About NightKeel | Cybersecurity & Mission Resilience

Our Founding Companies

MBL Technologies (Managing Partner)
MBL Technologies is a mission-focused Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) with nearly two decades of experience supporting complex federal programs where security, privacy, and resilience are mission-critical. Founded on a commitment to disciplined execution, ethical delivery, and long-term partnerships, MBL built its reputation providing cybersecurity and privacy services to the Department of Health and Human Services and the Department of Veterans Affairs. Over time, the firm has expanded its markets, capabilities, and delivery scale while remaining grounded in its core values and continued service to Veterans and the broader community. Today, MBL leverages its foundational strengths in cybersecurity, privacy, and continuity of operations to drive outcomes across Business Enablement, Digital Services, and Mission Support, with a growing presence in Homeland Security and Defense environments. The company works shoulder-to-shoulder with government clients and teaming partners—whether providing cleared staff, enabling secure digital modernization, or applying emerging technologies to automate workflows and improve mission effectiveness. Backed by mature infrastructure, including ISO-aligned processes, CMMC readiness, contract vehicles, and robust recruiting capabilities, MBL delivers value as a trusted partner to both Government and industry partners.

‍AetherForge
AetherForge is a strategy-driven cyber firm specializing in offensive and defensive security, zero trust architecture, and technical advisory services for national security missions.

Leadership Team

Deb Yamanaka

Chief Executive Officer, AetherForge

Deb Yamanaka is the CEO of AetherForge, bringing over 40 years of experience in technology, cybersecurity, and emergency management, emphasizing a human approach to mission resilience. Known for her calm authority and strategic clarity, she advocates for trauma aware operational design and is an emerging voice in AI governance. Deb also leads with a team of trained service dogs, enjoys medieval sword fighting, shooting, and is a sci-fi enthusiast, while also finding purpose in her role as a grandmother.

Matt Buchert

CEO & President, MBL Technologies

Matt Buchert is a co‑founder of MBLTechnologies, a U.S. Navy veteran, and the Chief Executive Officer and Presidentof MBL. He brings decades ofexperience delivering secure, enterprise‑scale IT solutions across federalcivilian, homeland security, and defense environments. As a technologyexecutive and IT subject matter expert, Matt has led complex IT platformdevelopment efforts spanning software engineering, systems integration, DevSecOps,and program management—guiding programs from initial concept through fulllifecycle delivery to improve mission capability, resilience, and security. He leverages this experience in hisrole to set MBL’s strategic vision, approving growth and deliverystrategies, and establishing a long‑term governance model that ensuresdisciplined execution, compliance, and accountability. As the Managing Venturer, Mattwill play a central role in fostering external relationshipswith government customers and industry partners, promotingthe brand, and ensuring the Joint Venture is positioned as atrusted, mission‑aligned partner.

Courtney Schiffman

Vice President, Solutions Delivery (CISSP, PMP), MBL Technologies

Courtney has 25 years of experience as a trustedcybersecurity subject matter expert and advisor. She manages diverse portfolioswith a focus on enterprise risk management solutions, enabling secure missionoutcomes. She partners with stakeholders to transform security programs, matureservices, and to implement frameworks, automation, and human-centered processesto operationalize secure initiatives and reduce risks. She enjoys internationaltravel and can be found on the sidelines most weekends watching her kids playsports.

Val Collins

Chief Delivery Officer, AetherForge

Val Collins is the Chief Delivery Officer at AetherForge, bringing over 20 years of experience in intelligence, cybersecurity, and continuity planning. As a Navy veteran, she emphasizes resilience and adaptability in her leadership approach, fostering a culture of curiosity and experimentation. Outside of work, Val enjoys hiking, reading, and recreational shooting, and she values good strategy that allows for both structure and spontaneity.