Leadership
Steve Ikirt
Chief Executive Officer
With over 35 years of military and civilian experience in information systems acquisition, health IT, cybersecurity, and telecommunications, Steve has won and managed over 80 Government contracts valued at more than $1.5B. He’s a retired Army officer, having served our Nation in uniform for over 21 years.
Prior to 9th Way Insignia, he co-founded and was CEO at Information Innovators, Inc (Triple-i). Steve grew Triple-i from 4 people in 2001 to 950+ in 2017. He charted the company’s course, managed operations, and led the acquisition of multiple companies, all while also consulting with a dozen different government agencies.
Melissa Chapman
President
Melissa has led a number of successful government and private-sector projects, many leading to lasting impact on the evolution of health information technology. She has demonstrated a significant capacity to understand complex challenges; deconstruct problems into technology, process, and staffing components; and develop and implement cost-effective, reliable, and sustainable solutions.
Melissa’s career highlights include executive roles at Salient CRGT, General Dynamics Information Technology (GDIT), and Booz Allen Hamilton. She was also CIO at the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and for the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).
Nancy Van Balen
Chief Growth Officer
Nancy brings broad technical experience, proven management skills, and a solid track record of growth. For over 25 years, she has guided identification, pursuit, and delivery of reliable, citizen-centric services to government organizations. Nancy is driving our growth strategy, leading solution architects and proposal experts in developing impactful and sustainable solutions to address critical customer program IT and digital challenges.
Nancy is active in the federal acquisition community, especially focused on optimizing war fighters’ experience as they transition to civilian life, ensuring they can access the full spectrum of care offered by the VA.
Philip Vincenzes
Chief Technology Officer
Phil has over 40 years of executive leadership experience. He has led teams delivering a wide range of technology solutions supporting national security, defense, financial management, and prevention of military suicides. He helps clients acquire and integrate emerging technology capabilities, especially for design and development of visually compelling analytical and knowledge-based solutions. Phil’s solutions have been recognized by governments, academia, and journalists worldwide.
At 9th Way Insignia, Phil leads strategy, innovation, and development of technology solutions for our Federal clients. He’s leading research and application of emerging technology solutions, including artificial intelligence, automation, and advanced analytics.
Kimberly Cole
Executive Vice President, Human Capital
With a 20-plus year record of proven success building high-performing teams and cultivation of strong employee relations, Kim is a trusted advisor to senior management and frontline staff. She champions employee well-being, recognizing that a happy and fulfilled workforce is essential to achieving our business objectives.
Kim’s extensive knowledge and understanding of employment law provides our company a competitive edge, minimizing risk while maximizing opportunities for development of talent and organizational growth. She guides our approach to recruitment, performance management, and employee relations, ensuring we uphold the highest standards of ethical conduct and compliance.
John Stortz
Executive Vice President, Operations
John has 26 years of industry experience. He started his civilian career in government contracting after leaving the Army. Before 9th Way Insignia, John worked as a Client Delivery Executive. He’s a proven Subject Matter Expert in IT Infrastructure and Security Management. Leveraging his extensive program management expertise, John has been instrumental in driving 9th Way Insignia’s growth and success.
John prides himself as a Husband, Father, and Soldier. He credits his achievements to great people he has worked with. John is dedicated to ensuring 9th Way Insignia maintains its small company values as we grow into a large business.