Kurt Wendt

Kurt Wendt joined Elara Nova in August of 2025. Prior to starting his consulting career, Kurt served as a Colonel in the US Air Force. During his 30-year military career, Kurt commanded the 501st Combat Support Wing, leading over 2,000 personnel across 8 bases in the United Kingdom and Norway, and overseeing U-2 and Bomber Task Force operations at RAF Fairford. His career also included extensive experience in air operations with significant expertise in Intelligence, Surveillance & Reconnaissance. As Operation INHERENT RESOLVE ISR Division Chief, Kurt led all ISR planning and execution for combat operations in the region, integrating all airborne ISR assets into the air campaign for the Combined Joint Task Force. He also served as Director of Intelligence for US Air Forces in Europe/Air Forces Africa, leading Air Force intelligence planning and operations across Europe and Africa. Kurt’s career culminated with his assignment as the Director of the Center for Character and Leadership Development at the US Air Force Academy in Colorado where he supported the Academy’s mission to graduate officers of character.

Colonel Wendt was commissioned in 1994 as a Distinguished Graduate of the U.S. Air Force Academy and subsequently completed a Master’s Degree program at the University of Maryland at College Park. A career intelligence officer, he served multiple tours at the squadron level, and as a Royal Air Force Exchange Officer in the United Kingdom. Kurt served in staff tours at Headquarters US Air Force, Headquarters US Central Command, and Headquarters US Air Forces in Europe/Air Forces Africa. He also commanded the 485th Intelligence Squadron in Germany.

Kurt deployed in support of Operations ALLIED FORCE, JOINT FORGE, NORTHERN WATCH, SOUTHERN WATCH, IRAQI FREEDOM, ENDURING FREEDOM and INHERENT RESOLVE.