Debra Wada is a visionary, transformational leader, recognized for her ability to inspire and motivate others through dynamic leadership.  Debra’s career spans federal government and private sector experience.  As a result, she is an expert in identifying the best approaches to align organizational goals and objectives to government agencies’ requirements and initiatives.  During her tenure in the Department of Defense, Debra was known for her ability to bring stakeholders together to develop and implement sensitive personnel policies, such a religious accommodation and transgender service. She also assessed current technologies to improve internal processes and programs to increase efficiencies.  Debra is an accomplished life-long public servant who now assists companies and organizations in engaging successfully with the Federal government, particularly within the national security field.

Debra currently serves as Vice-Chair, Military Service on the National Commission on Military, National and Public Service. The Congressionally established commission was directed to assess and recommend ways to increase the numbers of Americans who serve in military, national and public sectors; as well the future of the Selective Service System. Debra leads the review of the Selective Service System.

Prior to the Commission, Debra was the Assistant Secretary for Manpower & Reserve Affairs for the United States Army. Appointed by President Obama, Debra was responsible for all personnel issues affecting military, civilians and contractors, as well as training and readiness policies. She had oversight of over 1.5 million people and a budget of over $80 billion. Her responsibilities also included programs that supported Army families and dependents, including health care.

Debra spent more than 25 years working in the U.S. Congress, including over a decade of experience on the House Armed Services Committee, culminating in her role as the Deputy Staff Director.