Duane J. Phillips, MA
Program Director

Duane Phillips is a combat veteran who served over thirty years as a naval aviator flying the F-14 Tomcat and the P-3 Orion. His wide ranging experience in the learning environment earned him the designation as an Education and Training Specialist. He has proven success managing and leading large, complex organizations and multi-year government programs.

As Program Director, Duane supports the National Guard Youth Challe NG e Program contract. He is responsible for the execution of this ten year, 50 million dollar training and technical assistance effort. In this capacity, he manages all aspects of contract compliance, quality assurance and timely execution of all deliverables. Additionally, he leads the staff of the National Challenge Institute (NCI).

Duane’s experience includes training director for the P-3 Orion training squadron where he led his team in developing and executing eighteen separate training tracks for 1200 students. His leadership successes resulted in his selection to be the commanding officer for Patrol Squadron Ten based Naval Air Station Brunswick, Maine. Later Duane served as an instructor at the U.S. Naval War College in the National Security Decision Making Department. He was ultimately selected to be the Dean of Students at this masters level institution. Additionally, he served as Chief of Staff at the Navy Warfare Development Command where he led 200 military and civilian staff in developing and testing capabilities for the Navy’s future.

Duane earned his BS in Operations Analysis from the U.S. Naval Academy. He was awarded an MA in national security and strategic studies from the U.S. Naval War College. He also earned an MA in International Relations from Salve Regina University. Duane is a life member of numerous veterans’ organizations and is active in the local community. He enjoys all outdoor activities, especially those he can share with his family.