Dr. Jason Smith serves as a professor at the National War College, where he teaches courses on strategy, U.S. politics, national security, and decision-making. Prior to joining the War College, he served as Strategic Advisor and Communications Director to the Commandant of the Coast Guard, providing high-level counsel on messaging, threat identification, and strategic positioning.
Previously, he was Director for Legislative Affairs at the National Security Council, where he led the Administration’s legislative strategy and Congressional engagement on national security issues. He also served as Senior Policy Advisor on the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, specializing in maritime and security policy and helping to advance several major legislative initiatives.
A dual-service veteran, Jason served as an aviator in both the U.S. Coast Guard and U.S. Army. He has led soldiers and sailors through three combat deployments, nine afloat missions, and numerous emergency response operations—including Hurricane Katrina, where he personally helped rescue over 200 lives. His experience spans the operational and strategic levels, working with state, federal, tribal, and international partners.
Jason holds a Ph.D. from George Mason University, a Master’s in Public Administration from Harvard University, a Master’s in International Relations from St. Mary’s University, and a from Sam Houston State University.
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