DiSTI Leadership

John Hayward is the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the DiSTI Corporation, one of the world’s most experienced Training and Simulation companies and home to some of the most respected products around the globe, including GL Studio® and VE Studio®. A visionary leader, he has brought his extensive knowledge in the realm of Training and Simulation to DiSTI to further the company’s growth, drive expansion while improving the customer experience. With a talent for building and leading strong teams around him, John has already successfully implemented groundbreaking new business models and developed business objectives to sustain long-term growth for the company.

Jason Thagard brings over 25 years of experience in software development, project management, and strategic leadership. He holds both a Bachelor’s degree and a Master’s from the University of Florida. Additionally, he is a certified Project Management Professional (PMP) and has been actively involved in various industry associations. Prior to joining DiSTI, Mr. Thagard held key positions at several technology firms, where he was instrumental in driving growth and innovation. In his new role, he will oversee DiSTI’s operations, focusing on expanding the company’s market presence and enhancing its product offerings to meet the evolving needs of clients worldwide.

Alongside Joe Swinski, Bill, was an early pioneer in simulation instructional philosophies and network protocol standardization leading to the development of virtual maintenance training that has revolutionized the way operators and maintainers are trained on complex machinery. He leverages his passion for technology and buying power to ensure DiSTI delivers programs of the highest quality and best value for each and every program.

Kyle Menzel serves as the VP of Finance/Controller. He leads the finance team in delivering accurate value-adding financial information to support strategic business decisions. Recognized for his proven track record of utilizing technology to drive value-adding financial analysis, he brings necessary insight into data that helps drive strategic business decisions. Kyle brings the essential and best practices Big 4 public accounting experience, having worked at Ernst & Young. Having worked for Siemens, a Global 500 corporation, he brings financial management expertise that understands the challenges of both project-based profitability and leveraging analysis and financial tools to improve corporate efficiencies having led the Business Controlling Solutions Americas team.

Chris has been a trusted subject matter expert at DiSTI for 20 years. As the Chief Engineer at the DiSTI Corporation, Chris is a major stakeholder in tracking external technologies, tools, and techniques, along with internally influencing DiSTI’s technical solutions in proposals, designs, and implementations for both GL Studio and VE Studio product lines. Most recently, he has been instrumental in the evolution and successful design, architecture, and prototyping VE Studio-based projects using mixed reality display systems used militarily and commercially. In addition, Chris is also responsible for DiSTI’s VE Studio design, technical presentations, rapid prototypes, product support and upgrade tools. He holds a B.S. in Electrical Engineering from the University of Central Florida and is a regular speaker on VR/AR/Mixed Reality technology events held around the globe.

Steve Jackson is a Training and Simulation industry executive and recipient of the National Training Systems Association (NTSA) Governors Award for Lifetime Achievement in Training and Simulation with over 40 years of experience in a wide range of capacities, including business development, engineering, marketing, program management, and business operations. Focusing on defense-related systems, Steve leads DiSTI’s business development team in the identification, pursuit, winning, and management of new programs within DiSTI’s Virtual Training Solutions sector, covering aviation, land, and maritime systems for domestic and international customers.

Chris Giordano has been a landmark employee at DiSTI since 1999, managing several of the company’s program for Boeing, Hyundai, Jaguar Land Rover, Lockheed, NASA, and The Space Ship Company. Upon starting as an engineer, he quickly moved into a program management position where he controlled nearly 60 different visual programs and product managed for all DiSTI’s UI development tools. Over the past decade, Chris has played an important role as DiSTI’s VP of UX/UI Technology managing the GL Studio business unit, where he develops global sales positioning, distribution channels and new market strategies. Chris holds bachelor degrees in Finance and Computer Engineering graduating with honors.

Scott Ariotti brings more than three decades of expertise in the simulation, training, and digital transformation industries to his role as Director of Programs. Prior to his current role at DiSTI, Scott served as Senior Solutions Partner for Digital Twin Solutions at Unity Technologies and later as Senior Program Manager at Capgemini Government Solutions. An Aerospace Engineering graduate from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Scott also dedicates time to industry and community service, currently serving as VP of Memberships for the Sunshine Chapter of the Association of the Unity States Army (AUSA) and Chair for Special Events at I/ITSEC.

Dawn Haulter is a dynamic Marketing and Branding expert with over 20 years of experience specializing in brand identity, digital marketing strategies, and transformative content creation. With a keen eye for innovation, along with an ability to leverage a wide range of skills, she develops impactful campaigns that elevate DiSTI's market presence and drive engagement. Her expertise in crafting compelling brand narratives and leveraging a variety of platforms ensure that DiSTI remains at the forefront of the advanced software solutions industry.

Luis Londono, IT Security Manager at The DiSTI Corporation, is a dedicated cybersecurity professional with a proven commitment to protecting critical systems and data. A Warrant Officer in the United States Army, Luis brings exceptional leadership skills and a disciplined approach to IT security. His expertise in managing and mitigating risks ensures robust protection for organizational assets while fostering a company-wide culture of security awareness. Luis's leadership and military background position him as a trusted authority in safeguarding DiSTI's digital infrastructure and protecting the information of our clients.

Kathy Griffin is a seasoned Business Development professional, renowned for her expertise in proposal writing and strategic growth initiatives. With an exceptional talent for transforming complex program requirements into practical, fielded solutions, she plays a pivotal role in securing new opportunities and driving customer success. Her ability to navigate intricate challenges and deliver tailored strategies has been instrumental in advancing DiSTI's position as a leader in advanced software solutions.

Doug Classe, Director of Engineering at DiSTI, leads the development of VE Studio with a focus on innovation and excellence. He designs forward-thinking engineering solutions that meet the evolving needs of the industry. Renowned for his anticipating unforeseen issues, along with his gift for solving complex problems, Doug's commitment to delivering the best possible product ensures that customers received cutting-edge, reliable solutions. His work as solidified DiSTI's reputation as a leader in advanced software development.