Has diverse background involving business, marketing, defense, R&D and federal acquisition program management. Previously, from August 2009-August 2012, was deputy assistant secretary of the Navy, working on acquisition and R&D programs. Portfolio, roughly $55 billion annually, included expeditionary systems for the Marine Corps and the Navy, such as ground combat vehicles, body armor, biometrics, counter IED, and other systems; naval R&D programs; urgent needs; and naval logistics and sustainment. Had lead for key joint programs during wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, including MRAP and counter radio-controlled IED programs. Served as a member of the Navy's Task Force Climate Change; set policy for the department’s Marine Mammals Program; was responsible for annual S&T awards. From 1996-2009, was president of Detter and Associates, LLC. From 1994-96, served as special assistant to the U.S. Ambassador to Saudi Arabia; later served in the legislative affairs division of the USAID, working on Near East programs. Was director of federal relations for the International Council of Shopping Centers. Worked in senior positions in the U.S. Senate and the House of Representatives, working on appropriations, defense, foreign policy, trade, health care and education. Served as a defense analyst for the Congressional Research Service. Has worked extensively with the news media, as press secretary and as journalist.Currently serves as a trustee of Code of Support Foundation; previously, served on board of the Virginia Military Institute; board of advisors of TriCor Industries; Army Science Board. Has worked closely with the Air Force and with NATO. Active in local community, holds B.A. degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.