better understand technology and how systems support day-to-day operations, positioning technology as a partner in performance rather than a replacement for expertise.
Why Watch
Looking ahead, Upchurch and her team are focused on strengthening and expanding CTEC’s core capabilities in IT modernization, data optimization and workforce development and training. Federal agencies face growing pressure to expand training so employees can effectively use, trust and adopt new technologies embedded in daily operations.
CTEC’s combined technology and training expertise positions the company to prepare the next generation of federal workers with the skills and tools needed to adapt and perform as government operations continue to evolve.
“The past year has been extraordinarily dynamic, and I am very excited for CTEC as we move into 2026,” Upchurch said. “We are looking forward to supporting the federal government as it continues to evolve to streamline processes and provide efficient solutions for the country. Across government and industry, our most valuable resource is our team and it’s our responsibility to continue to support, enhance expertise, and provide them the best tools for mission success.”
Fun fact: Upchurch lives in western Loudoun on five acres with two horses, two alpacas, three goats and a rotating cast of guinea hens and chickens. She also loves football — but only Virginia Tech football.