Giles Walger: From Marine Corps to OODAx & Fast-Tracking Dual-Use Tech

Welcome back to GovCon Unscripted! In this episode, Chelsea sits down with Giles Walger, CEO of OODAx, who transitioned from 20 years in the Marine Corps to founding a startup that helps dual-use tech companies fast-track federal contracting.From interoperability challenges in uniform to helping pre-Series A founders navigate federal markets, Giles shares candid lessons on accelerating acquisition cycles, building strategic partnerships, and supporting warfighters with cutting-edge solutions.On this episode, we discuss:Transitioning from 20 years of MarGiles Walger: From Marine Corps to OODAx & Fast-Tracking Dual-Use Techine Corps service into entrepreneurshipHow OODAx helps pre-Series A companies break into GovCon fasterThe importance of market research, Sources Sought, and RFIsWhy veterans bring unique strengths to entrepreneurship, but need “business language”National security urgency and why peer threats are already hereTimestamps:[02:09] - Giles’ background: Marine Corps to AWS to founding OODAx[04:03] - OODAx’s mission: accelerating contracting for pre-Series A companies[05:00] - Interoperability challenges and navigating acquisition in uniform[12:08] - Transition struggles: avoiding GovCon, then jumping back in[17:25] - Continuous learning: programs like APFIT and acquisition insights[18:34] - Why veterans are ready for entrepreneurship (with a caveat)[22:55] - Industry challenges: compliance, ITAR/EAR, ATOs, and BD gaps[29:08] - National security urgency: peer threats, not “near-peer”[33:04] - Future collaboration and referral partnership with Chelsea🎧 Listen now on:🔹 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/govcon-unscripted/id1766384482🔹 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1NL0kFAvmgECLTJpUZYNHyLike and follow us:🔹 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GovConUnscriptedUS🔹 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/govconunscriptedpodcast/🔹 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/govcon-unscripted/posts/🔹 JOIN OUR #govcon #community: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14618490/New to GovCon? Here's a guide for you:https://share.hsforms.com/288nO18bsRCCmdJZL66pClwbzmvxLinks and Resources:• Chelsea’s LinkedIn Profile• Giles Walger’s LinkedIn Profile• OODAx Website