February 9, 2026
Walter “Wally” Hatfield on Service, Innovation, and Community Impact
CMI2’s Vice President of Training and Experimentation, Walter “Wally” Hatfield, was recently featured on the At the Leadership Table podcast with Retired Major General Jim Hoyer. The conversation offered a thoughtful look at leadership, service, and the responsibility we share to strengthen both national security and our local communities.
At CMI2, Wally plays a key role in advancing defense innovation, helping bridge collaboration between military, industry, and academic partners. His work focuses on accelerating capability development and ensuring those who serve have access to the best possible tools and support.
But leadership for Wally extends beyond the mission space.
Serving West Virginia’s Veterans
In addition to his work at CMI2, Wally serves as Vice President of the Mountaineer Food Bank Board, where he helps guide efforts to address food insecurity across West Virginia. During the podcast, he spoke about the importance of service after service—continuing to support those who have worn the uniform long after their military careers end.
In West Virginia, 7% of households include a veteran. Food insecurity remains a very real challenge for many of these families. In 2025 alone, Mountaineer Food Bank supported more than 16,000 veterans through food assistance programs, partnerships, and community outreach efforts.
One of the initiatives highlighted during the episode is the FREEDOM from HUNGER Campaign, sponsored by West Virginia GoMart Stores. The campaign brings together community members, local businesses, and nonprofit partners to help ensure veterans across the Mountain State have access to nutritious meals.
Leadership Rooted in Service
Wally’s perspective reinforces a simple but powerful truth: leadership is not confined to a title or organization. It is demonstrated through action, commitment, and a willingness to serve wherever there is need.
At CMI2, that means advancing defense innovation to support national security. In communities across West Virginia, it means strengthening outreach efforts and expanding access to educational opportunities for students. In Wally’s personal time, it means working to ensure our nation’s veterans are not suffering from food insecurity.
The FREEDOM from HUNGER Campaign continues to offer individuals an opportunity to make a direct impact. Donations at participating GoMart locations help provide meals to those who have served our nation. Every contribution, no matter the size, supports veterans in communities across the state.
We are proud of Wally’s leadership and his dedication to both mission success and community service.
To hear the full conversation, watch the episode of At the Leadership Table here:
https://youtu.be/eGmmXgJr3EA?si=ME
