Douglas Schafer

Douglas Schafer is Vice President of Business Development at AIS. In this role, Schafer sets AIS’s growth vision and drives long-term strategy by aligning market expansion, opportunity capture and strategic investments with corporate objectives. He guides market expansion across the Department of War, United States Air Force (USAF), Intelligence Community and emerging federal sectors.

Prior to joining AIS, Schafer held executive positions across large and small businesses, with experience spanning strategic growth, business development, operations and program execution. He brings extensive research and development leadership experience from his 10 years with the Air Force Research Laboratory, where he progressed from Program Manager to Principal Cyber Adviser and served as the USAF representative to the OSD Cyber Community of Interest. Schafer developed and led cross-disciplinary and cross-organizational R&D portfolios focused on command and control, cyber, communications and embedded systems cybersecurity.

Schafer previously served on active duty and continues to serve in the USAF as a member of the 152nd Air Operations Group, New York Air National Guard. He has held roles including Information Warfare Division Chief, Squadron Commander and Director of Cyber Forces in two major theaters of operation.

Schafer holds a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, an MBA and a Master of Science in Cybersecurity and Policy. He has also completed military professional education at Air War College, Air Command and Staff College and Squadron Officer School. His certifications include Project Management Professional (PMP) and DAWIA Level 3.