David Chipman, chief operating officer of Xator Corp. and a past member of WashingtonExec, passed away March 17 at age 58.
Chipman worked for more than 35 years in IT consulting, and joined Xator Corp. in October 2018 from Science Applications International Corp., where he served as senior vice president for nearly 10 years.
He also held executive leadership positions at Apptis as senior vice president and deputy health solutions sector manager, at Identix as vice president of professional services, and at CommerceOne as vice president of operations.
Chipman’s career began in 1984 at Electronic Data Systems, where he spent 16 years and rose to senior program director and consultant systems engineer.
“Dave was a great American, loyal friend and valued coworker,” said Amy Benson, vice president of government affairs at SAIC. “It is heartbreaking to me to think I won’t see his name pop up on my phone in the future. He will be missed and is deserving of a fine tribute.”
Chipman was born in Kenosha, Wisconsin, and raised in Mendham, New Jersey. He attended James Madison University and earned a bachelor’s degree in management information systems with a minor in economics.
While in executive leadership roles, Chipman was also a senior adviser to the Homeland Security Council and served on the JMU College of Integrated Science and Engineering executive advisory board. He also loved the outdoors, and impacted many with his good humor and fighting spirit, according to his obituary.
“Dave was a well-respected leader and member of the GovCon and homeland security markets,” said Greg Baroni, chairman and CEO of Attain. “He was witty and engaging, and always ready with a funny story. Dave’s leadership, passion and humor will be sorely missed by many, and our thoughts and prayers are with the Chipman family during this difficult time.”
Among many, Chipman is survived by his wife of 32 years, Tammy, and his sons Derek and Kyle.
Memorial contributions can be made to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, and a memorial tree in memory of Chipman can be planted by visiting the family’s Tribute Store.