When discussing the skilled team at the Pacific Northwest Mission Acceleration Center (PNW MAC), Christopher Pavel proudly mentioned a group of former military members that resembled a formidable unit ready for battle:
- A former Navy C130 crew member.
- A Marine Corps helicopter commander.
- A tank crew member and purple heart recipient.
- A Marine Forces Special Operations Command amphibious recon member.
Although Pavel serves as the deputy director of PNW MAC and isn’t heading to a traditional battlefield, he is deeply engaged in a different kind of fight — one that supports both the military and companies working on innovative solutions for defense.
“Our team is here to assist everyone in the community in bridging defense requirements with industry technology,” Pavel explained. “Anyone can utilize our services to support the defense ecosystem in the greater Pacific Northwest. We consider ourselves fortunate to play this role.”
Located in Renton, Washington, PNW MAC aids innovators by offering mentorship and strategic connections to military partners. By aligning technology with defense priorities and understanding operational needs, the center helps accelerate deployment opportunities for companies in the defense sector.
Pavel joined PNW MAC in September of last year after a distinguished career spanning over two decades in the U.S. Air Force and the tech industry.
Originally hailing from the Tri-Cities in southeastern Washington, Pavel enlisted in the Air Force in 2002 with aspirations of exploring the world. His military journey led him to Malmstrom Air Force Base in Great Falls, Montana, just a short distance from his hometown.
During his time in the Air Force Security Forces, Pavel played a crucial role in securing nuclear intercontinental ballistic missiles at Malmstrom before transitioning to serve as an antiterrorism advisor. It was during this period that he began to recognize the potential of leveraging industry solutions to address complex military challenges.
After completing his active duty service, Pavel transitioned to the Montana Air National Guard, where he eventually trained as a cyber operator in a combat engineering squadron. His career brought him back to Washington, where he worked in a cyber role for the Western Air Defense Sector at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, laying the groundwork for his current position.
During his tenure, Pavel spearheaded an innovation program for the Washington State Air National Guard that involved all 41 commanders across the state. The program successfully raised a $17 million innovation portfolio and launched 28 projects, many of which were realized through collaborations with PNW MAC.
Transitioning out of the military, Pavel found PNW MAC to be a natural fit for his expertise and passion.
“I essentially went from performing the job in uniform to continuing the same work outside of uniform,” Pavel noted.
The Pacific Northwest region, with its thriving tech industry and numerous military installations, serves as a fertile ground for defense innovation. The area is witnessing the rise of several military tech startups, such as Overland AI and EdgeRunner AI, both featured in the GeekWire 200 list. Recent reports indicate a resurgence in tech companies’ engagement with the military, underscoring the increased interest in defense-related technologies.
PNW MAC offers various services, including two tech accelerators: the international NATO DIANA and an in-house Defense Technology Accelerator. Additionally, the center manages contracts tailored for the Navy and other branches of the military, acting as a facilitator for the Department of Defense.
Comprised predominantly of veterans with diverse military backgrounds, the PNW MAC team brings invaluable firsthand knowledge and practical insights into the field, enabling them to effectively navigate the intersection of defense and technology.
“The Department of Defense operates within a traditional framework, yet it requires constant evolution and innovation to address emerging threats,” Pavel remarked. “Having experience on both sides of the spectrum is incredibly beneficial. Understanding the challenges associated with technology implementation is truly invaluable.”
