Hon. Michael Dodd

The Honorable Michael “Mike” Dodd serves as the Assistant Secretary of War for Critical Technologies (ASW(CT)) in the Office of the Under Secretary of War for Research and Engineering (USW(R&E)).

As ASW(CT), Dodd advises the USW(R&E) on all matters related to critical technologies and programs that enable the Department’s strategic guidance. This responsibility extends to the development of strategies and roadmaps for the Department’s research, development, acquisition, and transition of critical technologies to create asymmetric advantages and military superiority for the Nation.

Dodd currently oversees three Critical Technology Areas – Contested Logistics (LOG), Quantum Battlefield Information Dominance (QBID), and Scaled Directed Energy (SCADE) – as well as several enabling programs, including Microelectronics, Space Technology, Nuclear Command, Control & Communications, Advanced Computing & Software, and Anomalous Health Incidents.

Additionally, Dodd maintains R&E’s International Engagement portfolio and serves as the U.S. representative on the NATO DIANA Board of Directors.

Dodd is a proud retired Mustang Marine Corps Infantry Officer, having served with distinction in the Corps for 11 years. He held leadership roles as a Rifle Platoon Commander, Rifle Company Executive Officer, Officer in Charge for the 1st Marine Division Scout Sniper School, and Operations Officer for the 1st Marine Reconnaissance Company before service-related injuries led to his early retirement.

After his retirement from the Marine Corps, Dodd worked in the defense and finance industries for over 25 years, advising a wide array of companies on all facets of business strategy including planning, development, management, marketing, directorship, and private capital markets. He also previous served as the acting Deputy Director for the Defense Innovation Unit.

In March 2025, Dodd was nominated by President Trump to serve as the ASW(CT), and he was confirmed by the Senate on Sept. 18, 2025.