About Jack Briggs, Maj Gen (Ret)
My career has been defined by high-stakes decision-making and leadership in complex, critical environments. From commanding in combat to advising at the highest levels of government and guiding major institutions, I've dedicated my life to helping leaders make the right choices when no easy answers exist.
My journey began as a distinguished graduate of the U.S. Air Force Academy, leading to over three decades as a senior military leader. I've served as a fighter pilot in combat, flying 225 combat sorties across multiple operations including Desert Storm and Enduring Freedom. My leadership expanded to commanding squadrons and wings, and I ultimately achieved the rank of Major General.
A significant part of my military career involved global operations and strategic leadership. I was honored as the first Olmsted Scholar to Hungary, deepening my understanding of international dynamics. My roles included NATO staff positions, serving as Executive Officer to the Supreme Allied Commander Europe, and leading the 455th Air Expeditionary Wing at Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan, where I oversaw operations for thousands of warfighters.
My experience culminated as the Director of Operations for U.S. Northern Command, where I was the principal advisor on all operational matters, providing strategic guidance for missions ranging from homeland defense to defense support for civil authorities. In this role, I trained, mentored, and led the decision-making process to protect North America from its most serious threats.
After a distinguished military career, I transitioned my expertise to the private and non-profit sectors, applying the same rigor and strategic foresight to new challenges. For nearly a decade, I've brought my passion for high-stakes decision-making to higher education and non-profit leadership. As Vice President for Global Resiliency and Security at NYU, I organized and executed emergency management and continuity programs, overseeing security for 15 campuses across 11 countries. Most recently, I served as the President & CEO for Springs Rescue Mission, southern Colorado’s largest homeless shelter and addiction recovery program. I now serve as the Assistant Vice Chancellor for Public Safety Operations at the University of Colorado, Boulder where I organize, train, and execute operations for event security, emergency management, threat assessment, flight operations, and operate a security operations center and communications center.
My academic background complements my extensive practical experience, including a Master of Science in International Economics from Budapest University of Economic Science, a Master of Arts in International Relations from Troy State University, and a Master's degree in Strategic Studies with highest honors from Air War College. Further, I hold a Doctorate in Education Leadership and Innovation, focusing on how to structure education for maximum impact across all learning environments.
My purpose is to empower leaders with the confidence and justification needed to make the least worst decisions in a crisis, ultimately preserving your reputation, protecting your people, and strengthening your institution. I'm here to help you navigate the storm, not be consumed by it.
Key Highlights of My Experience:
Major General, U.S. Air Force (Ret.)
-
30+ Years as a Senior Military Leader: Including combat command, strategic planning, and homeland defense.
-
225 Combat Sorties Flown: F-15E, F-117A, F-111F.
-
Director of Operations, U.S. Northern Command: Principal advisor on all operational matters for North American defense.
-
Commander, 455th Air Expeditionary Wing, Afghanistan: Led thousands of warfighters in a complex combat zone.
-
Vice President for Global Resiliency and Security, NYU: Managed emergency programs and security for 15 campuses in 11 countries.
-
President & CEO, Springs Rescue Mission: Led a major non-profit addressing homelessness and addiction recovery.
- Assistant Vice Chancellor, University of Colorado, Boulder: Oversees public safety operations
- Doctorate in Education Leadership and Innovation: Expertise in organizational behavior, strategic planning, and adult learning.
-
Extensive International Experience: Including Olmsted Scholar to Hungary, NATO staff positions, and Executive Officer to Supreme Allied Commander Europe.