Chris Ford

Chris Ford is a highly accomplished executive with a 20-year tenure in the Air Force and a track record of entrepreneurial leadership. He currently serves as the CEO at Stop Soldier Suicide, Inc., dedicated to addressing mental health challenges within the veteran community through innovative solutions and compassionate leadership.

With a focus on strategic leadership and innovation, Chris has played a crucial role at Stop Soldier Suicide by implementing cutting-edge data analytics and trauma-aware suicide prevention protocols. His initiatives have accelerated suicide rate parity goals, potentially saving thousands of lives. He has also been instrumental in establishing key partnerships and launching suicide prevention initiatives like Face The Fight™ with USAA.

Under Chris's leadership, Stop Soldier Suicide has experienced substantial growth, increasing annual revenue from $2.2M to $18M. He led the development of a patent-pending ML/AI technology for suicide risk detection, winning significant awards like the VA's Mission Daybreak Grand Prize.

Chris Ford's operational experience includes founding the National Association of Veteran-Serving Organizations (NAVSO) and optimizing veteran services. His roles at the Joint Chiefs of Staff involved directing community outreach and security operations, utilizing Lean Six Sigma methodologies to enhance national security and veteran services.

A highly educated professional, Chris has pursued advanced degrees in National Security Studies, Criminal Justice, and Biology from reputable institutions, including the Naval Postgraduate School, FBI National Academy, and University of South Carolina.

Having held key positions at organizations like USAA and STOP THE TRAFFIK Group, Chris brings a wealth of experience in strategic innovation and leadership to his current role at Stop Soldier Suicide. He is keen on connecting with like-minded individuals passionate about mental health, veteran affairs, and community service to drive impactful change.

Chris Ford's professional journey is marked by a strong emphasis on leadership, veteran support, mental health awareness, innovation, strategic partnerships, veteran affairs, entrepreneurship, community activism, and suicide prevention.

Views expressed are Chris Ford's own.