
MEET THE MAVENS
Our Mission
As Mavens, we commit to being bold, vigilant, and innovative, closing critical gaps and delivering novel solutions to our warfighters and the 16 Critical Infrastructure Sectors.
Our Values
Bold
We believe in thinking about what matters tomorrow and moving with intention and focus to make it happen by taking risks and making tough decisions so that we deliver to our customers.
​
Vigilant
Risk management and thoroughness in our business practices are imperative of the outcome in our business. We strive to stay on the edge and provide you with a turn key product without any issues.
​
Innovative
An indispensable element in the creative new way of thinking when taking our products to market addressing its needs. We stand out from the rest.

Grant Rogers

Founder / Chief Executive Officer
Mr. Rogers is an accomplished entrepreneur and U.S. Army veteran with eight years of military service and over 17 years of leadership experience driving operational excellence and innovation. As a proven change agent, he has a track record of optimizing efficiency and effectiveness in organizations with over 1,000 employees, leveraging his expertise in training, team building, and strategic execution.
​
With deep expertise in Operational Planning, Project Management, Intelligence, Counterintelligence, Business Intelligence, and Product Development, Mr. Rogers serves as a trusted technology scout to C-level executives, identifying cutting-edge solutions that enhance mission success. His analytical acumen and ability to assess operational practices allow him to streamline processes, mitigate risk, and drive impact. Adept at navigating high-pressure environments, he excels at making decisive, strategic moves that position organizations for sustained success.

Chief Operations Officer
Mr. Zanoni is a seasoned leader and 22-year U.S. Air Force veteran with over 25 years of experience driving innovation, securing funding, and building strategic connections across the defense and technology sectors. With a deep understanding of SBIR/STTR programs, he excels at identifying opportunities that bridge cutting-edge solutions with critical Department of Defense (DoD) needs.
Leveraging his expertise in Training and Development, Counterterrorism, Security Training, and Organizational Management, Mr. Zanoni plays a pivotal role in shaping mission-ready solutions. With a strong foundation in Organizational Leadership from Ashford University, he is adept at optimizing operations and fostering collaboration between government and industry. Currently, he focuses on SBIR initiatives, innovation, and problem-solving—developing and refining products that enhance national security and operational effectiveness.


Director of Business Development
As the Director of Business Development for Maven Scouts, John "PK" Kelley leverages his extensive background in special operations and a well-established network within the National Security community to forge strategic partnerships and deliver impactful solutions.
With access to key stakeholders across JSOC, SOCOM, the 75th Ranger Regiment, SOFwerx, federal agencies (DoD, Intelligence, Homeland Security), and leading prime contractors such as Lockheed Martin, PK excels at identifying critical capability gaps and aligning them with cutting-edge technological innovations. Drawing on his firsthand understanding of warfighter needs, PK champions solutions that provide a decisive operational advantage, ensuring the nation's security remains robust and forward-thinking.
Venture Capitalist / Board Member
Mr. Upshaw is a seasoned executive and strategic investor with a proven track record in venture capital, M&A, and corporate strategy. Following his successful exit from a venture management firm and nine related seed investments (2017-2022), he continues to drive innovation and growth across multiple industries, including defense-focused small business research, real estate, and regulated services.
​
With a deep expertise in product development, change management, corporate finance, and government procurement, Mr. Upshaw excels at structuring complex deals and navigating regulatory landscapes. His portfolio spans commercial and residential real estate in Los Angeles and Colorado, as well as private investments across traditional and non-traditional asset classes. Adept at assembling capital stacks, mitigating risk, and negotiating high-value transactions, he brings a sharp, strategic approach to business development, ensuring long-term success in competitive markets.

Chief Evangelist Officer / Board Member​
​
Mr. Barnett is a dynamic and results-driven leader with over 30 years of experience driving business growth through technological innovation and strategic market expansion. With a proven track record of success, he has consistently enhanced market share by integrating cutting-edge solutions with optimized business and operational practices.
​
Recognized for his ability to navigate complex industries and foster innovation, Mr. Barnett excels at identifying emerging opportunities, streamlining operations, and positioning organizations for sustained success. His leadership philosophy combines forward-thinking strategy with practical execution, ensuring impactful and measurable business outcomes.
​
Mentor / Board Member​
​
Dr. Alethea Duhon is a distinguished leader with over two decades of experience in national security, defense, and engineering, holding key senior executive and technical leadership roles across both government and private sectors. Widely recognized for her contributions, she boasts an impressive portfolio of publications, patents, and awards that reflect her impact on the field.
​
Beyond her professional achievements, Dr. Duhon is an entrepreneur, angel investor, children’s book author, and startup advisor, bringing her expertise to emerging ventures and groundbreaking innovations. A dedicated mentor, she is deeply committed to empowering the next generation of leaders and innovators, ensuring that her legacy extends far beyond her own accomplishments.
