• LEADERSHIP

Nelson Balido | Chairman & CEO

Nelson Balido is a recognized leader operating at the intersection of government, public policy, private industry, and nonprofit sectors. Widely regarded as one of the foremost authorities on U.S. border issues, his work focuses on trade, travel, and security across North America. He is the President and CEO of Balido and Associates, a strategic management consultancy, and the Founder and Chairman of the Border Commerce and Security Council, established in 2013.

Prior to his current roles, Mr. Balido served as President of the Border Trade Alliance and was appointed by the President of the United States to lead the Private Sector Division at the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). He later served on the Homeland Security Advisory Council, where he was awarded the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s highest civilian honor, the Outstanding Public Service Medal.

From 2010 through 2024, Mr. Balido was repeatedly appointed by the United States Trade Representative and the U.S. Secretary of Commerce, across multiple presidential administrations, to serve on the Industry Trade Advisory Council on Customs and Trade Facilitation. In this role, he provided strategic guidance on international trade policy, customs modernization, and measures to strengthen U.S. global competitiveness and trade facilitation.

In 2021, he was appointed Consultant to the DHS Undersecretary for Intelligence, and in 2023, he was named Special Advisor in the Office of the Commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Throughout his career, Mr. Balido has worked closely with leaders across the United States, Canada, and Mexico to advance policy initiatives that strengthen cross-border cooperation, trade and security relations, energy development, and cultural ties.

In addition to his civilian leadership, Mr. Balido serves as an officer in the United States Navy Reserve, assigned to U.S. Northern Command in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

His degrees and certificates include a Masters-Level Graduate Certificate in Advanced International Affairs from the Bush School of Government at Texas A&M University, a Certificate in Petroleum Land Management from the University of Houston, a Certificate in Public Affairs from Universidad Internacional Menéndez Pelayo in Spain; a Certificate in Governmental Relations from Instituto Universitario De Investigación Ortega Y Gasset in Spain; a Certificate in Community Minority Business Advancement from McCombs School of Business at the University of Texas at Austin; and a Bachelor of Science in International Economics and Marketing and a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish from Texas Tech University and a Graduate of the Naval War College and Joint Special Operations University.


Benji Hutchinson | Board Member

Benji Hutchinson brings over 20 years of experience in the identity, biometrics, AI, and computer vision industries supporting commercial and public sector customers globally. He has served in various leadership roles scaling revenue for technology start-ups and multinational firms. He has been an advisor and consultant in biometrics and identity intelligence technology for the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence, U.S. Army, NATO, and national and international standards bodies. He currently serves as an appointee to the National Artificial Intelligence Advisory Committee, Law Enforcement Subcommittee, created by federal statute to advise the President and the White House National AI Initiative Office. Benji holds a BA in International Economics and French, an MA in French Language and Literature, and an MA in International Affairs from the University of Kentucky.

Claude Hutton | Board Member

Claude “Odge” Hutton serves as Vice President for Elder Research’s Homeland business unit, where he focuses on applying cutting-edge AI and data science technologies to mission-critical areas. Odge’s team currently supports the U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Office of Trade, with strategic solutions that safeguard our national security. His leadership is marked by a deep respect for those he serves. Odge is a retired Marine who rose from Private to Lieutenant Colonel over a distinguished 24+ year career, serving in multiple theaters of operation. From the Marines to the boardroom, he’s learned that empowering people is the cornerstone of success.

Odge considers it a blessing to serve others and is humbled by the opportunity to lead. He has consistently delivered transformative outcomes by connecting people, processes, and technology. With over two decades of experience working with data in complex, rapidly changing environments, he’s fostered collaboration across diverse, cross-functional teams.

Navigating highly regulated environments and shifting priorities, Odge has led the successful execution of several multi-million-dollar programs. Known for his ability to implement innovative strategies, he’s championed process improvements and policy changes that manage risk, enable growth, and increase agility.

Odge previously served as Chief Operations Officer for a rapidly growing company, where he provided the leadership, management, and vision needed to drive organizational growth and operational efficiency. He led enterprise-level process improvements—streamlining onboarding, enhancing financial systems, and strengthening corporate communications.

At Virginia Tech’s National Security Research Center, he drove strategic initiatives supporting a large and expanding portfolio of programs, secured dozens of new contracts through strong leadership and coordination, and managed the execution of several key programs.

Odge earned his BS from Old Dominion University and an MS in Computer Science from Naval Postgraduate School. Outside of work, he enjoys fly fishing, woodworking, and spending time with family.

Manuel Padilla Jr. | Board Member

Manuel Padilla Jr. is the principal and founder of MP Eagle Consulting, a leader in innovative security solutions tailored to the unique operational environments of its clients.

With more than 40 years of federal service, Mr. Padilla possesses a deep understanding of evolving security threats and challenges. He leverages unconventional strategies to deliver comprehensive security solutions across multiple industries and domains. His extensive expertise in risk assessments, threat mitigation, and strategic planning has earned him a reputation for providing practical, customized solutions that enhance the safety of the American people. Mr. Padilla continues to set new standards in the security field, offering forward‑thinking approaches that adapt to the ever‑changing landscape of security needs.

Throughout his distinguished federal career with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Mr. Padilla held numerous senior leadership roles. His final appointment was as Senior Advisor to the Commissioner of CBP, where he advanced operational coordination in Mexico and Central America in support of border and national security. Mr. Padilla also served as the Executive Assistant Commissioner (EAC) for CBP Operations Support. In this capacity, he provided leadership and direction across a broad spectrum of mission‑critical capabilities that enable CBP operations, overseeing eight subcomponents: CBP Watch; Laboratories and Scientific Services; Law Enforcement Safety and Compliance; Office of International Affairs; Planning, Analysis, and Requirements Evaluation; Office of the Chief Medical Officer; and the Mission Support Division.

Mr. Padilla has served as national level Chief of Law Enforcement Operations, overseeing the day‑to‑day law enforcement activities of twenty‑two (22) Border Patrol Sectors across the United States.

In 2018, he was appointed by the President of the United States as Director of Joint Task Force–West (JTF‑W) under the Department of Homeland Security’s Southern Border and Approaches Campaign Plan and has held the positions of Chief of the New Orleans, Tucson, and Rio Grande Valley Border Patrol Sectors.

Throughout his career, Mr. Padilla led and implemented numerous initiatives, including national level interagency operations, tactical operations, international engagement and coordination strategies, community engagement programs, and private/public ventures.

Mr. Padilla is a graduate of the CBP Senior Executive Service and a recipient of the FY2024 Presidential Rank Award.

Maclovio Yáñez Villagrán | Board Member

Since taking over the leadership of NUCLEO SEPEC in 2009, Yanez Villagran has driven a model of sustained growth based on operational diversification, cutting-edge technology, and specialized training. Today, the company has a portfolio that covers the entire life cycle of an oil well: from thermal cleanings, stimulation, to reconditioning with artificial production systems.

Its Technical Center in Villahermosa and the use of state-of-the-art simulators demonstrate a focus on continuous improvement, while its patents-such as ZOOK additives or the BLUE ZL WRAP sealing polymer-are evidence of a commitment to national intellectual property. Thanks to this strategy, NUCLEO SEPEC not only consolidated its leadership in Mexico working alongside PEMEX, but also extended its international presence, operating in Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, with active contracts and ongoing expansion.

Sandy Brooks | Board Member

Sandy is widely acclaimed for her achievements as an inspirational leader, and organizational and technological innovator that has positively advanced our national security posture and interests. She is widely recognized and respected for developing highly effective partnerships within DOD, Interagency, coalitions, partner nations, industry, academia and private consortiums.  Ms. Brooks has a long and successful history of leading highly dynamic and innovative technological change and providing the motivational and inspirational leadership that fosters a sense of urgency and passion at every level she engages. She is actively sought out by senior DOD, Intelligence and Interagency leaders for her advice and counsel.

Ms. Brooks has extensive experience in leadership positions to include almost a decade as a DOD senior civilian leader in Intelligence and a 28 year military career as a Naval Cryptologist/Information Warfare Officer that included command at senior levels. She accumulated a record of successes in progressively challenging assignments at the National, strategic, operational, and tactical levels and more recently as a private sector consultant.

Ms. Brooks was recognized nationally for her remarkable achievements as the 2010 recipient of the Service to America “Samuel J Heyman” Homeland Defense Medal. “By providing technical and intelligence support to the military, law enforcement agencies, and partner nations. She was selected from a field of 30 highly qualified candidates for her unprecedented work in enabling National authorities to better combat threats to our National security interests”  In 2016, Ms. Brooks was awarded the Office Director National Intelligence coveted National Intelligence Superior Service Medal for “contributions to the National Intelligence Community; distinguishing herself through meritorious actions to the betterment of national security in the United States of America, through sustained and selfless service of the highest order.”

Her military and civilian accomplishments illustrate highly effective motivational leadership and innovative “thinking” that serve this Nation well in countering the greatest challenges facing our national and global security interests.

Colin Myers | Board Member

Colin Myers is a US Navy veteran and a Manager at Comtech Systems Inc.  In his role at Comtech, Colin advises and supports the US military, allied nations, and US government agencies with risk mitigation strategies to overcome communication challenges for military operations and border security.

Colin served for nine years in the US Navy.   Colin first entered the Navy as a midshipman at the US Naval Academy in 2002, where he graduated and earned his commission as a naval officer in 2006.  Following the academy, Colin was accepted into the submarine service where he managed operations and maintenance of nuclear reactors on the USS WEST VIRGINIA and USS RHODE ISLAND and was certified by the Naval Nuclear Security Administration as a Naval Nuclear Engineer.  After serving as a nuclear supervisor, Colin assumed the role of communications officer and ship driver for his submarine.  As “COMMO” aboard the USS RHODE ISLAND, Colin supervised the receipt, transmission, and decoding of all submarine related messages, led the team of officers responsible for command and control of all nuclear missile launch orders and exercises, and was responsible for all submarine nuclear launch codes and cryptography.  As COMMO, Colin’s crew earned the USSTRATCOM 2010 Omaha Trophy Award as the #1 Strategic Communications Submarine in the US Navy.

Colin resigned from the US Navy in 2011 and settled in Central Florida to spend more time with his family—his wife Merrick, and daughters Peyton and Piper.  In 2013, Colin graduated with his MBA from Rollins College and worked in finance, marketing, and leadership roles at Darden Restaurants, Anthem Wealth Management, and Comtech Systems.  Colin additionally serves as General Manager and Wealth Advisor for a boutique financial firm, Thorium Wealth Management, headquartered in North Carolina.  In his downtime, Colin enjoys adventures with his wife and children, training Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, and playing table tennis.

Eletha Beckford-Smith | Board Member

Eletha is currently a National Client Partner of federal telecommunications at Verizon based out of the Washington, DC area. She is responsible for managing 4GLTE, 5G, IOT and M2M mobile communications for The Department of Homeland Security HQ and US Custom & Border Protection. Eletha along with her dedicated team of Solutions Architects, Client Executives and Critical Response teams focus on building strong relationships. Her team provides insight to what is possible, thought leadership and supporting the mission by delivering change through digital transformations. Eletha found her passion by interacting with companies and government agencies to provide solutions to obstacles that affected their mission. She has held multiple positions over her career with an increasing level of responsibility. Eletha takes pride in sharing a wide range of
support for critical communications and combining efforts to ensure federal agencies stay
connected across the country. In addition to her telecommunications background, Eletha has 10
years of experience in Business and Finance. Eletha is a WOW Alumni (Women of The World)
member that provides networking opportunities and sharing experiences with other members
pursuing career progression. She also serves as a current board member of one of Verizon
employee resource groups, Wireless Association of Verizon Employees (WAVE). Eletha takes an
active role allocating time for mentoring and volunteering at work and in her community to help
others explore new ideas for continued growth.

Eletha has earned a certification in Project Management, Bachelors degree in Business Management and Masters degree in Business Administration with a concentration in government acquisition. As both a proficient communicator and long term learner she has a great work life balance with a tenacity that both demonstrates a passion for continued education, creativity, leadership and teamwork. In her free time Eletha enjoys traveling with her husband on annual cruises to the Caribbean, spending time with her family and always being open to try new things.

Jonathan Ray | Board Member

Jonathan has worked in the Aerospace and Defense industry as a Software Developer, Systems Engineer, and Systems Architect designing / developing / delivering tactical airborne and ground ISR systems for the US Air Force. Jonathan has also designed ISR systems for the DOD Intelligence Community supporting strategic national security globally for over a decade. Jonathan is currently the Director of Commercial Products/Sensor Systems at Innovative Signal Analysis, Inc. in Richardson, TX managing the WAV technology family of products specializing in imagery surveillance and processing. Jonathan holds a Bachelors of Science in Computer Science and Industrial Engineering from Texas A&M University-Commerce and a Masters of Science and Engineering in Security Engineering from Southern Methodist University.

Randall V. Simmons | Board Member

Major General (Retired) Randall Simmons brings decades of senior military leadership, interagency collaboration, strategic planning, and homeland security experience to the Council.

During a distinguished career in the United States Army, Simmons held numerous positions of increasing responsibility, culminating in service at the general officer level. Most notably, he served as Commanding General of Joint Task Force North (JTF-N), where he led Department of Defense efforts supporting federal law enforcement agencies responsible for securing the nation’s borders and protecting the homeland.
His tenure at JTF-N required close coordination among the Department of Defense, Department of Homeland Security, federal law enforcement agencies, state and local authorities, and other government and community stakeholders. Through these partnerships, Simmons developed a deep understanding of the operational, technological, logistical, and policy challenges associated with border security, countering transnational threats, and homeland defense.

The extensive relationships and practical experience gained throughout his military service allow him to help responsible industry partners better understand government requirements and connect with the appropriate agencies and decision-makers. He works to bring government and industry together around credible solutions that enhance operational capabilities and contribute to the shared mission of protecting, defending, and securing the homeland.

Following his retirement from the Army, Simmons founded Eagle Creek Leadership Solutions, a private consulting firm specializing in executive-level leadership coaching, executive project management, strategic consulting, and business development. Through Eagle Creek, he advises executives and organizations navigating complex initiatives, building high-performing teams, developing strategic partnerships, and pursuing opportunities within the government and commercial sectors.

Simmons is recognized for his ability to bring diverse organizations together, translate strategic objectives into executable plans, and lead complex efforts requiring trust, accountability, and collaboration. As a board member of the Border Commerce and Security Council, he applies that experience to strengthening relationships among government, industry, and border communities while advancing practical solutions that promote both national security and lawful commerce.

Arif A. Mamedov | Board Member

Arif Mamedov is an executive officer at Regula who landed the company in the U.S. He is working to develop the company’s presence in the Americas, including North, Central, and LatAm regions. Arif has a solid history directing sales, and spearheads the go-to-market strategy design and implementation to deliver bottom-line results and accelerate Regula’s growth. He personally runs large-scale projects, cultivating partnerships with enterprise-level companies and government authorities, such as the U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Department of Homeland Security, and Department of State.

He is a customer-facing person and an innovation champion at the same time, so he brings customers’ requirements directly to the Regula R&D team. This helps the company introduce new technologies that meet and exceed the needs of organizations.

Arif graduated from Oklahoma State University where he got a Ph.D. in chemistry and the Research Excellence Award.

Martin Petriccione | BOARD MEMBER

A Leader in Biometrics

With two decades of experience in the biometrics industry, Martin Petriccione is a highly respected business development executive. Serving as the Vice President for North America at Integrated Biometrics for over ten years, Martin has been instrumental in driving substantial growth and innovation. His market insight and expertise have been pivotal in the development of new products and technologies, including Integrated Biometrics’ light emitting sensor (LES) technology and cutting-edge high-resolution, touchless fingerprint technology.

Martin is known for his strategic vision, commitment to excellence, and deep understanding of technological advancements in identity verification and security. He is recognized for his knowledge, integrity, passion, work ethic, and collaborative style. Martin’s customer-centric approach ensures that client needs and feedback are at the forefront of every project, fostering strong, long-term relationships and delivering exceptional solutions.

Martin has led major projects with the US Department of Defense, Customs and Border Protection, Border Patrol, and US Citizenship and Immigration Services. Prior to joining Integrated Biometrics, Martin held executive roles with Idemia and Crossmatch Technologies.

Integrated Biometrics (IB), a pioneer in biometrics technology, designs and manufactures advanced, high-resolution touchless identification software and the world’s most mobile, durable, and reliable FBI-certified fingerprint sensors.

Jon Lerette | Board Member

Jon Lerette is a Marine Corps veteran and expert in border security technologies, operations, and domain awareness.  As the chief executive officer and co-owner of Elevated Technologies, Jon leads a team of technology professionals and operations experts to innovate solutions that enhance and optimize mission capabilities across the Departments of Defense and Homeland Security.