That perspective shapes how he approaches his work at MAK. “If two sides are talking,” he says, “even arguing, they're not fighting. So building a wargame that's genuinely useful means modeling not just force structures and terrain, but the full decision space. Where are the off-ramps? What conditions make a commander more or less likely to escalate?” Johnny thinks in those terms instinctively, and it shows up in the rigor he brings to MAK's wargaming efforts and how we communicate the value of MAK ONE for wargaming.

And no, his inclination toward strategic excellence doesn't stop when he logs off for the day. He's a triple black belt in Karate, which is its own kind of strategic minefield, and spends a meaningful chunk of his spare time playing role-player games (Dungeons and Dragons, anyone?) that map more directly onto operational planning than some may realize. There’s a discipline in strategy gaming that mirrors what makes wargaming valuable: committing to a decision with incomplete information and adapting as necessary.

Johnny will tell you that wargaming and computer-aided exercises are fundamentally an act of respect for those who have to make real decisions under pressure. “Getting it right matters, not because the simulation is impressive, but because it can shape how someone thinks through a crisis down the road.”

Throughout his 29 years of military service and industry experience, Johnny has Karate-kicked his way into MAK’s office and our hearts.

We’ll unveil the next MAKer Spotlight in our What’s Up MAK newsletter in September. Stay tuned!