FAIRFAX, Va., April 7, 2026 – Chainbridge Solutions today announced that Founder and CEO Aarti Smith has been selected as a finalist in the 18th Annual Small and Emerging Contractors Advisory Forum (SECAF) Awards in the Executive of the Year category. Winners will be announced at the Awards Gala on Thursday, May 7, 2026. The event honors small and emerging government contractors and the broader industry ecosystem that supports them.
The Executive of the Year award recognizes an individual in the Washington region who demonstrates extraordinary commitment to their company, employees, and the government contracting community.
Smith’s selection continues a strong run of recognition for Chainbridge Solutions at SECAF. In 2025, the company won Government Project of the Year for its modernization of the Air Force Justice Information System. In 2024, Chainbridge was named a finalist for Government Contractor of the Year.
“This recognition reflects the work and commitment of the entire Chainbridge team,” said Smith. “Our responsibility is to protect the U.S. workforce and secure U.S. missions through systems that perform when it matters most. That is serious work, and I am proud to be part of a team that approaches it with focus, care, and discipline every day.”
Under Smith’s leadership, Chainbridge Solutions has advanced the application of Applied AI within Personnel Security and mission-critical systems, including in its flagship Perseus™ platform. The company continues to support federal agencies across defense, justice, and civilian sectors, delivering solutions that strengthen workforce trust, improve operational visibility, and enable mission performance in high-consequence environments.
About The 18th Annual SECAF Awards Gala
The 18th Annual SECAF Awards Gala is the premier commemorative event honoring small and emerging government contractors and the players in the ecosystem that rely on small businesses. The event will be held at the Hyatt Regency, Reston on Thursday, May 7, 2026. For more information, visit www.secaf.org.
About The Small and Emerging Contractors Advisory Forum
For more than 20 years, the Small and Emerging Contractors Advisory Forum (SECAF) has empowered government contractors to scale and succeed. SECAF is comprised of senior leaders from active government contractors and established service providers. Members have access to connections, events, education, tools, and resources needed to stay on top of industry trends, win government contracts, and experience growth. For more information, visit www.secaf.org.
About Chainbridge Solutions
Chainbridge Solutions is a mission-focused technology company delivering software and services to federal agencies across defense, justice, national security, and civilian sectors. The company specializes in personnel security systems, workforce platforms, and Applied AI solutions designed to improve decision-making, strengthen operational performance, and support the missions that protect the nation.
Media Contact
Ben Farrell
bfarrell@chainbridgesolutions.com