Darren Bemis is a seasoned strategic leader, retired Air Force Colonel, and accomplished operations director with over 29 years of distinguished service in military aviation, logistics, and defense industry engagement. As Director of Business Development for USAF Programs at Adams Communication & Engineering Technology (ACET), Darren leverages deep expertise in Air Force operations, DoD procurement, and aircraft sustainment to deliver innovative, mission‑aligned solutions that support warfighter readiness and operational excellence.

Throughout his military career, Darren demonstrated a proven ability to lead and optimize complex aircraft maintenance and sustainment operations. As Maintenance Group Commander for the Texas Air National Guard, he directed a 4,500‑hour annual flying program and managed a diverse fleet of F‑16 aircraft valued at over $664 million, achieving consistently high operational readiness rates and reinforcing a culture of safety, discipline, and performance excellence.

In addition to his operational accomplishments, Darren has extensive experience in strategic engagement and crisis response. He represented the Air National Guard and the 149th Fighter Wing on high‑profile civic and defense initiatives, including serving as a key contributor to the City of San Antonio’s Military Transformation Task Force. In this role, he briefed the City Council and collaborated with federal and local stakeholders to support joint base expansion and foster strong military‑community partnerships.

Darren also played a pivotal role in State of Texas crisis-response efforts, including mobilization and coordination of Air National Guard support for seven hurricane relief operations and the COVID‑19 pandemic, ensuring rapid mobilization of personnel and resources to protect lives and provide humanitarian relief. Additionally, he was instrumental in advancing additive manufacturing capabilities within the Air Force, partnering with the Air Force Research Laboratory, the F‑16 Program Office, and the Texas Military Department to establish an Additive Manufacturing Center of Excellence — integrating advanced 3D printing technologies into sustainment operations.

In his role with ACET, Darren applies this unique blend of operational leadership, technical knowledge, and deep understanding of Air Force priorities to build strong relationships, align ACET’s capabilities with customer needs, and deliver value‑driven outcomes for the warfighter.

Darren holds a Master of Military Operational Art and Science and has completed interagency and joint training through the Air War College and Command and General Staff College, where he worked alongside military, civilian, and international partners on global strategic and operational planning.