Each week on “5 Minute Salute” our host Chris Budihas talks to veterans making a difference in their communities. Today, Chris has the honor to speak with Chris DeRuyter of National Center for Urban Operations.
Short description of you or your company:
The National Center for Urban Operations, a 501 (C) (3) nonprofit think-tank, is at the forefront of addressing national security and public safety problems related to dense urban and subterranean challenges. We specialize in providing tailored training/education, and serve as a focal point for a community of urban practitioners to inform understanding of this complex environment. Our expertise is geared towards supporting the Department of Defense, government agencies, first responders, the defense industry, and emergency managers with cutting-edge education, immersive training, innovative solution development, and strategic insights. Based in New York, NY, and established in 2018, NCUO stands as a pivotal resource for navigating the intricacies of urban operational landscapes.
What Is Your Why (Why Do You Do What You Do)?:
After 20 years in the Army, I believe that veterans can still serve at a high level. Our experiences are unique and extremely relevant to the challenges facing today’s world. My “why” is I seek to still serve my country on complex issues and assist willing veterans transitioning out to do the same.
How did you get started in your field or work?:
I worked on complex national security issues while in uniform and continue to do so on the outside.
What’s one thing we should know that makes you or your company unique?:
We are a network of networks comprised of worldclass urban practitioners.
What are your biggest goals in the next 6 to 12 Months?:
I’ve always viewed this from a family, organization, personal viewpoint.
For my family, making my wife feel just as loved as day 1 as she turns 40 is huge. My son is entering Middle School next year so giving him the tools to be successful and motivated is key and continuing to be an awesome dad to my 7 year old daughter is always fun.
Organizationally, we hope to continue to inform DoD on the complexity of Urban Operations. We take a “top down with education/bottom up with training” approach to help inform the Army at all levels.
Personally, I plan on applying to a PhD program within the next six months for a start date of Fall 25.
