An experienced government affairs leader based in Alexandria, Virginia, Van Hipp founded American Defense International, Inc., in 1995. In his position as chairman, he collaborates with many of the leading policy makers in Washington, DC. Under his guidance, the American Defense International team provides government officials with valuable insights into strategy and program development. Van Hipp also works with major international businesses across a variety of industries. Throughout his career as a government relations leader, he has been featured as an expert commentator on Fox News, CNN, MSNBC, and other media outlets on numerous occasions.

In addition to his work at American Defense International, Van Hipp is a veteran of the United States Army. He played a critical role during Operation Desert Storm, which involved overseeing the majority of Army Reserve Force mobilization activities.

Van Hipp studied economics at Wofford College. He was a member of the Pi Kappa Phi fraternity. He continued his education at the University of South Carolina in Columbia, earning his juris doctor. He sits on the National Capitol Board of Advisors for the Salvation Army and formerly chaired the organization’s Alexandria location.