Location Arlington, Virginia, United States Regions Washington DC Metro Area, East Coast, Southern US Gender Male Also Known As Consultant
Website eric-schnabel.com/ LinkedIn View on LinkedIn X (Twitter) View on X
Eric Schnabel has built a career grounded in service, discipline, and leadership. With a deep sense of responsibility, he spent decades in uniform and continues to contribute to national security efforts. From his early days in the military to high-level roles in defense strategy, he has earned lasting respect among peers and colleagues.
His
service began in 1995 with an enlistment in the U.S. Army as an infantryman. He later earned a commission through the Virginia Military Institute, bringing both enlisted and officer experience into his leadership roles. Through airborne and Ranger training, he completed six combat deployments in Iraq, Afghanistan, and the Persian Gulf.
He served in both the 101st and 82nd Airborne Divisions, maintaining jump status for over 10 years and completing 82 jumps, earning him Master Rated Airborne Wings. His responsibilities grew over time, including commanding troops during Operation Iraqi Freedom and other missions in Afghanistan. These assignments involved capturing enemy combatants, managing unit operations, and leading through prolonged conflict.
In leadership roles within the 82nd Airborne Division, he worked as a Battalion Operations Officer and Executive Officer, overseeing units of more than 800 personnel and managing a parachute infantry battalion. His expertise in logistics, aviation support, intelligence, and training earned him several Bronze Stars.
Transitioning to policy and strategic planning, he served in the Office of the Secretary of Defense, the Joint Staff, and the Army Staff. As Deputy Director and Chief of the Assessments Branch, he supported planning across multiple military branches. His work with the Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence and his leadership as Director of Joint Integration helped secure support and funding for close combat initiatives across several commands.
After retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel, he entered the civilian sector in business development, working with organizations tied to defense, homeland security, and veterans' affairs. His approach remained focused on operational improvement and mission alignment.
Outside of work, he served in multiple community roles, including leadership in nonprofits and neighborhood governance. Above all, he values his family and considers his marriage and his daughter his most outstanding achievements. Eric Schnabel’s life continues to reflect the values that shaped his service.
