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Bert Watson

President, Government Relations

For more than 20 years, Bert has assisted industry and academia with federal issues, international problems, and bureaucratic red tape. His political network is extensive and his ability to provide strategic direction with congressional sponsorship is highly valued by his clients.

Bert was stationed in San Diego while on active duty in the Navy. His experience with the Navy’s infrastructure, coupled with eight years as a congressional aide on Capitol Hill, has provided him with the knowledge required to enable successful positioning for his clients. His experience has been diverse in both scope and direction, with client relations his primary focus. Nearly all of Watson & Company’s new clients are referrals from existing clients.

Bert has guided regional input regarding federal legislation reforming the Federal Drug Administration. Additionally, he promoted the marquee experiment on Space Shuttle mission STS‑77, the Inflatable Antenna Experiment, a 50-foot wide, 100-foot long space-based reflector. Bert has also successfully managed numerous DoD funding requests through Congress for technology enhancement.

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VADM PHILLIP BALISLE, USN (RET.)

ADVISOR

Vice Admiral (Ret.) Phil Balisle is a member of Watson & Company's Advisory Board, bringing a wealth of experience in US Navy and maritime programs and federal legislative and executive operations. 

At the end of his 36 years serving the United States Navy, Phil's final tour of duty was Commander, Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA), with responsibility for all ships afloat, four shipyards, all undersea vessels, surface warfare centers, the headquarters in Washington, DC, and leading a team of 46,000 men and women around the world.

Following his retirement from the US Navy, Phil joined DRS Technologies as Senior Vice President of maritime strategic plans and programs, where he oversaw all aspects of strategic planning for maritime programs associated with the US Navy, Coast Guard, and homeland defense. 

 Vice Admiral Balisle currently advises and guides Watson & Company's Navy and maritime strategies to meet demanding and unique client goals to help meet the needs of the Navy, protect the United States, and ensure that the best interests of the taxpayer are met.

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