BGI, LLC

At BGI, Thanksgiving holds special meaning. One of our favorite traditions comes from our CEO — the “go around the room gratitude” moment, where each person shares something they’re thankful for and something others may not know about them. It’s simple, but it never fails to spark connection, perspective, and appreciation.

This year, we’re reflecting on the two words that define the holiday: Thanks and Giving.

Living with thanks reminds us to pause and notice the good — our families, our opportunities, our health, our teammates, and the mission we’re privileged to support. Gratitude strengthens the culture that defines BGI.

Living with giving reflects the heart of who we are. Our team gives their time, experience, excellence, and energy in service to each other and to our warfighters. Giving builds trust, strengthens teams, and creates lasting impact.

Together, Thanks and Giving shape the kind of people — and the kind of company — we strive to be every day.

As we head into the holiday, we encourage everyone to share gratitude at home, with friends, and within your teams. Even a simple “thank you” can brighten a day and deepen connection.

We are grateful for our employees, partners, and the warfighters we serve. Thank you for your dedication, professionalism, and commitment to the mission.

From all of us at BGI, we wish you and your families a joyful, restful, and meaningful Thanksgiving.

Happy Thanksgiving from the BGI Team.

A Proven Leader at the Helm: Commander (Ret.) Christopher Townsend Steps into Senior Advisor Role at BGI

With a distinguished career spanning military aviation, commercial flight, and national defense leadership, Commander (Ret.) Chris “Towny” Townsend now serves as Senior Advisor at BGI, LLC — bringing unmatched experience, insight, and mission-driven focus to our team.

Over the course of 22 years in the U.S. Navy, Chris served as a P‑3C pilot, mission commander, instructor, and ultimately as Commanding Officer of Operational Support Unit 0355 in Orlando. His leadership in the cockpit was matched by his dedication to training and operational readiness across multiple platforms.

Following his military service, Chris continued his aviation career with Delta Air Lines, flying international routes aboard the Boeing 777 and Airbus A350. He rose to the position of Captain and A350 Line Check Pilot/Instructor, exemplifying professionalism, and precision at the highest level.

Since 2008, Chris has been a driving force in Central Florida’s modeling, simulation, and training community, serving as Senior Business Development Manager at BGI and building key partnerships across the defense ecosystem. His leadership extends well beyond industry — through the Navy League of the United States, he has served in multiple national roles, culminating in his election as the 52nd National President and Chairman of the Board in 2023. A Virginia Beach native and proud Floridian, Chris exemplifies integrity, service, and strategic leadership.

From the flight deck to the boardroom, Chris brings a powerful combination of operational excellence and strategic vision to every mission.

Bravo Zulu, Chris — we’re proud to have your leadership driving BGI’s continued growth and impact.

Happy 4th of July from BGI

On this day, we celebrate more than independence — we celebrate the enduring values that built a nation: freedom, resilience, and bold vision.

At BGI, we’re proud to be part of that American story. We move forward with purpose, driven by the same spirit that shaped this country — the freedom to innovate, the courage to lead, and the responsibility to make an impact.

Wishing you a safe, meaningful, and inspiring Independence Day.