Speakers

Michael Holthe is currently performing the duties of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Science and Technology (ASD(S&T)) in the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering. A senior executive and nationally recognized expert in emerging defense technologies, he oversees policy, oversight, and strategic direction for the Department of Defense’s research enterprise, including the S&T workforce, laboratory infrastructure, and innovation programs such as Small Business Innovation Research and the Manufacturing Innovation Institutes.

Prior to this role, Mr. Holthe served as Principal Deputy ASD(S&T) and as the Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Enabling Technology, where he advised senior DoD leadership on modernization priorities spanning advanced computing, hypersonics, trusted AI, space, and nuclear delivery systems. He previously served as Director for Emerging Platforms and Weapons Technologies in OUSD(R&E), leading DoD-wide strategy in areas such as quantum science, biotechnology, and future wireless.

Earlier in his career, Mr. Holthe directed the Army’s lethality S&T portfolio, overseeing investments in long-range precision fires, missile defense, and directed energy systems. He also served in roles across PEO Soldier, the Army Budget Office, and the Natick Soldier Center as part of the Army Acquisition Fellowship. He has been instrumental in aligning research, development, and acquisition efforts to national security objectives.

Mr. Holthe is a member of the Army Acquisition Corps and a graduate of Saint Olaf College and Iowa State University. He has completed executive programs at the Naval Postgraduate School and the Federal Executive Institute and is a recipient of multiple civilian service awards, including the Order of Saint Maurice.