Mark Ely is the Chief Executive Officer of the National Institute for Veterans, where he brings decades of military service, technical innovation, and leadership to an organization dedicated to empowering veterans and their families.

Mark proudly served in the United States Air Force for 12 years, spending a decade as a Crew Chief on fighter aircraft before transitioning into the medical field, where he worked as a medical technician in the emergency room. This blend of technical precision and frontline medical experience shaped his ability to operate under pressure and lead with discipline and compassion.

Beyond his professional duties, Mark represented the U.S. Air Force as a powerlifter, competing in military Olympic events and demonstrating the strength and perseverance that continue to define his career.

Following military service, Mark transitioned into information technology in 1997. As a software programmer and architect, he created VDAC and VDAC Agent, technology designed to help organize and simplify complex veterans disability-claim processes.

His experience in technology, combined with his firsthand understanding of military service and veterans' challenges, continues to guide his work modernizing systems intended to serve veterans.

Outside of his professional work, Mark enjoys flying drones and creating genealogy videos, reflecting his interests in exploration, history, technology, and storytelling.

His approach to leadership is guided by the belief that honor is defined by one's own actions, not by others, and by a simple philosophy: "Be the best you can be, and the rest will take care of itself."

Rachel Ely brings a blend of legal expertise, educational training, and a personal connection to the military community to her role as Chief Operating Officer of the National Institute for Veterans.

As a paralegal with experience helping individuals through complex legal and administrative processes, Rachel is committed to helping ensure veterans receive the benefits and recognition they have earned through their service.

Coming from a family legacy of military service stretching back to the Revolutionary War, and as a dependent of a U.S. veteran, Rachel has a personal understanding of challenges faced by veterans and their families.

Her background in education has strengthened her ability to explain complex information with clarity and patience. Those skills translate directly to assisting veterans and families navigating the often complicated VA disability system.

As COO, Rachel helps advance NIFV's mission by supporting organizational operations, accountability, service quality, and the respectful treatment of every veteran who turns to the Institute for assistance.