Michael Hammes, Senior VP Navy Programs

Michael C. Hammes has extensive senior level management experience in the execution of U.S. Navy shipbuilding and weapons programs in industry and government. He was appointed Senior Vice President, Navy Programs for The Columbia Group on September 28, 2009 after a distinguished career in civil service, and then private industry.

After serving in Vietnam, Mr. Hammes spent over 20 years working for Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA), which culminated in his selection as Director of Cost Estimating in NAVSEA's Cost Engineering and Industrial Analysis Division. As Director, he provided cost estimates, contract cost performance analysis, and contract price negotiations support for Naval Sea Systems and PEO programs. This responsibility was inclusive of all ships, combat systems and weapon system acquisition programs. He also served as the NAVSEA Commander's advisor for program cost matters.

In 1996, Mr. Hammes had the honor of being appointed Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Navy (DASN) - Ships, where he served as the principal advisor to the Secretary of Navy (SECNAV) on all naval ship acquisition, ship maintenance and ship disposal matters. In this position, he was able to successfully gain both the Office of the Secretary of Defense (SECDEF) and Congressional approval of all U.S. Navy shipbuilding programs during the period of March 1996 through January 2001. He regularly testified before Senate and House sub-committees. During this time, he also served as the Navy Chair on the Defense Acquisition Board for shipbuilding matters.

In January 2001, Mr. Hammes left government to work in the private sector. Here, he has provided high level strategic planning and business development for large defense companies. Former positions in industry held by Mr. Hammes include Director of Strategic Planning and Business Development-Marine Group for General Dynamics (GD), and Vice President of Strategic Planning, Business Development, and Communications for Bath Iron Works (BIW).

Mr. Hammes holds a Bachelor's of Science in Industrial Engineering from Virginia Tech, and served as a First Lieutenant Corporal of Engineers in Vietnam. Before joining The Columbia Group, Mr. Hammes was President of Ships, LLC Consulting, which provides Naval Ship Acquisition and Cost Estimating Services.