Zach Albert serves as the Warfighting Integration Advisor for both the Institute of Future Conflict and the Directorate of Athletics at the U.S. Air Force Academy. In this role, he provides operational expertise to support the Academy’s mission of developing warfighting proficiency in future leaders, helping bridge the gap between modern combat demands and cadet preparation.

Drawing on extensive experience in Close-Quarters Battle (CQB) and other tactical disciplines, Zach brings a practical, mission-focused perspective to training and development. He works closely with Human Performance Optimization staff and members of the Directorate of Athletics to integrate physical, cognitive, and emotional readiness into cadet development, ensuring a comprehensive approach to performance under pressure.

His work emphasizes preparing cadets to meet the evolving challenges of future conflict through deliberate training, cross-functional collaboration, and a commitment to building resilient, adaptable leaders capable of operating in complex and high-risk environments.

Zach brings over 20 years of experience in U.S. Army Special Forces, including multiple combat and operational deployments across the Middle East, Africa, and Europe.