Ryan Kaono-Wedemeyer

About Ryan Kaono-Wedemeyer

I modernise complex operations at the intersection of leadership and technology. As Founder and CEO of Romeo Kilo Defense Systems (RKDS), I develop AI-enabled platforms that simplify how organisations manage logistics and support agreements. Over 25 years in defence logistics and operations, I’ve led large-scale transformations—from increasing production yield by 28 percent across a 170-person squadron to governing a $500 billion enterprise portfolio at the Pentagon. My focus today is on secure, sustainable digital transformation. Through SAM-D, RKDS’s flagship platform, we embed policy directly into workflows to cut processing time from weeks to hours while ensuring full compliance. I bring together disciplined operational expertise and innovative technology implementation to help organisations modernise confidently. Core strengths: • Digital transformation and AI-enabled automation • Strategic operations and logistics optimisation • Cross-functional leadership and governance • Policy-to-execution implementation If your organization is ready to modernize its operations through practical innovation, let’s connect.

Experience

1. Founder & CEO

   Romeo Kilo Defense Systems Llc

   Jun 2025 — Present · Springfield, VA, US

   Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB)| Defense AI | SaaS | AutomationRomeo Kilo Defense Systems is a defense-focused AI and SaaS development company specializing in automation of logistics and interagency support agreement workflows. As Founder & CEO, I lead strategic development of dual-use AI solutions that align with Department of Defense (DoD) modernization goals, with emphasis on enterprise transformation, zero-trust architecture, and mission-aligned automation. Key Accomplishments:🧠 Designed and led development of SAM-D (Support Agreement Management – Digital), an AI-enabled automation platform that reduces agreement cycle time by 60%, featuring workflow intelligence, secure routing, and CAC-enabled zero-trust access.🤖 Built Phantom Stack, an internal AI ecosystem of voice-interactive digital agents (e.g, Cipher, XO, Makana) to support internal operations, dynamic monitoring, and task execution. Aligned architecture with SAF/FMAO and AFICC, and coordinated technical strategy with former DoD enterprise system SMEs to ensure policy compliance and cross-platform integration. Directed SBIR grant preparation and AFWERX Phase I positioning for SAM-D, including pitch deck development, Volume 1–4 technical submission design, and strategic matchmaking. Integrated secure low-code solutions using Zoho Creator, Deluge scripting, and automated notification workflows tailored to defense applications. Developed commercial crosswalks for civilian adoption and dual-use commercialization.🧩 Core Skills:AI-driven automation · Defense SaaS · DoD logistics systems · Natural language interface · Workflow orchestration · Zero Trust Architecture · Dual-use technology · CAC/PIV integration · Strategic partnerships · SBIR/STTR · DoD compliance · Voice interface development · SaaS product leadership · AFWERX proposal development · Program modernization · UI prototyping · Defense acquisition support

Education

• USAF Air Command and Staff College

  Master's degree

  2016 — 2018

• Community College of the Air Force

  Associate of Science (A.S.)

  2006 — 2008

• United States Air Force Air University

  Squadron Officer's School

  2012 — 2012

• University of Phoenix-Las Vegas Campus

  Bachelor of Science

  2007 — 2009