WASHINGTON, DC, September 18, 2026 – SMI is pleased to announce that Jason Thurman, who most recently served as acting chief of staff for the Pentagon’s Industrial Base Analysis and Sustainment (IBAS) program, has joined our Defense Industrial Base Practice Area as Director.
Thurman brings more than 15 years of experience in federal affairs and legislative strategy, with a focus on strengthening the armed forces and federal law enforcement agencies.
“Jason has played a key role in efforts to build and sustain a more robust defense industrial base, including shaping investment strategies to boost manufacturing and supply chain resilience,” said SMI CEO Bill McCann. “As a senior adviser in the Office of the Secretary of War, he developed acquisition plans to meet critical mission requirements and worked closely with Congress on defense authorization and appropriations bills. His insights and networks will enhance SMI clients’ ability to bolster the DIB.”
“I’m incredibly excited to join SMI and become part of a team with such a strong reputation for delivering results,” said Thurman. “Throughout my career, I’ve had the opportunity to work at the intersection of Congress and national security, and I’m looking forward to bringing that experience to SMI and helping our clients navigate an increasingly complex environment.”
“This is an important time for the defense industrial base,” Thurman added. “We must translate national priorities much more quickly into meaningful results that boost our industrial capacity, strengthen our military deterrent, and equip our troops with everything they need to prevail.”
Thurman previously served as chief of the Congressional Affairs Office at the Drug Enforcement Administration and as the Department of Justice’s law enforcement liaison to the Senate Judiciary Committee. He also held congressional affairs roles at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and was an advisor to the FDA commissioner.
Thurman earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees in business administration from the University of South Carolina and Hood College.
Founded in 1993, SMI has been the premier choice in Washington for companies, universities, nonprofits, and industry associations for federal marketing and lobbying services focused on national security, defense, clean energy, life sciences, advanced manufacturing, and research and development.
