Johnnie Kaberle

Senior Vice President

Former Staff Director, U.S. House of Representatives Defense Appropriations Subcommittee

With over 30 years of expertise in appropriations, national security, and government affairs, Johnnie Kaberle is a recognized leader in national security, appropriations, federal policy and strategic decision-making. Her distinguished career in public service has been defined by strategic leadership, high-stakes negotiations, and policy development at the highest levels of government.

Most recently, Johnnie served as Majority Staff Director and Clerk of the Defense Appropriations Subcommittee, where she led a team of national security and intelligence experts in drafting and negotiating the Fiscal Year 2024 and 2025 Defense Appropriations bills—each exceeding $800 billion. She also served as Minority Deputy Staff Director for the House Appropriations Committee, bringing a deep understanding of federal funding across the government and both majority and minority committee operations. Throughout her career, she has built coalitions, cut through bureaucracy, and translated complex policy goals into actionable, results-driven strategies.

Johnnie’s unique professional background spans leadership roles in House Republican Leadership, the House Appropriations Committee, and multiple Congressional offices. This breadth of experience has provided her with a comprehensive understanding of the legislative process, federal appropriations, and strategic policy development. Her ability to navigate complex political and policy landscapes has made her a trusted advisor to senior leaders across government and industry.

Johnnie’s tenure on the House Appropriations Committee cemented her as a trusted advisor to Members of Congress, senior administration officials, and industry leaders. She played a central role in shaping defense innovation, federal funding priorities, and national security strategy, including securing over $2.5 billion for defense innovation, accelerating the adoption of emerging technologies through the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU), Accelerate the Procurement and Fielding of Innovative Technologies (APFIT) program, and the Office of Strategic Capital (OSC).

Johnnie is widely recognized for her sharp intelligence, strategic thinking, and unwavering dedication. Known as a tough and results-driven leader, she has a reputation for navigating complex challenges with precision, resilience, and a sharp sense of humor. Her ability to build consensus and drive meaningful change has earned her the respect of colleagues on both sides of the aisle.

Johnnie’s contributions to national security and government service have been honored with some of the highest civilian awards, including:

• Office of the Secretary of Defense Medal for Exceptional Public Service

• Department of the Navy Distinguished Public Service Award

• Department of the Army Distinguished Public Service Medal

• Department of the Air Force Distinguished Public Service Award

• National Guard Association of the U.S. Patrick Henry Award

• Honorary Admiral in the Texas Navy

These awards reflect her deep commitment to strengthening America’s defense capabilities and her unwavering dedication to those who serve in uniform.