News Category - Knight Federal Solutions

Knight Federal Awarded 2025 HIRE Vets Platinum Medallion Award for Excellence in Veteran Hiring and Support

Knight Federal Solutions is proud to announce that we have once again been honored with the HIRE Vets Platinum Medallion Award for 2025, the highest national distinction awarded by the U.S. Department of Labor for exceptional commitment to recruiting, employing, and retaining America’s veterans.

This year’s recognition marks our seventh HIRE Vets Medallion Award, and our fourth Platinum-level award, following consecutive honorees in 2019, 2023, 2024, and now 2025. From 2020–2022, Knight Federal earned the prestigious Gold Medallion Award, demonstrating a consistent, long-term dedication to supporting veterans at every stage of their career journey.

A Mission That Begins with Serving Those Who Served

At Knight Federal, our veteran-focused philosophy is not an initiative, it is part of our identity. Veterans represent a significant portion of our workforce, contributing leadership, mission understanding, and critical expertise across our modeling & simulation, intelligence, cybersecurity, and IT programs. Our commitment includes:

Competitive hiring and retention benchmarks that meet or exceed national standards
Dedicated professional development pathways for veterans
A company culture built on respect, mentorship, and long-term support
Active involvement in veteran-serving organizations and events

This dedication also includes our signature workforce development program, the Purple Knight Initiative (PKI), a paid internship pipeline that connects combat-disabled veterans to meaningful career pathways in fields aligned with their abilities and long-term goals. PKI reinforces Knight Federal’s commitment to ensuring that every veteran has access to opportunity, mentorship, and a supported transition into civilian employment.

In 2025, that commitment expanded even further. Knight Federal was named the V3 Governor’s Award Winner in the Medium Business category for excellence in veteran hiring practices, another achievement that reflects our pledge to ensuring meaningful, rewarding opportunities for those who have served.

“As a mission-driven organization, supporting the warfighter, and the veterans who once stood in that role, has always been central to who we are,” says Chris Baeten, CEO of Knight Federal. “Receiving the HIRE Vets Platinum Medallion Award again this year affirms that our commitment is both consistent and real. We are proud to serve those who have served our country, and grateful for the impact they make across our programs every day.”

A Culture Rooted in Core Values

Knight Federal’s continued recognition is also tied directly to its three core values:

Be Driven – advancing opportunities for veterans to excel in technical, analytical, and leadership roles
Serve Others – honoring the service of veterans through mentorship, advocacy, and career support
Value Reputation – upholding the highest standards in employment practices, integrity, and community partnerships

These values shape every decision and continue to establish Knight Federal as one of the nation’s most trusted small business partners in the defense and intelligence sectors.

Looking Ahead

As Knight Federal continues to grow, recognized as a seven-time Inc. 5000 honoree, Golden 100 company and Fast 50 leader by the Orlando Business Journal, our commitment to championing veteran talent only strengthens. The success of programs like the Purple Knight Initiative, combined with our long-term investment in veteran hiring, fuels our mission to serve those who have served.

Receiving the 2025 HIRE Vets Platinum Medallion Award is both an honor and a responsibility, and one we proudly carry forward into the years ahead.

Knight Federal Wins Virginia Governor’s Veterans Award for Veteran Hiring Leadership

Awards, News, Press Releases

Knight Federal Solutions, a federal contractor delivering specialized simulation and training, cybersecurity, IT, and intelligence analysis solutions to the Defense and Intelligence sectors, today announced it has been named the 2025 Virginia Values Veterans (V3) Governor’s Award Winner – Medium Business Category, recognizing the company for hiring the most veterans in the Commonwealth during the 2024 calendar year. The award was presented at the Virginia Veterans and Military Affairs Executive Forum on October 23, 2025, at the Greater Richmond Convention Center.

“This award is meaningful because it reflects who we are,” says Chris Baeten, CEO of Knight Federal. “Veterans bring mission focus, leadership, and resilience, qualities that strengthen our customers’ outcomes every day. We’re proud to hire, train, and grow veteran talent across our programs, and we’re honored to be recognized by the Commonwealth and the V3 community.”

Knight Federal also participated in a recognition employer panel during the Forum’s luncheon program, sharing approaches to recruiting, onboarding, and advancing veteran and military spouse talent.

Reinforcing its commitment to veterans, Knight Federal was also awarded the U.S. Department of Labor’s HIRE Vets Platinum Medallion, the highest federal honor for veteran employment practices, recognizing exemplary recruiting, hiring, retention, and professional development outcomes. Through its flagship apprenticeship, the Purple Knight Initiative, Knight Federal provides paid, skills-based pathways for combat-disabled veterans to build careers in simulation, cybersecurity, IT, and analysis while receiving mentoring and on-the-job training.

About Knight Federal Solutions
Knight Federal Solutions (KFS) is an Orlando-based federal contractor delivering specialized simulation and training, cybersecurity, IT, and intelligence analysis solutions to the Department of Defense, the Intelligence Community, and federal partners. A seven-time Inc. 5000 honoree, KFS is also a multi-year recipient of the U.S. Department of Labor’s HIRE Vets Platinum Medallion, recognizing exemplary veteran recruiting, retention, and professional development. Through its flagship Purple Knight Initiative apprenticeship, KFS creates paid, skills-based pathways for combat-disabled veterans to build careers in high-demand technical roles.

Virginia Values Veterans (V3) Program

Knight Federal Solutions Named to the Inc. 5000 List for a Remarkable 7th Consecutive Year

Awards, News, Press Releases

Only 1.46% of Companies Have Achieved This Distinction Since the List’s Inception

Knight Federal Solutions, a premier provider of simulation and training, cybersecurity, IT, and intelligence analysis services, is proud to announce its recognition on the 2025 Inc. 5000 list of America’s fastest-growing private companies – for the seventh year in a row.

This extraordinary milestone places Knight Federal among an elite group of just 788 companies, representing only 1.46% of all Inc. 5000 honorees, to earn this achievement since the list’s inception in 2007. The honor reflects the company’s steadfast dedication to growth, innovation, and mission-focused service.

“Earning a place on the Inc. 5000 for the seventh consecutive year is not just a milestone, it’s a movement,” says Chris Baeten, CEO of Knight Federal Solutions. “Our employees mean everything to us, and they are the main reason we have been able to grow consistently year after year. This recognition is a testament to our team’s resilience, our culture of integrity, and our relentless drive to serve our customers with excellence. We’ve grown because we listen, we care, and we deliver results that matter.”

The 2025 Inc. 5000 list showcases companies that have flourished in the face of labor market fluctuations, economic uncertainty, and global change. Among the top 500, the median three-year revenue growth reached 1,552%, and collectively, this year’s honorees added more than 48,678 jobs to the U.S. economy.

Knight Federal’s growth has been fueled by a commitment to national security and workforce development, underscored by initiatives like its Purple Knight Initiative, which empowers disabled veterans through meaningful career opportunities in government contracting.

As in previous years, the complete list, including company profiles and a searchable industry and location database, is available at www.inc.com/inc5000. The top 500 companies will also be featured in the fall issue of Inc. Magazine.

About Inc. and the Inc. 5000
Inc. Business Media is the leading multimedia brand for entrepreneurs. Its proprietary Inc. 5000 list, first published in 1982, analyzes company data to rank the fastest-growing privately held businesses in the U.S. Companies are ranked according to revenue growth from 2021 to 2024 and must meet rigorous eligibility criteria. For more information, visit www.inc.com.

Knight Federal Receives the HIRE Vets Medallion Award

Knight Federal Solutions: A Proud Supporter of Veterans Through the V3 Program and Purple Knight Initiative

Awards, News

At Knight Federal Solutions, our commitment to supporting veterans goes beyond words—it’s deeply ingrained in our mission and reflected in our actions. As a proud supporter of the Virginia Values Veterans (V3) Program and the creator of the Purple Knight Initiative, we are dedicated to empowering veterans as they transition into civilian careers, ensuring they receive the respect, support, and opportunities they deserve.

“Our commitment to veterans is deeply rooted in our core values. Through our support of the V3 Program and the Purple Knight Initiative, we strive to provide meaningful opportunities for those who have bravely served our country. We believe that veterans bring unparalleled skills and dedication to the workforce, and it’s our privilege to help them transition into civilian careers where they can continue to make a significant impact,” says Chris Baeten, CEO of Knight Federal Solutions.

Supporting Veterans Through the Virginia Values Veterans (V3) Program

The Virginia Values Veterans (V3) Program is a critical initiative designed to connect Virginia businesses with talented veterans who are ready to bring their skills, discipline, and leadership to the civilian workforce. By participating in this program, Knight Federal Solutions demonstrates our commitment to hiring and retaining veterans, ensuring they find meaningful and rewarding employment after their service.

Our involvement with the V3 Program is a natural extension of our values. Veterans possess unique skills and experiences that make them invaluable assets to any organization. Through this program, we are not only helping veterans transition into new careers, but we are also strengthening our own team with individuals who are driven, resilient, and mission-focused.

The Purple Knight Initiative: A Tailored Approach to Veteran Employment

Knight Federal Solutions is also the proud creator of the Purple Knight Initiative (PKI), a program specifically designed to bridge the gap between military service and civilian employment. The PKI focuses on connecting combat-disabled veterans with businesses that offer paid apprenticeships in fields that align with their abilities and career aspirations.

The Purple Knight Initiative is more than just an employment program—it’s a holistic approach to ensuring veterans have the resources, training, and support they need to thrive in their new roles. We work closely with veterans to identify their strengths and match them with opportunities that allow them to continue serving their country in a new capacity. The initiative emphasizes safety, welfare, and education, helping veterans transition smoothly into the civilian workforce.

“The Purple Knight Initiative is about more than just providing jobs—it’s about ensuring our veterans have the support and resources they need to thrive in their new careers. We take great pride in connecting disabled veterans with opportunities that align with their strengths and passions, empowering them to succeed in their post-military lives,” says John Nickerson, PKI Program Manager.

Recognized Excellence: HIRE Vets Platinum Award

Knight Federal Solutions’ dedication to veterans has not gone unnoticed. We are honored to have been recognized as a Platinum supporter by the HIRE Vets Medallion Program, the only federal-level program that recognizes employers for their commitment to veteran hiring, retention, and professional development. This prestigious award reflects our unwavering dedication to supporting those who have served our nation.

A Continued Commitment to Veterans

At Knight Federal Solutions, our commitment to veterans is an integral part of who we are. Through our support of the V3 Program, the creation of the Purple Knight Initiative, and our recognition as a HIRE Vets Platinum supporter, we continue to demonstrate our dedication to empowering veterans and ensuring their successful transition into civilian life.

We believe that veterans have already given so much to our country, and it is our duty to give back by providing them with the opportunities they deserve. Whether through employment, education, or support, Knight Federal Solutions is here to stand by our veterans every step of the way.

For more information about our initiatives and to learn how you can support veterans in your community, visit Knight Federal Solutions’ Purple Knight Initiative and the Virginia Values Veterans (V3) Program.

Knight Federal Awarded Prime Contract for Joint Readiness Training Center Support

Business Development, News, Press Releases

Prime Contract to Fortify Military Training

Knight Federal Solutions, a federal contractor delivering specialized simulation, training, cybersecurity, IT, and intelligence analysis solutions to the Defense and Intelligence sectors, is honored to announce its recent prime contract award for the Joint Readiness Training Center Support Contract (JRTCSC) as of March 2024. With a performance period of four years and seven months, Knight Federal is set to bolster the training capabilities at Fort Johnson, LA, by providing mission support services aimed at Large Scale Combat Operations (LSCO) training to forge the combat leaders of the future.

Knight Federal’s mission aligns with the Joint Readiness Training Center Operations Group’s goal of providing rigorous, multi-echelon training in a Decisive Action environment. This contract will enable the delivery of a mobile satellite communications capability that mirrors the communications infrastructure found in expected operational areas of rotational training units. This, combined with additional Cybersecurity services, will sustain the JRTC’s enterprise Authorization to Operate (ATO) renewal efforts and secure key facilities within the JRTC Information Security (IS) enterprise.

“Knight Federal is committed to enhancing the preparedness of America’s military forces,” says Chris Baeten, CEO of Knight Federal. “This contract underlines our pledge to deliver robust training solutions and supports our vision of strengthening the nation’s warfighter.”

Knight Federal continues to emphasize its strategic focus on high-quality training and support for the military, ensuring that nation’s armed forces are well-prepared for the challenges that lie ahead.

Knight Federal Solutions and SIMETRI Win DHA – COES2 Contract to Enhance Military Medical Training

Business Development, News, Press Releases

Knight Federal Solutions, in partnership with SIMETRI, Inc., is proud to announce the 5-year prime contract award of the Defense Health Agency (DHA) – Complicated Obstetrical Emergency Simulation System 2 (COES2) contract. This significant achievement underscores both organizations’ commitment to advancing medical training and simulation technologies to support Medical Simulation and Training Program Management Office (MST PMO).

The COES2 program provides cutting-edge training solutions for perinatal healthcare personnel, focusing on complicated obstetric emergency care. The purpose is to greatly reduce life-threatening risks to mothers and newborns at 49 military inpatient facilities worldwide for the Military Health System.

“Receiving the COES2 contract is a testament to our dedication to excellence and innovation in medical simulation,” says Chris Baeten, CEO of Knight Federal Solutions. “In collaboration with SIMETRI, we are excited to support the mission of enhancing the skills of military medical personnel, ultimately leading to improved patient care and safety.”

Angela M. Alban, President and CEO of SIMETRI, adds, “Our partnership with Knight Federal on the COES2 project allows us to leverage our expertise to deliver high-quality, evidence-based training that makes a real difference. We are thrilled to continue providing advanced medical training for the Warfighter.”

This contract not only highlights the capabilities of Knight Federal and SIMETRI in delivering comprehensive, realistic, and effective training solutions but also emphasizes their role in supporting the military’s focus on healthcare excellence.

For further information, please visit Knight Federal at https://knightfederal.com and SIMETRI at https://simetri.us.

Knight Federal Honored with the HIRE Vets Platinum Medallion for Commitment to Veteran Employment

Awards, News, Press Releases

Knight Federal is proud to announce that it has been awarded the HIRE Vets Platinum Medallion by the U.S. Department of Labor. This distinguished recognition is the highest federal honor for employers who demonstrate unparalleled commitment to recruiting, retaining, and professionally developing veterans within their organizations.

A Platinum Benchmark for Veteran Empowerment
The HIRE Vets Medallion Program highlights the extraordinary contributions that veterans make in the professional arena and honors those employers who elevate veteran recruitment to a core component of their corporate ethos. Knight Federal’s achievement of the Platinum Medallion stands as a resolute affirmation of our commitment to facilitating veterans’ seamless integration of their leadership, integrity, and advanced skill sets into our civilian work environment.

Veteran Integration and Success

At Knight Federal, supporting veterans goes beyond hiring. It’s about integration and success. Our programs ensure that veterans are not only welcomed but are also provided with the tools and support they need to thrive. From mentorship to continuous professional development, Knight Federal has established a comprehensive system that recognizes the unique strengths and potential of each veteran employee.

A Strategic Approach to Veteran Employment

Knight Federal’s strategic approach involves not just filling positions with veterans but matching them to roles that fully utilize their skills and provide room for growth. Our commitment to veteran employment is reflected in our proactive outreach, targeted recruitment efforts, and retention programs specifically designed for veteran employees.

Community Impact

The Platinum Medallion is more than an award; it’s a symbol of Knight Federal’s impact on the community. By investing in veterans, we’re contributing to a robust and diverse workforce. Our efforts extend to the local community, where we support initiatives and organizations dedicated to veteran welfare.

Paving the Way for Future Growth

This recognition fuels our drive to continue enhancing our veteran programs. We believe in building a future where veterans are recognized as key contributors to corporate success and are given the opportunities to shine in their second careers.

In conclusion, Knight Federal’s receipt of the HIRE Vets Platinum Medallion is not just a milestone but a steppingstone toward greater achievements in veteran employment. Our dedication is unwavering as we persist in establishing the benchmark for integrating veterans seamlessly into civilian careers.

The awardee map at HIREVets.gov/Awardees will be refreshed with the 2023 recipients throughout the morning of the 11/8/2023.

Knight Federal Solutions Earns 5x Spot on Inc. 5000 List

Awards, News, Press Releases

Accolade few select companies can tout time after time

Inc. magazine revealed that Knight Federal Solutions, a provider of simulation and training, cybersecurity, IT, and intelligence analysis solutions to the Defense and Intelligence sectors, is No. 3,060 on its annual Inc. 5000 list, the most prestigious ranking of the fastest-growing private companies in America. The list represents a one-of-a-kind look at the most successful companies within the economy’s most dynamic segment—its independent businesses. Facebook, Chobani, Under Armor, Microsoft, Patagonia, and many other household name brands gained their first national exposure as honorees on the Inc. 5000.

“Being included on Inc.’s 5000 list for the fifth year in a row is the crowning achievement for Knight Federal. No company is complete without its team, and this is exemplified by everyone within the company that represents our core values – be driven and value reputation. We are client centric meaning that we listen to our customers and always work hard to exceed expectations and therefore finding a trusted partner, truly pays off, as does your growth year after year with proven past performance, says Chris Baeten, CEO of Knight Federal.

The Inc. 5000 class of 2023 represents companies that have driven rapid revenue growth while navigating inflationary pressure, the rising costs of capital, and seemingly intractable hiring challenges. Among this year’s top 500 companies, the average median three-year revenue growth rate ticked up to an astonishing 2,238 percent. In all, this year’s Inc. 5000 companies have added 1,187,266jobs to the economy over the past three years. Knight Federal’s growth over this three-year period is 169%. It has earned a spot on the list for the past five consecutive years.

Complete results of the Inc. 5000, including company profiles and an interactive database that can be sorted by industry, region, and other criteria, can be found at www.inc.com/inc5000. The top 500 companies are featured in the September issue of Inc. magazine.

“Running a business has only gotten harder since the end of the pandemic,” says Inc. editor-in-chief Scott Omelianuk. “To make the Inc. 5000—with the fast growth that requires—is truly an accomplishment. Inc. is thrilled to honor the companies that are building our future.”

About Inc. Media.
Inc. Business Media is the leading multimedia brand for entrepreneurs. Through its journalism, Inc. aims to inform, educate, and elevate the profile of our community: the risk-takers, the innovators, and the ultra-driven go-getters who are creating our future. Inc.’s award-winning work reaches more than 50 million people across a variety of channels, including events, print, digital, video, podcasts, newsletters, and social media. Its proprietary Inc. 5000 list, produced every year since 1982, analyzes company data to rank the fastest-growing privately held businesses in the United States. The recognition that comes with inclusion on this and other prestigious Inc. lists, such as Female Founders and Power Partners, gives the founders of top businesses the opportunity to engage with an exclusive community of their peers, and credibility that helps them drive sales and recruit talent. For more information, visit www.inc.com.

For more information on the Inc. 5000 Conference & Gala, slated for October 31 -November 2 in San Antonio, visit http://conference.inc.com.

About Inc. 5000 – Methodology
Companies on the 2023 Inc. 5000 are ranked according to percentage revenue growth from 2019 to 2022. To qualify, companies must have been founded and generating revenue by March 31, 2019. They must be U.S.-based, privately held, for-profit, and independent—not subsidiaries or divisions of other companies—as of December 31, 2022. (Since then, some on the list may have gone public or been acquired.) The minimum revenue required for 2019 is $100,000; the minimum for 2022 is $2 million. As always, Inc. reserves the right to decline applicants for subjective reasons. Growth rates used to determine company rankings were calculated to four decimal places.

Knight Federal Announces Samantha Mooney-Outlaw as Chief Operating Officer

News

Knight Federal Solutions, a leading provider of innovative technology solutions, is pleased to announce the promotion of Samantha Mooney-Outlaw to the position of Chief Operating Officer (COO), effective July 18, 2023.

In her new role as COO, Ms. Mooney-Outlaw will be responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the company and driving its strategic growth initiatives. With more than 15 years of experience in the industry, she brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the position. Throughout her tenure at Knight Federal Solutions, Ms. Mooney-Outlaw has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership, operational excellence, and a deep commitment to the company’s mission and values.

“Samantha’s promotion to Chief Operating Officer is a testament to her outstanding contributions to our organization and her ability to lead and execute complex projects,” says Chris Baeten, CEO of Knight Federal Solutions. “She has been instrumental in driving our company’s success and has shown remarkable dedication to our clients, employees, and partners. We are confident that Samantha will continue to play a vital role in our growth and expansion.”

Samantha Mooney-Outlaw joined Knight Federal Solutions in 2014 as a Compliance Analyst and quickly rose through the ranks, holding various leadership positions within the company. Her strong analytical skills, strategic thinking, and exceptional interpersonal abilities have made her an invaluable asset to the organization. Ms. Mooney-Outlaw has successfully led teams in delivering innovative solutions to government agencies, ensuring the highest levels of customer satisfaction.

“I am honored and excited to take on the role of Chief Operating Officer at Knight Federal Solutions,” says Samantha Mooney-Outlaw. “I have been fortunate to work with an incredibly talented and dedicated team, and I am grateful for the trust and support of our leadership. I look forward to continuing our journey of providing exceptional services and solutions to our clients, while fostering a culture of excellence and innovation within the company.”

Samantha Mooney-Outlaw holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Information Management from Seminole State College. Additionally, she holds an Executive Leadership Certificate from Cornell University and is a recent graduate of Leadership Orlando – Class 103.

Knight Federal Celebrates 10 Years of Service

News

Knight Federal Solutions, a leading provider of simulation and training, cybersecurity, IT, and intelligence analysis solutions to the Defense and Intelligence sectors, is celebrating its 10th anniversary.

Since its founding in 2013 on May 6, Knight Federal has been committed to delivering innovative and high-quality solutions to its customers in the areas of defense, and information technology. The company has grown from a small startup to a recognized leader in the federal contracting space, with over 200 employees and operations in multiple states.

“We are proud to have reached this important milestone,” says CEO Chris Baeten. “Over the past decade, we have built a company that is focused on delivering value to our customers and providing meaningful career opportunities for our employees. We are excited to continue our growth and expansion in the years to come.”

Knight Federal’s success can be attributed to its commitment to its core values of being driven, serving others, and valuing reputation. The company’s innovative approach to simulation and training, cyber, IT and intelligence analysis solutions has earned it numerous awards and recognition, including the Fast 50 2023 List published by the Orlando Business Journal. The company has been listed on the Inc. 5000 list four times, earned repeated listings on the Washington Technology list of the fastest-growing government contractors and was the 2022 recipient of the ACG SMART Awards. In addition, the company has been recognized by HIRE Vets as a Gold Award Winner for consecutive years among other industry recognition.

To commemorate its 10th anniversary, Knight Federal is hosting a series of events and activities throughout the year to celebrate its employees, customers, and partners.

“We owe our success to our dedicated employees, loyal customers, and trusted partners,” says Baeten. “We look forward to celebrating this important milestone with them and continuing to deliver innovative solutions and exceptional service for years to come.”

Knight Federal Awarded 2025 HIRE Vets Platinum Medallion Award for Excellence in Veteran Hiring and Support

Knight Federal Wins Virginia Governor’s Veterans Award for Veteran Hiring Leadership

Knight Federal Solutions Named to the Inc. 5000 List for a Remarkable 7th Consecutive Year

Only 1.46% of Companies Have Achieved This Distinction Since the List’s Inception

Knight Federal Solutions: A Proud Supporter of Veterans Through the V3 Program and Purple Knight Initiative

Knight Federal Awarded Prime Contract for Joint Readiness Training Center Support

Prime Contract to Fortify Military Training

Knight Federal Solutions and SIMETRI Win DHA – COES2 Contract to Enhance Military Medical Training

Knight Federal Honored with the HIRE Vets Platinum Medallion for Commitment to Veteran Employment

Knight Federal Solutions Earns 5x Spot on Inc. 5000 List

Accolade few select companies can tout time after time

Knight Federal Announces Samantha Mooney-Outlaw as Chief Operating Officer

Knight Federal Celebrates 10 Years of Service

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