Col. Charles “Leans” McNiel assumed duties as deputy director of the Integrated Development Office (IDO) during a Sept. 15 ceremony at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio.

The IDO, established by Air Force Materiel Command in 2024, accelerates development of integrated, interoperable warfighting capabilities by partnering across the defense enterprise.

Amanda Gentry, SES, IDO director, presided over the event.

“This isn’t just about bringing in someone with experience, vision, and drive,” Gentry said. “Col. McNiel is the right leader to build on the team’s momentum from the past year.”

McNiel reflected on his 20+ years in uniform and emphasized the strategic impact of acquisition professionals.

“None of us may push triggers or hit buttons in battle,” he said, “but our hands are on strategic levers that stabilize and influence the global landscape. My career has always been about preventing the next big war.”