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SkelKey values the American dream and has worked to defend it. We’re here to help you achieve yours.

Meet the Team

  • Ryan Ford

    Ryan is a cornerstone of SkelKey Consulting, bringing elite expertise in cybersecurity, IT infrastructure, and advanced network engineering. His career began in the U.S. Army, where he was forward deployed across multiple global operations. In these high-stakes environments, Ryan engineered and secured tactical and enterprise networks that supported real-time communications for commanders and soldiers on the ground. He became known for his ability to design resilient, battle-tested systems under pressure ensuring mission success even in the most austere and contested environments.

    Building on that foundation, Ryan transitioned into defense contracting, where he expanded his technical mastery in SCIF construction, enterprise architecture, information security, and full-scale network development. He has led efforts to modernize critical infrastructure, seamlessly integrating emerging technologies while maintaining the highest levels of compliance and security.

    In his current role as an Information Systems Security Manager (ISSM), Ryan not only oversees the protection and compliance of classified systems but also serves as a trusted consultant to the Department of Defense. He partners with senior leaders and engineering teams to design and rebuild mission-critical network architectures, reinforcing the backbone of national defense communications and cyber resilience.

    Recognized within the defense community as a subject matter expert in cybersecurity and network engineering, Ryan is trusted to guide the design and modernization of mission-critical systems that underpin U.S. military operations worldwide. His expertise ensures that networks supporting warfighters remain secure, resilient, and capable of withstanding evolving threats. At SkelKey Consulting, he continues to apply his operational insight and technical mastery to strengthen the nation’s cyber defense posture and safeguard the missions that matter most.

  • Thomas Ford

    Tom is a seasoned professional with over 30 years of experience working with the government and the defense industry. From his early years in the U.S. Air Force, he developed a strong foundation in systems engineering, secure communications, and mission-critical operations that have defined his professional path.

    Throughout his career, Tom has worked with multiple federal agencies, contributing to a wide range of defense and intelligence programs. His expertise spans secure infrastructure design, systems integration, and compliance in high-security environments. Known for his precision and reliability, Tom has played key roles in the development and oversight of complex technical systems supporting national defense objectives.

    Today, although technically retired, Tom continues to serve as a technical Subject Matter Expert (SME) for the U.S. Air Force and other government organizations. In this role, he advises on infrastructure strategy, secure system deployment, and lifecycle management, bringing critical insight to every stage of development and operations.

    Tom’s depth of experience, steady leadership, and continued commitment to excellence make him an indispensable asset to every mission he supports. When he does eventually retire for good, the entire industry will feel the loss of his expertise and leadership.

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