David Popelier of Acclaim Technical Services has won WashingtonExec’s Chief Officer Award for CEO of the Year (Private Company, annual revenue greater than $100 million and less than $500 million).
On June 2, WashingtonExec unveiled the winners of the 2026 Chief Officer Awards, its premier recognition of the executives shaping the future of government contracting. This annual can’t-miss event celebrates bold, innovative leaders across government and industry.
The event took place at The Hilton in McLean, Virginia, where over 500 attendees came together for a memorable in-person luncheon.
In his finalist Q and A, Popelier discussed ATS’ transformation into a leading provider of technology services and solutions and talked about how following your passion and taking risks in your career are keys to success.
“I got into management and leadership because I’m passionate about people—there is nothing more satisfying to me than helping talented individuals develop and grow their careers, and we do that all the time at ATS as we promote new leaders and managers and provide individual contributors with the resources and opportunities to have the most impact as possible,” Popelier said.
Along with the government and industry winners, John G. Edwards, president of the CIA Officers Memorial Foundation, was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award. This award recognizes Edwards for his decades of exceptional service to the nation, marked by transformative leadership at the CIA and an enduring commitment to its people and mission.
WashingtonExec extends its gratitude to its silver sponsors, KippsDeSanto & Co. and Morgan Stanley; to its award sponsor, M&T Bank; and to its many table sponsors for their generous support.