Ep. 167 From Marine to Founder: Giles Walger on Building a Defense Tech Company That Solves Real Warfighter Problems

In this episode of TheMilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins sits down with Giles Walger, Founder of OODAx, and United States Marine Corps veteran. Giles shares how his transition from the Marine Corps to Amazon’s Pathways program - and later to AWS Mission Engineering - equipped him with the tools, mindset, and network needed to thrive in the private sector and ultimately launch his own company.

Giles dives into how his experience solving complex warfighter problems at AWS shaped his entrepreneurial path, giving him a “real-world MBA” in product-market fit, customer discovery, and navigating the complexities of government acquisition. He explains how OODAx helps emerging defense tech companies bridge the gap between innovation and the Department of Defense by accelerating access, aligning with mission needs, and overcoming bureaucratic hurdles.

The conversation also unpacks the realities of transitioning out of the military, the importance of starting over with humility, and why veterans are uniquely positioned to succeed in high-impact industries like defense tech and venture-backed startups.

Listeners will gain insight into:

• How military experience translates into success in corporate and startup environments
• The “three C’s” (care, conviction, competence) and why they matter in any career
• What makes Amazon and AWS valuable stepping stones for veterans entering tech
• How to navigate the defense tech ecosystem and avoid common pitfalls
• The concept of “product-mission-system fit” and why it’s critical for government sales
• Key questions to evaluate startups before joining them
• How to break into defense tech, venture capital, or private equity-backed companies
• The importance of mentorship, networking, and paying it forward

Giles also shares practical resources - including podcasts, books, and strategies - for veterans looking to break into defense tech, along with candid advice on choosing the right company and building a meaningful post-service career.

Whether you’re transitioning out of the military, considering entrepreneurship, or looking to enter the defense innovation space, this episode offers actionable insights and a clear roadmap for success.

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