Dawn Conley

CEO | Catalyst Campus for Technology and Innovation

As the Senior Executive Director of Catalyst Campus for Technology and Innovation, Dawn leads a team that creates a collaborative ecosystem where industry, academia, startups, government and venture capital intersect with Colorado’s aerospace and defense industry to create community, spark innovation and stimulate business growth in support of our national defense. CCTI is a mission-focused collaboration and innovation ecosystem, and serves as a trusted, agnostic partner to accelerate solutions for the execution of the National Defense Strategy, advancement of civil programs, and the economic development of communities.

Dawn has extensive experience in multiple industry sectors, including aerospace and defense, healthcare, government, education and had her own consulting company. Having worked at Fortune 100, midsize companies and startups, supporting emerging technology and innovative companies with a critical role in our nation’s defense is a passion of Dawn’s. Prior to working at CCTI, she worked for the Mayor of Colorado Springs, leading initiatives to help with military members and spouses, including the passage of HB20-1326 which helps military spouses with occupational licensure reciprocity. As the wife of a retired military member, she understands the challenges and rewards of being a military spouse.

Dawn holds a bachelor’s degree in Economics from The Ohio State University and has won several awards for her contributions to the community, including recognition from Fort Carson and the City of Colorado Springs. In addition to the economic development of the companies and communities that she has been a part of, Dawn has a keen interest in public service and volunteerism.