Our Management Team
The Operators Behind the Mission.
John Higgins
Contracts Manager
John manages contract awards, CDRLs, invoicing, and customer relations across VET's entire portfolio. His background also includes capture and proposal management, IT project management, and defense IT consulting at Aegis Identity and TechWise.
VET's most senior team member and the backbone of the company's contracting operation. A retired U.S. Air Force Colonel, former Maintenance Squadron Commander, and U.S. Army War College graduate, John flew VSTOL Harriers with the Royal Air Force on exchange tour — a rare distinction. A PMI-certified PMP and disabled veteran, he brings military precision to every aspect of contract execution, from award through closeout.
Jake Watson
Human Resources Manager
Jake manages VET's full HR function — talent acquisition, onboarding, benefits administration, performance management, and employment law compliance. He brings seven years of progressive HR experience across director and manager roles in Colorado Springs.
Prior to VET, Jake served as Director of HR & Operations at Arthritis Associates and HR Manager at Peak Gastroenterology Associates. His expertise spans HRIS systems, FMLA administration, workers' compensation, and Colorado state and federal regulatory compliance.
Dena M. Pollard
BD & Capture Manager
Dena leads business development and capture activities for both VET and VIT, identifying and pursuing new federal contract opportunities across VET's vehicle portfolio. She manages the full BD lifecycle — opportunity review, TOPR response, proposal drafting, CLIN creation, and post-award financial tracking.
She holds a Master of Library and Information Studies from the University of Alabama and a BA in History from California State University Fullerton. Her background includes contract and financial management at IMPRES Technology Solutions and archival and records management with the National Park Service's American Battlefield Protection Program.
