Executive Director
Executive Director
The Executive Director of the Central New York Defense Alliance leads the organization’s advocacy efforts, strategic engagement, and regional development initiatives to strengthen and expand the region’s vital defense and high-tech assets.
Nick Stewart, a native of Oneida County, brings more than a decade of experience in government service and advocacy to the role. A committed champion of Central New York’s future, Stewart works closely with leaders across government, industry, and the community to advance the region’s position as a national hub for innovation and defense technology.
Throughout his career, Stewart has played a central role in securing federal support for key regional assets, including the Air Force Research Laboratory Information Directorate (Rome Lab), the Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS), and the Eastern Air Defense Sector (EADS). His efforts have helped drive investment in emerging technologies and strengthen the local economy.
Before joining CNYDA, Stewart held senior roles in the U.S. House of Representatives—serving as Legislative Director to the late Congressman Richard Hanna and as Chief of Staff to Congresswoman Claudia Tenney—and was appointed by President Donald J. Trump to serve at the U.S. Department of State, where he worked on a range of national security priorities from 2017 to 2021.
Board of Directors
The CNY Defense Alliance is guided by a diverse and experienced Board of Directors representing expertise from government, academia, defense industry, and the private sector. United by a shared commitment to Central New York’s future, the Board helps steer the Alliance’s priorities and ensure its mission remains focused on innovation, economic growth, and national security.
MC Chruscicki
Executive Director Emeritus and Co-founder AX Enterprize
Heather Dussault, Ph.D.
Former Principal Engineer, Air Force Research Laboratory Information Directorate (Rome Lab)
Evan DeGennaro
Staff Systems Engineer, Lockheed Martin
Cheryl Haritatos
Former Director of Rome Operations for BAE Systems
William Jemison
Dean of Engineering, Clarkson University
Mark Pfisterer
Board Treasurer and Former President/CEO of AmeriCU Credit Union
Wayne A. Westervelt
Chief of Staff and Vice President for External Relations, SUNY Polytechnic Institute