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Brig. Gen. Donald Quenneville spent three decades flying fighter jets and leading troops in the U.S. Air Force and Massachusetts Air National Guard, even leading the guard's response in the days following the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.
After retiring last summer, he stepped into the public policy field, becoming the executive director for the Massachusetts Defense Technology Initiative in January.
Quenneville has used his brief time at DTI to expand the group's focus beyond Massachusetts to the greater New England region.
He is continuously meeting with military, government, academic and industry representatives to find ways the local defense-technology industry can meet the future needs of the armed forces, especially when it comes to some of the area's smaller contractors. And DTI has been at the forefront of Massachusetts' push to have the Air Force Cyber Command headquarters located at Hanscom Air Force Base in Bedford.
Quenneville recently sat down with BBJ reporter Jackie Noblett to talk about his military career and his new job.
Where did you get the nickname "Q"?
All fighter pilots have call signs, and that was my call sign. When you get to be a certain rank, they give you your own plane and so mine said Donald "Q" Quenneville.
What is one thing you miss about the Air Force?
I just got the opportunity to talk to a lot of really interesting people. Every time I saw the new kids come along, I was amazed by their dedication and skill.
Best part of your new job?
I've got an opportunity to deal with folks in industry, academia and government, and they all seem to be excited about defense technology and that's nice to see. I also love all the interesting people I work with. It's a small office, but they're really neat people and they've got really intriguing backgrounds.
Definition of a perfect day?
My wife and I constantly talk about how blessed we are. There are a lot of things I've said I wanted to do and I've done them; we've raised five daughters and have six grandkids. I guess it's just appreciating what we have.
Pet peeve?
I don't like people who aren't genuine.
Do you have any role models?
I've had the good fortune to be around a lot of great people in the military. I tend to look at them collectively as a role model.
What do you do to unwind?
I love playing golf. I really need to get back to playing more.
Words that describe you?
Firm, but fair.
Favorite movie?
Of course I've got to love "Top Gun." It's about fighter pilots.
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