Ms. Kathleen is a senior executive with over 40 years of national and international experience in strategic planning, marketing, and public relations, working with global business and government organizations. As the executive responsible for DWPA corporate engagements and the product and technology segment, she is a highly motivated, results-driven leader with deep expertise in the information technology community. Her ability to identify and capitalize on business opportunities, lead high-performing teams, and drive measurable results makes her an invaluable resource for clients.

Ms. Cowles leads initiatives that foster collaboration between industry innovators and U.S. government (USG) stakeholders. Future USG investment requires a deep understanding of the technology landscape, the translation of innovation needs, and the ability to identify business opportunities. She works with clients who are leaders and key contributors in cutting-edge technologies, platforms, and solutions, helping them establish or expand their innovation presence within the USG.

Ms. Cowles also spent 10 years abroad in Kenya, Egypt, and Hungary, working with the U.S. State Department and U.S. Agency for International Development to advance U.S. business interests.

She is a graduate of the University of Maryland and remains actively involved in the University’s alumni and mentoring programs.

With a deep commitment to volunteerism, Ms. Cowles is a Past President of AFCEA Bethesda and a longtime AFCEA International board member, where she has served in various committee and leadership roles. She is a recipient of the AFCEA 2021 and 2023 Medal of Merit and the AFCEA 2016 Chairman’s Award. She also led the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) AI Subcommittee under the Communications and Technology Committee. Additionally, she is a former Board Member of the Industry Advisory Council (IAC) and a graduate of the Partners Program, having held leadership roles in the Executive Leadership Conference and ELC Technology Innovation programs.



Ms. Kathleen is a two-time Federal 100 Winner. She founded Junior Achievement International in Hungary (serving as Founder and President), played a key role in establishing the American International School of Budapest (as Board Chairman and Founding Member), and was honored with the U.S. State Department Volunteer of the Year Award.