Auria Executive and Leadership Team

September, 2026

Leadership Overview

Auria has 4 executives leading key functions including technology development, operational scaling, financial management, and corporate strategy.

Focused on delivering advanced engineering solutions for national security, Auria drives mission-critical innovation to support complex space, missile, and cyber operations for government and defense partners worldwide.

Leadership Roles at Auria

  • Chief Financial Officer - J.D. Kuhn
  • Chief Operating Officer - Gary Kerkow
  • President - Tom Dickson
  • Chief Technology Officer - Dave Hansen
  • J.D. Kuhn - Chief Financial Officer

    J.D. Kuhn, the Chief Financial Officer at Auria, manages the financial health and fiscal strategy of the organization. Overseeing capital allocation and budgetary planning, the Chief Financial Officer ensures the company maintains the resources necessary to support complex engineering missions. Kuhn directs financial reporting and risk management processes to provide stability for long-term growth. By analyzing market trends within the defense and cyber sectors, the Chief Financial Officer informs strategic decision-making for the executive team. J.D. Kuhn also monitors contract profitability and operational expenditures to maximize value for government partners. This leadership role involves maintaining transparency with stakeholders while ensuring compliance with industry regulations. Through precise financial oversight, Kuhn supports the expansion of technical capabilities and the pursuit of new business opportunities. The Chief Financial Officer remains focused on sustaining the financial foundation required to deliver innovative solutions in rapidly evolving security environments.
    J.D. Kuhn

    Gary Kerkow - Chief Operating Officer

    Gary Kerkow, the Chief Operating Officer at Auria, manages the execution of complex missions and internal business processes. Overseeing the delivery of engineering services, the Chief Operating Officer ensures operational efficiency across all defense and government contracts. Kerkow optimizes resource allocation to support the rapid deployment of technology solutions in demanding environments. By streamlining internal workflows, the Chief Operating Officer enhances the company's ability to address critical operational challenges. Gary Kerkow also coordinates with cross-functional teams to maintain alignment with project timelines and quality standards. This leadership role involves scaling operational capacity to meet the needs of national security partners. Through disciplined management of daily activities, Kerkow drives the successful implementation of mission-focused strategies. The Chief Operating Officer maintains a focus on operational excellence, ensuring that every project contributes to the overall effectiveness of the organization's service delivery model.

    Tom Dickson - President

    Tom Dickson, the President at Auria, leads the overall corporate strategy and mission-focused vision of the company. Overseeing the alignment of engineering excellence with the needs of national security and defense organizations, the President drives the growth of the business across space, missile, and cyber sectors. Dickson establishes the long-term objectives that guide the organization in delivering innovative software and technical solutions. By fostering partnerships with government agencies, the President ensures the company addresses critical operational challenges with precision. Tom Dickson also coordinates with the executive team to maintain a culture of technical expertise and mission-focused innovation. This leadership role involves representing the company in high-level discussions regarding national security priorities. Through strategic guidance, Dickson secures the organization's position as a leader in the defense technology market, ensuring that every initiative supports the successful execution of complex, mission-critical operations for clients.
    Tom Dickson

    Dave Hansen - Chief Technology Officer

    Dave Hansen, the Chief Technology Officer at Auria, directs the technical roadmap for advanced engineering and software solutions. Overseeing the development of integrated systems for space and cyber missions, the Chief Technology Officer ensures technical excellence across all defense-related projects. Hansen architects scalable frameworks that address complex operational challenges within the national security sector. By aligning research initiatives with evolving mission requirements, the Chief Technology Officer maintains a competitive edge in high-stakes environments. Dave Hansen also collaborates with engineering teams to refine software capabilities, ensuring robust performance for government agencies. This leadership role involves evaluating emerging technologies to enhance mission-critical effectiveness. Through rigorous technical oversight, Hansen secures the integrity of complex systems, driving innovation that supports the broader strategic goals of the organization while maintaining high standards for technical delivery and operational reliability.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Auria Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Auria?
    Auria is led by J.D. Kuhn (Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Gary Kerkow (Chief Operating Officer) and Tom Dickson (President).
    Who is part of Auria’s executive team?
    The executive team of Auria includes leaders such as J.D. Kuhn (Chief Financial Officer), Gary Kerkow (Chief Operating Officer), Tom Dickson (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Auria have?
    Auria has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Auria’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Auria includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, President, Chief Technology Officer.