Retired U.S. Air Force Colonel Sean Frisbee is an entrepreneur and expert in the national defense industry. A seasoned executive with over 30 years of experience leading Air Force organizations, small-business defense industry companies, and a not-for-profit corporation, Sean leverages his knowledge and network to drive innovative national security solutions.

As founder and president of Vertx Partners, Sean spearheads efforts focused on interdisciplinary collaboration and economic recovery in the Mountain State and across Appalachia. Fundamental to Sean’s strategy is connecting unconventional and distinct entities to fuel innovative national security efforts.

Sean previously served as eighth President & CEO of the 147-year-old West Virginia University Alumni Association, a not-for-profit corporation serving over 220,000 graduates of West Virginia University. During his Air Force career, he led cutting edge acquisition programs such as the $66B F-22 stealth fighter weapon system program as well as serving in multiple operations including his leading role in rebuilding the Iraqi Air Force as part of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM. Additionally, Sean held successive executive positions as the Vice-President of AME Unmanned Air Systems, Inc., Chairman of Leucadia Engineering, LLC, and President of IES Global, Inc.

Sean holds a bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering from West Virginia University, a master’s degree from Embry Riddle Aeronautical University, and two master’s degrees from Air University. He is a graduate of the Air Force's prestigious School of Advanced Air and Space Studies and a former National Defense Fellow. Lastly, he is an elected member of the Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Academy of Distinguished Alumni at West Virginia University.