The Critical Mass is an international security Do & Think Tank. We implement results-focused projects & sustainable security solutions by championing diverse expertise & innovation. I #TCMSustainableSecurity by, with, & through the right partners, at the right time, with the right expectations. Mad Science 2025 (2) GEI Announcement The Critical Mass is pleased to renew our partnership with the General Energy Institute of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine (GEI). TCM accepted into #GS10KSB The Critical Mass is proud to announce that we've been accepted into the "Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses" National Cohort 19. Mad Science 2025 (2) 1/13 CAPABILITIES Our team offers security and defense assistance policy, program, and project professional and technical support to the US and other donor Government sponsors, implementing stakeholders, foreign assistance coordinators and recipients. Learn More PROJECTS The Critical Mass is the chosen implementing partner for projects across the globe on behalf of the US Government and partner nation senior officials Learn More PARTNERS The Critical Mass is proud to support several US Government, partner nation governments, universities, non-profits, and security practitioners. Learn More ABOUT US The Critical Mass (TCM), LLC is an established Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) and Woman-Owned (WOSB) based in Alexandria, Virginia. We are an international security Do and Think tank and implement results-focused projects and sustainable security solutions by championing diverse expertise and innovation. TCM is a trusted advisor and partner to sponsors and allies, and a builder of an inclusive global community of security-focused professionals. Current service areas include: CBRNE Security & Counterproliferation; Science Diplomacy; Process Hazard Analysis (OSHA) / Ammunition Depot Risk Mitigation; Risk Mitigation of Emerging Technologies (incl. AI); Integrated Program Design, Management & Compliance; Vendor Threat Mitigation and Third Party Due Diligence; Monitoring, Evaluation & Learning; Women, Peace and Security; Staff Augmentation. We support a number of important initiatives with the US Department of State and other international partners. Key recent projects include: Support and training for the Ukrainian scientific community in Ukraine, Poland, and Central Europe; Dual-use goods and border security initiatives in Iraq and Panama; WMD crime scene and evidence investigation in Morocco; Identifying and mitigating Russian public health disinformation in Georgia, Ukraine, and Kazakhstan; Countering cyberbullying and strengthening media literacy in Georgia; Aviation security and chemical response initiatives in Kurdistan. Meet Our Team See Our Work LANGUAGES TCM's team collectively speaks 14 languages, which enhances our reach in international communication and project implementation. Our linguistic proficiency also enables us to establish effective partnerships with local stakeholders across the globe. Partners PARTNERS U.S. Department of Defense Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA ) Cooperative Threat Reduction (CTR ) Directorate Biological Threat Reduction Program (BTRP) Proliferation Prevention Program (PPP) Global Nuclear Security (GNS) Chemical Security and Elimination (CSE) U.S. Department of State Bureau of International Security and Nonproliferation (ISN ) Office of Cooperative Threat Reduction (CTR) Office of Weapons of Mass Destruction Terrorism (WMDT) Office of Export Control Cooperation (ECC) Export Control and Related Border Security Program (EXBS) NATO - North Atlantic Treaty Organization Public Diplomacy Division Office of Cooperative Threat Reduction (CTR ) Office of Weapons of Mass Destruction Terrorism (WMDT ) Office of Export Control Cooperation (ECC ) Export Control and Related Border Security Program (EXBS ) Partner With Us Deliberate Destruction of Ukrainian Scientific Infrastructure by Russia: The Urgency of Its Protection and Restoration The Critical Mass (TCM) and The Institute of General Energy of the NAS of Ukraine Sign Agreement TCM Welcomes Shakib Noori as Program Operations Manager TCM Thoughts on Ukrainian Science and Innovation - Challenges in Days of War The Critical Mass and Local Alexandria, VA Partners Raise $4,500 for Razom for Ukraine TCM Thoughts on Female Leaders in Security and Government Contracting TCM Blog Contact

Kevin serves as Electronic Technician at The Critical Mass, bringing 40 years of dedicated experience in the field of electronic engineering and manufacturing. Kevin is a highly experienced Radio Frequency Design Engineer with a demonstrated history of working in the electrical and electronic manufacturing industry and is a key component of TCM’s support to NASA’s Sounding Rockets Program.   Kevin Kavanaugh Title: Electronic Technician Kevin serves as Electronic Technician at The Critical Mass, bringing 40 years of dedicated experience in the field of electronic engineering and manufacturing. Kevin is a highly experienced Radio Frequency Design Engineer with a demonstrated history of working in the electrical and electronic manufacturing industry and is a key component of TCM’s support to NASA’s Sounding Rockets Program. Prior to joining The Critical Mass, Kevin spent more than 13 years as RF Design Engineer working for K&L Microwave, providing him with substantial knowledge in and boosting his analytical skillset. Previously, Kevin served the Wor-Wic Community College in Maryland as Electronics Instructor. Kevin holds a Bachelor’s degree from focused in Physics / Microelectronics from Salisbury University.

TCM implements results-focused projects and sustainable security solutions by championing diverse expertise and innovation. We are a trusted advisor and partner to sponsors and allies, and a builder of an inclusive global community of security-focused professionals.​ Sustainable Security by, with, and through the right partners, at the right time, with the right expectations. I #TCMSustainableSecurity I HOW WE DO IT TCM Core Principles At The Critical Mass, we are guided by four fundamental principles that shape our approach to problem-solving and decision-making. These anchor our decisions, relationships, strategies, and solutions: Transparency: We conduct our projects with openness, collaboration, and integrity. We rigorously document, share freely, and provide feedback. Curiosity: Evidence-backed logic chains and deep contextual research backstop all of our programming. We are readers, and we cite our sources or conduct the pilot ourselves. Empowerment: We are committed to supporting our partners and stakeholders to thrive. Sustainability: Our focus is on crafting long-lasting, scalable solutions and institutions with resources, buy-in, accountability, and roadmaps to address emerging global security challenges. We have strong expertise and practical experience in conducting Process Hazard Analyses (PHA) and all 13 other elements of Process Safety Management (PSM) within defense and government sectors, ensuring compliance with Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations. Our approach systematically identifies and evaluates potential hazards in operations involving hazardous chemicals, implementing safeguards to mitigate risks. By analyzing possible failures and their consequences, we develop effective measures to protect both personnel and the environment. With our proven track record, we are well-qualified to support additional PHA and PSM efforts in the private and public sectors. Building strong and sustainable partnerships continues to be key to the success of our organization. We enjoy and take great pride in working with a multitude of partners, local vendors, subcontractors, and other partners when implementing projects globally. As one of the tools to ensure that we uphold our standards and safeguard our reputation throughout our partnerships, we have developed a Third-Party Due Diligence Concept. Through the main pillars of the concept – compliance, reputation, performance and financials- we are able to assess the compatibility with potential partners to the benefit of our partners and clients. Given the nature of our work, The Critical Mass is committed to fulfilling its legal obligations by ensuring that all data is used strictly for approved purposes and remains secure from unauthorized or illegal disclosure. To achieve this, TCM has developed and implemented a tailored Data Handling and Protection Protocol. This protocol is designed to address the specific needs and challenges of our operations, safeguarding sensitive information while maintaining compliance with industry standards. Continuous monitoring and regular updates ensure that our practices remain effective and up-to-date in an evolving data security landscape. Since 2021, TCM has been executing projects in Ukraine and is committed to expanding its presence and operations in the region. Recognizing the significant challenges, including reputational and financial risks - particularly the risk of corruption - TCM has developed a Handbook to address and mitigate these risks. TCM is prepared to apply the same strategic approach in other countries, tailoring similar handbooks to meet the unique needs and challenges of each region, ensuring that all projects are conducted with the highest standards of integrity and effectiveness globally. Our company places a high priority on Monitoring & Evaluation (M&E) and Quality Control to ensure the effectiveness and integrity of our operations. We have developed a mechanism that rigorously tracks and assesses our programs and processes. These mechanisms are designed to continuously measure outcomes, identify areas for improvement, and ensure that all activities meet the highest standards of quality. By systematically evaluating our performance, we are able to make data-driven decisions, maintain accountability, and deliver results that align with our objectives and the needs of our stakeholders. When approaching and executing projects, we employ a tailored strategy to identify the target audience, select relevant local partners, and develop an action plan. We carefully consider factors such as the political and social environment, economic conditions, and current events to ensure our approach is well-informed. As our primary focus is on impact-driven projects with an emphasis on sustainability, we recognize the important role of having a local partner who understands the nuances of the region and can provide essential support for a deep understanding of the target audience’s needs and context, enhancing our project’s effectiveness and impact. TCM has established strong and lasting partnerships with regional experts who bring valuable Open Source Intelligence (OSINT) and analytical skills, facilitating impactful collaboration for research purposes. Research is often a critical component of our projects, helping us to understand the specific dynamics of the targeted area or to address complex problems by identifying the most suitable solutions. These partnerships enhance the depth and accuracy of our research and ensure that our approaches are well-informed and tailored to local contexts. TCM specializes in CBRNe training and risk management, emphasizing prevention and mitigation measures implemented left-of-threat prior to incident manifestation. Our methodology integrates global and localized military, civilian, academic, and industry sectors to achieve a strong preparedness against CBRNe threats - a preparedness that is both comprehensive and ensured across sectors. TCM partners worldwide have operationalized our methodologies to enhance consequence management, response planning, modeling, and simulation efforts in the defense of critical infrastructure. These initiatives have contributed to the development and refinement of response policies and practice frameworks across partner nations, enhancing capacities from the tactical level of first responders to the strategic formulation of national CBRNe response doctrines. For each project, we conduct detailed risk assessments to identify potential challenges and obstacles that could impact our work. Recognizing that risks can vary significantly depending on the region, we develop and implement tailored risk mitigation strategies that are specifically designed to address the unique circumstances of each location. Our team consists of experts with deep knowledge and experience across many regions of the world, allowing us to create informed and effective strategies that account for local dynamics, regulatory environments, cultural considerations, and geopolitical factors.

Dr. Gary A. Ackerman, Zachary Kallenborn, Dr. Phillip C. Bleek < Back “Why COVID probably hasn’t helped bioterrorists, despite fears” Dr. Gary A. Ackerman, Zachary Kallenborn, Dr. Phillip C. Bleek Whether it be the doomsday cult Aum Shinrikyo or radical environmentalist group RISE, terror groups have historically attempted to deploy biological weapons against populations. Despite the grave difficulties of such an operation, has the environment of the Covid-19 pandemic made risks of another group successfully deploying enhanced pathogens for terror purposes? Though still unlikely, the pandemic has renewed fears of biological weapons of terror, and an interest in countering them. https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-ackerman-a667453/ https://www.zkallenborn.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/philipp-bleek-24894a9/ Previous Next

Anne Teppel serves as Director of Compliance and Performance at The Critical Mass, bringing over 15 years of multidisciplinary experience from both governmental and non-governmental organizations combining international law, military operations, policy making, organizational development, human resources, and management. Anne Teppel Title: Chief Operating Officer Email: anne.teppel@thecriticalmass.com Anne Teppel serves as Chief Operating Officer at The Critical Mass, bringing over 15 years of multidisciplinary experience from both governmental and non-governmental organizations combining international law, military operations, policy making, organizational development, human resources, and management. Prior to joining The Critical Mass Anne served as Head of Department (acting) at the Danish Ministry of Defense where she took part in shaping major policy initiatives while also contributing to the internal development of the ministry as an organization and of its leadership. Anne previously served as a military legal advisor to the Danish Armed Forces and did so for more than 7 years, starting at the Military Police and later moving on to the Danish Special Operations Command. In this role she served as an advisor to the senior levels of the Danish military, at home as well as on several multinational deployments to Afghanistan, the Middle East and Africa. She proudly continues to serve the Danish Special Operations Command as a reserve officer. Anne started her career specializing in refugee and human rights law working with the Danish immigration authorities and later the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. Anne holds a Bachelor of Laws from Copenhagen University and a Master of Laws from Hong Kong University and Copenhagen University. She recently completed her Executive Certificate in Organization Development and Change Leadership at Georgetown University. In addition to Danish, Anne speaks fluent professional English and has a working knowledge of Norwegian, Swedish, and German.

CBRNE Security & Counterproliferation; Cybersecurity; Integrated Program Design & Management; Quality Framework; Monitoring, Evaluation & Learning. Recent work: Dual-use goods & border security initiatives in Iraq and Panama; WMD crime scene & evidence investigation in Morocco; Identifying & mitigating Russian public health disinformation in Georgia, Ukraine, & Kazakhstan; Countering cyberbullying & strengthening media literacy; Aviation security & chemical response initiatives in Kurdistan. CAPABILITIES Build Teams Uplift Ongoing Operations Ensure Local Sustainability Strengthen Organizations Deliver Strategic Messaging Monitor And Evaluate Impact We support a number of important initiatives with the US Department of State and other international partners. Key recent projects include: Identifying and mitigating Russian public health disinformation in Georgia, Ukraine, and Kazakhstan; Aviation security and chemical response initiatives in Kurdistan; Industrial chemical and healthcare waste management and remediation advisory services in Central Asia and Eastern Europe; Dual-use goods and border security initiatives in Iraq and Panama; WMD crime scene and evidence investigation in Morocco; Countering cyberbullying and strengthening media literacy in Georgia. TCM Events TCM formed and led an international, multidisciplinary team, which included over a dozen leading academic, government, media, and technology partners, to design and implement a year-long integrated research project evaluating impacts of COVID and health disinformation in Eastern Europe/ Central Asia. This project collected and disseminated effective strategies to counter negative effects of decreased public trust in COVID control efforts. TCM ISN Bureau of International Security and Nonproliferation Contaminated Trust TCM ISN Bureau of International Security and Nonproliferation Contaminated Trust TCM ISN GEC Contaminated Trust TCM ISN GEC Contaminated Trust TCM ISN GEC Contaminated Trust TCM ISN GEC Contaminated Trust TCM ISN GEC Oxus Society Contaminated Trust TCM ISN GEC Contaminated Trust TCM ISN GEC Contaminated Trust Harriman Institute TCM ISN GEC Contaminated Trust Harriman Institute TCM ISN GEC Contaminated Trust Gorbi TCM ISN GEC Contaminated Trust Gorbi TCM ISN GEC Contaminated Trust The Center for Strategic Communications and Information Security TCM ISN GEC Contaminated Trust The Center for Strategic Communications and Information Security TCM ISN GEC Contaminated Trust Looqme TCM ISN GEC Contaminated Trust Looqme TCM ISN GEC Contaminated Trust Evrima TCM ISN GEC Contaminated Trust Evrima TCM ISN GEC Contaminated Trust InfoSapiens TCM ISN GEC Contaminated Trust InfoSapiens TCM ISN GEC Contaminated Trust Myth Detector TCM ISN GEC Contaminated Trust Myth Detector TCM ISN GEC Contaminated Trust Media Development Foundation TCM ISN GEC Contaminated Trust Media Development Foundation Learn More and Read the Report Uplift Ongoing Operations TCM was enlisted to coordinate disparate elements of an in-progress airport security program in a volatile security environment. TCM facilitated multiple stakeholder engagements, evaluated process and institutional barriers to progress, and created a teaming strategy and work plan to achieve clearly articulated objectives. Milestones included delivery of critical product revisions while building multi-agency buy in to its content and objectives. TCM Iraq CRDF Global Aviation Security TCM Iraq CRDF Global Aviation Security TCM EXBS Aviation Security TCM EXBS Aviation Security TCM EXBS Iraq Aviation Security ISN Bureau of International Security and Nonproliferation TCM EXBS Iraq Aviation Security ISN Bureau of International Security and Nonproliferation TCM Iraq EXBS Federal Resources Aviation Security TCM Iraq EXBS Federal Resources Aviation Security TCM Panama ECC EXBS TCM Panama ECC EXBS Ensure Local Sustainability TCM collaborated with a National Laboratory to enhance regional security through regulation and control of dual-use goods transiting a major regional trade hub. Through sequenced engagements, provision of case studies and proof points, research, and needs analysis, TCM is building local support for the project and setting conditions for partner-led adoption and sustainment of resulting risk assessment and mitigation tools. TCM Panama ISN SNL Sandia National Laboratories TCM Panama ISN SNL Sandia National Laboratories TCM Panama ISN The Critical Mass TCM Panama ISN The Critical Mass TCM Panama ECC EXBS CID Gallup TCM Panama ECC EXBS CID Gallup TCM Panama ECC EXBS Panama Canal Zone Panamanian El Ministerio de Comercio e Industrias TCM Panama ECC EXBS Panama Canal Zone Panamanian El Ministerio de Comercio e Industrias TCM Panama ISN Bureau of International Security and Nonproliferation TCM Panama ISN Bureau of International Security and Nonproliferation TCM Panama ECC EXBS Department of State TCM Panama ECC EXBS Department of State Strengthen Organizations TCM designed a needs-based program to provide advanced English language training to Georgian Scientists tasked with key security initiatives such as the Bio-Surveillance Network of the Silk Road (BNSR). TCM collaborated with implementers to integrate multiple LOEs into a cohesive program which improved the scientists’ ability to participate in multi-national research, publishing, and conferences, as well as solicit funding and execute grants. TCM DOD DTRA Defense Threat Reducation Agency TCM DOD DTRA Defense Threat Reducation Agency TCM DOD DTRA The Critical Mass TCM Panama TCM DOD DTRA Culmen International Georgia TCM DOD DTRA Culmen International Georgia TCM DOD DTRA Defense Threat Reducation Agency Georgia TCM DOD DTRA Defense Threat Reducation Agency Georgia TCM DOD DTRA Georgetown School of Continuing Studies English Language Center Georgia TCM DOD DTRA Georgetown School of Continuing Studies English Language Center Georgia TCM DOD DTRA Richard Lugar Center for Public Health Research Georgia TCM DOD DTRA Richard Lugar Center for Public Health Research Georgia TCM DOD DTRA Health Security Partners Georgia TCM DOD DTRA Health Security Partners Georgia Deliver Strategic Messaging TCM designed, published, and disseminated research findings and associated policy recommendations in four languages for partner country stakeholders and decision makers. TCM conducted media landscape and audience analysis which informed the creation and execution of a multi-prong information and messaging campaign focused on building momentum and sharing strategies between sectors and countries to sustain trust in their public health institutions. TCM ISN Bureau of International Security and Nonproliferation Contaminated Trust TCM ISN Bureau of International Security and Nonproliferation Contaminated Trust TCM ISN GEC Contaminated Trust TCM ISN GEC Contaminated Trust TCM ISN GEC Contaminated Trust TCM ISN GEC Contaminated Trust TCM ISN GEC Oxus Society Contaminated Trust TCM ISN GEC Contaminated Trust TCM ISN GEC Contaminated Trust Harriman Institute TCM ISN GEC Contaminated Trust Harriman Institute TCM ISN GEC Contaminated Trust Gorbi TCM ISN GEC Contaminated Trust Gorbi TCM ISN GEC Contaminated Trust The Center for Strategic Communications and Information Security TCM ISN GEC Contaminated Trust The Center for Strategic Communications and Information Security TCM ISN GEC Contaminated Trust Looqme TCM ISN GEC Contaminated Trust Looqme TCM ISN GEC Contaminated Trust Evrima TCM ISN GEC Contaminated Trust Evrima TCM ISN GEC Contaminated Trust InfoSapiens TCM ISN GEC Contaminated Trust InfoSapiens TCM ISN GEC Contaminated Trust Myth Detector TCM ISN GEC Contaminated Trust Myth Detector TCM ISN GEC Contaminated Trust Media Development Foundation TCM ISN GEC Contaminated Trust Media Development Foundation Learn More and Read the Report Monitor and Evaluate Impact TCM authored and implemented a multi-tiered monitoring and evaluation plan and consulted on content, development, rollout strategy for an online USG and National laboratory-sponsored policy visualization tool. TCM ensured that the application was relevant and accessible to partner-government stakeholders, and will continue to evaluate the program’s use and efficacy in assisting to identify biosafety and biosecurity policy challenges. TCM PNNL DOS WMDT Iraq Biodefense Policy Analysis Tool IBPLAT TCM PNNL DOS WMDT Iraq Biodefense Policy Analysis Tool IBPLAT TCM PNNL DOS WMDT Weapons of Mass Destruction Iraq Biodefense Policy Analysis Tool IBPLAT TCM PNNL DOS WMDT Weapons of Mass Destruction Iraq Biodefense Policy Analysis Tool IBPLAT TCM PNNL Department of State WMDT Iraq Biodefense Policy Analysis Tool IBPLAT TCM PNNL Department of State WMDT Iraq Biodefense Policy Analysis Tool IBPLAT PNNL Pacific Northwest National Laboratory TCM PNNL Pacific Northwest National Laboratory DOS WMDT Weapons of Mass Destruction Iraq Biodefense Policy Analysis Tool IBPLAT TCM partnered with a coalition of international organizations to provide industrial chemical and healthcare waste management and remediation advisory services to ongoing projects in Central Asia and Eastern Europe.  CORE COMPETENCIES AND SERVICES TCM offers security and defense assistance policy, program, and project professional and technical support to U.S. and other donor Government sponsors, implementing stakeholders, foreign assistance coordinators and recipients. Beyond T3: Modules and Skills Coaching Designed for Train-the-Trainer (T3) "Trainers" National Security Enterprise/Sector Assessments Strategic Policy, Action, and Sustainment Plan Development Industrial Chemical & Healthcare Waste Management & Remediation Support Advisory Services Institutional Security Practices Integration and Adoption Stakeholder Engagement Evaluation, Design, and Facilitation Stakeholder Impact Strategies and Skills Training Security Assistance Program Lifecycle Design and Advising Project Continuity and Contigency Adaption/Assistance Technical, Operational, and Policy Capacity Building Subject-Matter-Expert (S ME) Support Partner With Us

Mariya Chukhnova serves as Project Coordinator at The Critical Mass. Before joining TCM, Mariya worked as Project Manager at Sovereign Ventures, a management consulting company that specializes in fighting systemic corruption in developing democracies by using innovative solutions. Mariya is a tri-lingual Ukraine-native professional with strong regional expertise. She was born and raised in Lutsk, Ukraine, and immigrated to the United States in 2007. Mariya Chukhnova Title: International Security Specialist and Operations Manager Email: mariya.chukhnova@thecriticalmass.com Mariya joined The Critical Mass in 2022 and currently serves as International Security Specialist and Operations Manager. She is responsible for a variety of tasks, including offering her expertise on international relations, anti-corruption strategies, and practical/research-backed strategies and recommendations to achieve project objectives; conducting in-depth research and analysis of international security issues, such as geopolitical conflicts, terrorism, cyber threats, and regional stability; overseeing day-to-day operations, monitoring progress, and addressing issues as they arise. Mariya is a trilingual (Ukrainian, Russian, English) expert in international security and regional knowledge, specializing in Eastern Europe, particularly Ukraine and Russia. With a diverse background in cybersecurity, rule of law, anti-corruption, and international security, Mariya possesses a distinctive skill set that is instrumental in formulating and executing programs and seeking solutions for complex global challenges. Mariya also acts as a United Nations representative for the World Federation of Ukrainian Women’s Organizations (WFUWO), advocating for Ukrainian women and promoting their rights. Since August 2020, Mariya has been actively involved in instructing the course "Systemic Corruption in Eurasia: Competition, Conflict, and War" at Columbia University School of International and Public Affairs/Harriman Institute, where she conducts a seminar, " Ukraine on the Eve of War and the Fight for Independence and Sovereignty,” that covers deoligarchization and other important initiatives to reform the system in Ukraine. Mariya earned her bachelor's degree in Slavic Studies from Columbia University School of General Studies and a master's degree in Regional Studies with a focus on Ukraine-Russia relations from The Harriman Institute at Columbia University. Mariya was born and raised in Lutsk, Ukraine, and immigrated to the United States in her early twenties.

TCM is excited to share information on strategic partners to support client and sponsor global security and development objectives. Strategic Partners The Critical Mass LLC (TCM) is proud to establish strategic partnerhips with industry's leading organizations. Partner with TCM Joint Venture - TCM-KIS TCM-Kira Integrated Services LLC The Critical Mass LLC (TCM) is proud to partner with the Tlingit Haida Business Corporation (THTBC) to create a Joint Venture in order to support our client's global security and development needs. Learn More

Ethiana serves as Junior Project Coordinator at The Critical Mass, bringing over her experience as a student to the company and aiding in ad hoc tasks, writing reports, data analysis, and project management help on current projects. Ethiana Hacsh Title: Junior Project Coordinator Email: ethiana.hacsh@thecriticalmass.com Ethiana serves as Junior Project Coordinator at The Critical Mass, bringing over her experience as a student to the company and aiding in ad hoc tasks, writing reports, data analysis, and project management help on current projects. Prior to and during her time at The Critical Mass, Ethiana is an undergraduate student at the College of William in Mary in Williamsburg, VA where she studies Government and Data Science. Her immediate interests lie in security studies and using data and data visualizations to communicate effective information for policy analysis and implementation. Ethiana’s skills include basic programming (Python, R-Studio), Research Proposal Writing and proficiency in the languages of English and Spanish. She hopes to continue building her professional skillset throughout the remaining years of her undergrad education at William and Mary.

Sustainable Security by, with, and through the right partners, at the right time, with the right expectations. I #TCMSustainableSecurity I The Critical Mass (TCM), LLC is an established SDVWOSB based in Alexandria, VA. We are an international security Do and Think tank and implement results-focused projects and sustainable security solutions by championing diverse expertise and innovation. ABOUT TCM The Critical Mass (TCM), LLC is an established Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) and Woman-Owned (WOSB) based in Alexandria, Virginia. We are an international security Do and Think tank and implement results-focused projects and sustainable security solutions by championing diverse expertise and innovation. TCM is a trusted advisor and partner to sponsors and allies, and a builder of an inclusive global community of security-focused professionals. Current service areas include: CBRNE Security & Counterproliferation; Remediation Services; Cybersecurity; Integrated Program Design & Management; Quality Framework; Monitoring, Evaluation & Learning. We support a number of important initiatives with the US Department of State and other international partners. Key recent projects include: Support and training for the Ukrainian scientific community in Ukraine, Poland, and Central Europe; Dual-use goods and border security initiatives in Iraq and Panama; WMD crime scene and evidence investigation in Morocco; Identifying and mitigating Russian public health disinformation in Georgia, Ukraine, and Kazakhstan; Countering cyberbullying and strengthening media literacy in Georgia; Aviation security and chemical response initiatives in Kurdistan. Jordan Wilhelm Chris Stotts MEET THE CORE TEAM Anne Teppel Neil Singh Shakib Noori Ethiana Hacsh Mariya Chukhnova Kevin Kavanaugh PUBLICATIONS Contaminated Trust: Public Health Disinformation and its Societal Impacts in Georgia, Kazakhstan, and Ukraine Iraq 5th International CBRN Safety and Security Conference (#CBRNIraq2020) Magazine TCM Blog UPDATES & NEWS Deliberate Destruction of Ukrainian Scientific Infrastructure by Russia: The Urgency of Its Protection and Restoration The Critical Mass (TCM) and The Institute of General Energy of the NAS of Ukraine Sign Agreement #TCMPress TCM Welcomes Shakib Noori as Program Operations Manager #TCMTeamNews TCM Thoughts on Ukrainian Science and Innovation - Challenges in Days of War #TCMGovConInsights

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Chris Stotts serves as CBRNE Planning and Operations Lead. He brings extensive multidisciplinary experience, specializing in critically examining, analyzing, and engaging with complex issues surrounding the intersection of scientific and technological developments with international relations and policies, and the relevance to the evolving international security agenda. Chris Stotts Title: Training and Development Manager and Senior CBRNE SME Email: chris.stotts@thecriticalmass.com Chris Stotts serves as Training and Development Manager and Senior CBRNE SME . He brings extensive multidisciplinary experience, specializing in critically examining, analyzing, and engaging with complex issues surrounding the intersection of scientific and technological developments with international relations and policies, and the relevance to the evolving international security agenda. Chris adds extensive subject matter experience to the team through his history as a team leader-certified Army Explosive Ordnance Disposal professional with 19+ years of both tactical and strategic operational experience. During this period, he served as a technical authority recommending and implementing policy guidance for the direction, integration, and management of international programs and activities related to countering Chemical Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, Explosive (CBRNE) threats, Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) operations, Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) operations, and counterterrorism support operations including Irregular Warfare Threat Analysis, and Training Support Packages. He also supported the Theater Security Cooperation Program by fostering lasting reciprocal partnerships with both military and civilian law enforcement and intelligence agencies of regional partners in the Asia-Pacific region. Chris's global mindset on International Affairs was significantly influenced through his travels to 22 different nation-states throughout the world and his graduate education in The United Kingdom. Chris’s formal education build upon his experience and includes a Bachelor’s degree (suma cum laude) from Florida International University’s School of International and Public Affairs (SIPA) , and a Master’s degree with merit from King’s College London’s Center for Science and Security located within their war studies department. He is also a graduate of the Army’s Senior Leaders Course and the Naval School for Explosive Ordnance Disposal .

Join our growing team! The Critical Mass (TCM) LLC Subject Matter Expert (SME) recruitment strategy begins with our global network of professionals with demonstrated success in their competency or specialization. We are a trusted advisor and partner to sponsors and allies, and a builder of an inclusive global community of security-focused professionals.​ RECRUITING Continuity and talent sustainment in threat reduction capacity building. **No open positions at this time. Please check back and also consider filling out our interest form below as TCM continues to expand so we can reach out** TCM Recruitment Strategy The Critical Mass (TCM) LLC Subject Matter Expert (SME) recruitment strategy begins with our global network of professionals with demonstrated success in their competency or specialization. Since 2006, TCM staff have been part of U.S. Government security and defense assistance programming that put them in proximity to policy, military, law enforcement, incident response, industry, academia and R&D, health, agriculture, and environment communities. During this time, TCM staff seized the opportunity to build and maintain a close connection with a diverse cadre of SMEs who are at the top of their profession in their respective specializations. TCM SMEs have demonstrated passion, commitment to cause, and a proven ability to achieve transformational and multifaceted mission objectives requiring a whole-of-team, cooperative approach. The TCM SME repository represents geographic, cultural, and linguistic fluency, science and technology competencies such as chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and explosives (CBRNE), information technology, and cyber security, and includes global thought leaders and policy architects who have been on the front lines of shaping and implementing national and international security and defense legislative and strategic frameworks. TCM will coalesce the right SME team with the right combination of skills, expertise, required to shape, inform, and accomplish assistance objectives no matter the scope or complexity. SMEs We Need TCM continuously seeks Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) in the following areas: Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) Safety and Security Hazardous Waste Management Explosive Ordnance Disposal Improvised Hazards and Dispersal Devices Weapons Removal and Abatement Supply Chain/Materials Life Cycle Security Incident Response, and Command and Control Cybersecurity Critical Infrastructure Security Nonproliferation/Counterproliferation and Counter-WMD Leadership and Organizational Development Organizational and Geographic Cultural Competence Interested in Joining Our Team? Fill out our interest fields below. We are continuously searching for SMEs that possess the skills, training, and expertise to achieve our mission. If we have an opportunity that matches your skillsets, we will be in contact with you. Come Work With Us First Name Last Name Email Countries for Project Focus Key Interest Area Link to CV/LinkedIn Code Phone Tell Us About You Submit Thank you! We’ll be in touch.

Nidal Abu Sammour serves as the MENA (Middle East North Africa) Liaison. For The Critical Mass and clients he serves as a non-proliferation professional with over a decade of experience implementing CBRNE-related USG programs in the MENA region and high-risk countries. Nidal Abu Sammour Title: EXBS External Liaison Email: nidal.abusammour@thecriticalmass.com Nidal Abu Sammour serves as the EXBS External Liaison with a current focus on the MENA region. For The Critical Mass and clients he serves as a non-proliferation professional with over a decade of experience implementing CBRNE-related USG programs in the MENA region and high-risk countries. With extensive experience in program management, project management and operations, Nidal managed numerous projects mainly focusing on building USG partners capacities to counter proliferation of WMDs and dual-use commodities by establishing and improving in-country systems and regulations, and developing organizational and individual capacities. Before joining The Critical Mass, Nidal served as a program manager at CRDF Global , exclusively managing border security related programs and projects for the U.S. Department of State Export Control and Border Security (EXBS) Program in the MENA region. Prior to that, Nidal served as a senior project manager and managed chemical security related projects for the Chemical Security Program (CSP), Office of Corporate Threat Reduction (CTR) in the MENA region. He has a particular focus on Iraq, Yemen, Libya and Jordan. His projects varied between grants, workshops, conferences and technical/field trainings for a diverse audience from public and private sectors. Nidal holds a bachelor degree in Computer Science from Mustansiriyah University, Baghdad, Iraq , and has substantial experience in logistics and administrative support.

Jordan Wilhelm is a founding member and serves as CEO of The Critical Mass, bringing over 15 years of program management and International Post Conflict Stabilization and Hazard-Reduction experience to the sustainability enterprise. Jordan Wilhelm Title: CEO & Founder Email: jordan.wilhelm@thecriticalmass.com Jordan Wilhelm is a founding member and serves as CEO of The Critical Mass, bringing over 15 years of program management and International Post Conflict Stabilization and Hazard-Reduction experience to the sustainability enterprise. Prior to creating The Critical Mass, Jordan was the Director of Conventional Weapons Destruction (CWD) for one of the world’s largest UXO remediation companies. Jordan managed contracts with the US Department of State as well as other international organizations to conduct IED, UXO, CBR and Explosive Hazard clearance in post conflict environments worldwide. Jordan is a team leader-certified Army Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Officer , with deployment, operations, and company command experience in EOD and CBRNE operations. She has conducted EOD and Logistics Operations in support of Engineer units in Northern Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF), and in Southern Afghanistan during Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF). She also served a tour on a Provincial Reconstruction Team (PRT) in Ghazni, Afghanistan coordinating logistics, humanitarian aid, and women’s affairs. She serves on the Board of Directors of The MOAA Foundation , the largest and most influential military service organization in the nation and was a 2021 40 Under 40 honoree with the Chamber ALX , for which she was featured in the November 2021 issue of VIP Alexandria Magazine . Jordan has a Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Virginia and a Master’s Degree in Emergency and Disaster Management from Georgetown Universit y. She is also a graduate of Federal Officer Candidate Training School, the Combined Logistics Captains Career Course, and Naval School for Explosive Ordnance Disposal .

Frank Hoffman < Back “Black Swans and Pink Flamingoes: Five Principles for Force Design” Frank Hoffman Over generations of American military planning, Frank Hoffman assesses that the record of foreseeing the location, nature and requirements of the next war have been dismal. As a result, he suggests, American planning techniques must fundamentally change to account for incorrect prediction and leave open to the United States a range of flexible avenues and responses to meet the needs of tomorrow’s crisis. https://www.linkedin.com/in/frank-hoffman-bb65407/ https://www.fpri.org/article/2015/08/black-swans-and-pink-flamingos-five-principles-for-force-design/ https://warontherocks.com/2015/08/black-swans-and-pink-flamingos-five-principles-for-force-design/ Previous Next

We are agile by design – leveraging our compliant, flexible infrastructure to rapidly plan, source, and manage teams to support partner-focused security capacity-building programs. Jordan Wilhelm Chris Stotts MEET THE CORE TEAM Anne Teppel Shakib Noori Neil Singh Ethiana Hacsh Mariya Chukhnova Kevin Kavanaugh ABOUT TCM The Critical Mass (TCM), LLC is a fast-growing, Service-Disabled Veteran Small Business (SDVOSB) and Economically Disadvantaged Woman-Owned (EDWOSB) based in Alexandria, Virginia. We support a number of important initiatives with the US Department of State and other international partners. Key recent projects include identifying and mitigating Russian disinformation in Georgia, Ukraine, and Kazakhstan; dual-use goods and border security projects in Iraq and Panama; WMD crime scene and evidence investigation in Morocco; and aviation security and chemical response initiatives in Kurdistan. We enable clients to demonstrate responsiveness, commitment, and innovation to international counterparts while achieving tangible and enduring progress toward objectives. PUBLICATIONS Contaminated Trust: Public Health Disinformation and its Societal Impacts in Georgia, Kazakhstan, and Ukraine Iraq 5th International CBRN Safety and Security Conference (#CBRNIraq2020) Magazine TCM Blog UPDATES & NEWS Deliberate Destruction of Ukrainian Scientific Infrastructure by Russia: The Urgency of Its Protection and Restoration Jan 18, 2024 The Critical Mass (TCM) and The Institute of General Energy of the NAS of Ukraine Sign Agreement #TCMPress May 22, 2023 TCM Welcomes Shakib Noori as Program Operations Manager #TCMTeamNews May 21, 2023 TCM Thoughts on Ukrainian Science and Innovation - Challenges in Days of War #TCMGovConInsights May 17, 2023

Dr. Glenn Cross < Back “Wrestling with imponderables: assessing perceptions of biological-weapons utility” Dr. Glenn Cross How have state level actors developed their perception of biological weapons and their use? And how does that affect development and use by sub state actors? Dr. Glenn Cross’ analysis of the case studies and developmental paths taken over the past century in bioweapons development and state diplomacy over it reveals the background in which the bioterrorists of tomorrow operate. https://www.aiche.org/community/bio/dr-glenn-cross https://armscontrolcenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Klotz-Cross-V5-unpublished-draft-for-CACNP.pdf https://warontherocks.com/2017/08/long-ignored-the-use-of-chemical-and-biological-weapons-against-insurgents/ Previous Next

< Back Support to Ukrainian Scientists CRDF Global and The Critical Mass on behalf of the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of International Security and Nonproliferation Office of Cooperative Threat Reduction (ISN/CTR) is pleased to invite scientists, technicians, and engineers (STEs) whose work and livelihood have been impacted by the full Russian invasion into Ukraine to apply to this program which will give scientists access to a consolidated repository of short-term grants, research collaboration projects, fellowships and other work opportunities in the civilian chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) sector. Through this program, CRDF Global and The Critical Mass, will support Ukrainian STEs to identify existing professional development opportunities that align with their expertise and interest, by connecting them with short-term, funded positions in European and global institutions, labs, or research groups. If you are interested in learning more, please contact The Critical Mass LLC, at Ukraine@thecriticalmass.com for more information. Glory to Ukraine! CRDF Global та The Critical Mass від імені імені Бюро міжнародної безпеки та нерозповсюдження Державного департаменту США й управління спільного зменшення загрози (ISN/CTR), запрошує науковців, техніків та інженерів, чия професійна діяльність та засоби для існування постраждали після повномасштабного російського вторгнення в Україну, подати заявку на участь у програмі, яка наддасть вченим доступ до консолідованої бази даних із короткостроковими грантами, дослідницькими проєктами співпраці, стипендіями та іншими можливостями роботи в цивільному хімічному, біологічному, радіологічному та ядерному (CBRN) секторі.   За допомогою даної програми, CRDF Global та The Critical Mass наддадуть підтримку українським експертам у визначенні існуючих можливостей професійного розвитку, які відповідають їхньому досвіду та інтересам, шляхом пошуку короткострокових оплачуваних посад у європейських та глобальних установах, лабораторіях або дослідницьких групах. Якщо ви зацікавлені, повідомте нам на електронну пошту:  Ukraine@thecriticalmass.com .   Слава Україні! The Critical Mass (TCM) has partnered with Sandia National Laboratories (SNL) to help ensure the continuity of Ukraine's research and provide resources to scientists that have been displaced both in and outside of the country following Russia's full-scale invasion. TCM and SNL have jointly developed a support program which includes a no-cost, remotely accessible certificate course training for dual-use scientists on best practices in identifying professional opportunities in their field and protecting intellectual property. We are grateful to #ScienceForUkraine , a grassroots initiative run by an international community of scholars for helping us spread the word about our program and other critical efforts focused on supporting the Ukrainian academic field in strengthening Ukraine's presence in the international scientific arena. For more information about the course and/or questions on how to register for the training, please contact our team: Ukraine@thecriticalmass.com . Glory to Ukraine! The Critical Mass у партнерстві з Sandia National Laboratories (США) створили програму для надання тимчасової підтримки українським науковцям, технікам та інженерам, які були змушені покинути рідні професійні установи або ж знаходяться в ризику примусового переміщення через повномасштабне вторгнення російської федерації. Ця програма підтримки включає безкоштовний дистанційний сертифікований курс для науковців подвійного призначення на теми передового досвіду визначення професійних можливостей та захисту інтелектуальної власності. Ми вдячні #ScienceForUkraine , ініціативі міжнародної спільноти науковців за допомогу в розповсюдженні інформації про нашу програму та інші критично важливі зусилля, спрямовані на підтримку української академічної сфери у зміцненні присутності України на міжнародній науковій арені. Щоб отримати більш детальну інформацію та умови реєстрації, повідомте будь ласка на поштову скриньку: Ukraine@thecriticalmass.com . Слава Україні! This initiative is managed by TCM Project Coordinator Mariya Chukhnova #ukrainianscience #supportukraine #sustainability Project Gallery Previous Next