Chris Klaftenegger, Pt. 2 - From Recon Corpsman/PJ to Defense Technology Business - Ep. 61
Jan 11, 2024
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Former special operations medic Chris Klaftenegger discusses transitioning into entrepreneurship and developing defense technology at Onyx Industries. They delve into building robots, improving defense technology over the years, and mitigating open shock. Klaftenegger shares insights on leadership, tandem barrels in parachute jumps, and advice for industry professionals on transitioning smoothly.
Transitioning from special operations to entrepreneurship requires reinvention and collaboration with skilled individuals.
Innovative shock mitigation technologies like the tandem barrel system can improve parachuting safety for military personnel.
Deep dives
Transitioning from Military Special Operations to Entrepreneurship
The podcast episode delves into Chris's journey from military special operations to entrepreneurship. Chris discusses his transition from recon PGA to building robots, highlighting the importance of being willing to reinvent oneself and surround oneself with smart and hardworking individuals. He emphasizes the significance of fortitude, humility, and understanding end users' needs in product development. Chris also shares insights about creating advanced equipment for warfighters while focusing on decreasing cognitive load and enhancing usability.
Enhancing Parachuting Safety through Innovation
Chris provides valuable insights into enhancing parachuting safety through innovation. He explains the challenges military personnel face during high-impact parachute openings and the need to mitigate opening shock forces. By developing shock mitigation technologies, such as the tandem barrel system, he aims to reduce G-loading impacts on jumpers, thereby improving the safety and longevity of parachute systems. Chris also touches on the importance of continuous learning, adapting, and staying connected within the military community.
Improving Tandem Equipment Drop Capabilities
The podcast discusses Chris's innovative approach to improving tandem equipment drop capabilities. He elaborates on designing tandem barrel systems that can accommodate various payloads, including boats, engines, and medical supplies. Chris emphasizes the need for shock-absorbent and lightweight equipment to protect payloads and reduce opening shock forces during parachute jumps. By prioritizing end-user needs and leveraging technology, Chris aims to revolutionize tandem equipment drops for military missions.
Valuable Lessons for Transitioning Veterans
Chris shares valuable lessons and advice for transitioning veterans based on his own experiences. He highlights the importance of thorough planning, seeking resources, and staying connected within the military community post-transition. Chris encourages veterans to discover their passions, stay patient, and tap into the collective expertise of fellow veterans. He emphasizes the ongoing challenges in life beyond military service and underscores the significance of resilience, seeking help when needed, and continuous personal growth.
This is part 2 of our interview with Chris Klaftenegger.
Chris was a special operations medic in two different military branches, and he has been to selection courses in the US Navy, Marines, and Air Force.
He began his career as a SARC - a Special Amphibious Recon Corpsman at 1st Recon Battalion. After that, he transferred to a reserve unit of the Air Force and went through selection and training to become a Pararescueman, also known as a PJ.
He also attended countless other schools, ranging from the Coast Guard’s Advanced Rescue Swimmer school to avalanche and tactical structural collapse search and rescue schools.
Chris then worked in private security as an emergency response medic, personal security specialist, and medical instructor.
Following that, he transitioned to the world of business and technology. He is currently the Chief Operating Officer of Onyx Industries, a company of former special operators making intelligent unmanned systems and airborne solutions for the defense industry.
In this episode, we talk about Chris transitioning out of his role as a special operations medic and into entrepreneurship, developing advanced defense technology with Onyx Industries.
Time Stamps:
00:00:22 Clipping Tridents 00:03:11 Incrementally Harder Courses 00:05:03 Leadership by Example 00:07:01 What is Chris Doing Now? 00:14:41 PJ to Building Robots 00:19:13 Tandem Barrels 00:24:44 Barrel Improvements in 15 Years 00:27:29 Mitigating Open Shock 00:31:44 Rough Openings 00:33:00 Get in Touch with Chris Klaftenegger 00:35:32 Outro
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