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Biography (Long)

Kevin Harkins is a retired U.S. Coast Guard officer, entrepreneur, and scholar whose career has been defined by service, leadership, and resilience. Born in Wyoming and raised in Arizona, his early years instilled in him a love of the outdoors, sports, and hard work, values that would shape a lifetime of purpose-driven leadership. 

Over a distinguished 24-year military career, Kevin commanded at sea, led operations during humanitarian and migration crises, and held senior policy roles at Coast Guard Headquarters and the Pentagon. He also served alongside the FBI and other federal agencies, earning a reputation for calm, mission-focused leadership in times of challenge. 

After retiring from active duty, Kevin founded Harkcon, Inc., a government contracting firm dedicated to helping federal organizations improve mission performance through people, systems, and culture. Under his leadership, Harkcon grew into a nationally recognized, service-disabled veteran-owned business known for integrity, innovation, and impact. He later co-founded two successful craft breweries—6 Bears & a Goat Brewing Company and The Port Oysteria and Brewery—bringing the same commitment to excellence and community spirit to the business world. 

Kevin holds a Ph.D. in Applied Management and Decision Sciences, uniting academic depth with practical experience in leadership, organizational effectiveness, and human performance. He continues to mentor leaders and advise organizations on strategy, culture, and execution. 

His memoir, The Hard Part Was the Point (Koehler Books, 2026), weaves together stories from his Wyoming roots, Coast Guard service, entrepreneurial ventures, and lessons learned through triumph and adversity. Through its pages, Kevin explores what it means to lead with purpose, live with integrity, and find meaning in the struggle itself. 

A seasoned executive and thoughtful storyteller, Kevin brings authenticity, humility, and insight to every stage and conversation. He and his wife, Paula, live in Virginia, where they remain active in their community, and occasionally raise a glass from one of the breweries he helped build.