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Our Story
After decades in construction, project management, and supply chain logistics, the founders of AEY Inc. recognized a critical gap: the underrepresentation of disabled veterans in both private and public contracts at the state and federal levels.
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Determined to change this, they launched AEY Inc. with a mission to elevate and empower veterans—creating real opportunities in industries where their skills, discipline, and leadership are invaluable.
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One of our co-founders, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran with two combat deployments to Afghanistan, understands firsthand the commitment and resilience veterans bring to the workforce. Backed by 50+ years of combined industry experience, our team is driven to not only deliver world-class services but to expand representation and inclusion for disabled veterans in the industries that shape our nation.
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At AEY Inc., we don’t just talk about making an impact—we build it.
Our Mission
Our mission is simple:
Everything we do, we do lean.
Everything we build, we optimize.
Every commitment, we honor.
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Lean. Optimized. Committed.
About Us
At AEY Inc., we approach every project with the same integrity, precision, and dedication that defines those who have served our country. As a certified Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise (DVBE) and Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB), we take pride in delivering exceptional solutions across logistics, supply chain management, construction, and professional services.
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Backed by over 40 years of combined experience and a track record of managing over $7 billion in total project value, our team has supported some of the most complex and mission-critical projects across both the public and private sectors. With expertise cultivated at SpaceX, Amazon, UPS, and EssilorLuxottica, we bring a results-driven approach that optimizes operations, cuts costs, and delivers lasting value.
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At AEY Inc., accountability, efficiency, and excellence are at the core of everything we do. Whether serving as a prime contractor or strategic partner, we ensure flawless execution and complete follow-through—because success is built on trust, expertise, and relentless commitment to getting the job done right.
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Let’s build something great—together.
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Meet The Leadership
David Manning
A proven leader in global supply chain and logistics, David brings over a decade of experience driving large-scale operational excellence and cost efficiencies across SpaceX, Amazon, UPS, and EssilorLuxottica. A former U.S. Marine Corps infantry squad leader and machine gunner with two combat deployments to Afghanistan, David has applied his tactical leadership and strategic execution skills to complex logistics networks spanning 6 continents. With an MBA in Supply Chain Management and ongoing doctoral research in business strategy, he has directly managed projects cumulatively exceeding $2B in spend, optimizing global trade, network strategy, logistics, and procurement.
Karl Schaefer
Karl is a seasoned industry leader and licensed General Engineering and Building Contractor across multiple states. With a proven track record of driving projects from development through design and construction, he has successfully led organizations in delivering over $5 billion in construction value. His expertise spans a wide range of project types, utilizing both traditional and cutting-edge project delivery methods to achieve exceptional results.
Rian Caton
Rian is a highly skilled licensed General Contractor (B) with extensive experience in residential, commercial, and institutional construction. With nearly two decades in the industry, he has successfully led projects from concept to completion, overseeing pre-construction planning, execution, and post-construction closeout. His expertise spans custom home building, large-scale renovations, and commercial developments, ensuring high-quality craftsmanship and efficient project delivery. Rian’s hands-on leadership, deep industry knowledge, and commitment to excellence make him a trusted partner in construction and project management.