Joseph Heaps

Joe Heaps is Chairman of the Board. He retired from U.S. Federal service in 2025 after more than 32 years that included research roles at the U.S. Department of Justice, policy roles at the Federal Communications Commission, and active duty as a Commissioned Naval Officer as an Aviator and in the Space and Electronic Warfare Community. During his time at the National Institute of Justice, Joe became deeply involved in work related to the intellectual and developmental disability (IDD) community, supporting efforts to improve safety, technology, and justice outcomes for individuals with IDD and their families.

In addition to his federal service, Joe served as Vice President of Business Development at AstroVision International, a commercial satellite remote sensing company, and worked in fixed income portfolio investment management at T. Rowe Price Associates. Joe and his wife Joy founded and run Heaps Strategy Group, LLC, a consultancy that operates at the intersection of public safety and technology. Their shared vision is a safer world, and that mission guides their work across communities, agencies, and industry partners, including their commitment to strengthening safety and support for autistic individuals and those with IDD through NASC. Joe has been honored as the recipient of APCO International's Leadership in Advocacy Award and is a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars. Connect with Joe on LinkedIn. 

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