Derek Johnson

Driven by a career in operations, strategy, and leadership—and now expanded with expertise in Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) and agentic AI—I’ve always been motivated by a desire to simplify the complex, help people succeed, and create meaningful outcomes. I find real satisfaction in aligning teams, clarifying challenges, and building solutions that last.

Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of leading transformations in aerospace, defense, manufacturing, and non-profit sectors. At companies like Pratt & Whitney, Lockheed Martin, and Dell, I guided large-scale operations, streamlined supply chains, and delivered double-digit gains in performance and efficiency. Today, through JPS Enterprise Consulting, I blend hands-on leadership experience with cutting-edge AI tools to help organizations make smarter decisions, improve productivity, and adapt to change.

My approach is straightforward: listen first, diagnose the real issue, and then collaborate on solutions that stick. It’s that balance of strategy and execution—now enhanced with AI-driven insights—that consistently delivers results and healthier organizations.

As a veteran and lifelong learner, I’ve seen the importance of resilience, accountability, and inclusion. Mentoring others and supporting professional growth matter just as much as meeting performance metrics.

Outside of consulting, I’m fueled by curiosity and personal passions that bring balance and perspective. Travel opens new ways of seeing the world, digital photography allows me to capture and share stories visually, fitness builds resilience and focus, and chess sharpens the strategic thinking I carry into every challenge. These pursuits reflect the same values I bring to business: creativity, discipline, and continuous growth.

My professional journey has included leading 1,600 employees at Lockheed Martin with a $600M operating budget, delivering a $350M state-of-the-art satellite facility that boosted production capacity by 40%, and overseeing Pratt & Whitney’s $400M automated distribution center. Across every role, the constant thread has been transformation—driving efficiency, strengthening culture, and building organizations ready for the future.

At JPS Enterprise Consulting, the mission is simple: help organizations unlock their full potential.