J.C. Lintzenich currently serves in Washington, D.C., as the National Security Advisor to United States Senator Thom Tillis, where he brings nearly three decades of experience to advise and support the Senator on a wide range of issues, including the Senator’s role in key bipartisan efforts such as the Senate NATO Observers Group and the Senate Taiwan Caucus.

During his military career, he served in several of our Nation’s most elite units, supporting critical intelligence and special operations initiatives that have had a lasting impact both at home and abroad. In his current role, he leverages the extensive expertise gained across the Department of Defense, Intelligence Community, and internationally to support North Carolina constituents in the national security space.

Mr. Lintzenich has held influential strategic roles that underscore his ability to navigate complex policy and defense issues at the national level. As Senior Military Advisor to the Director of National Intelligence, he enabled the DNI and senior IC leaders to better integrate defense and intelligence strategies—ensuring alignment across agencies and strengthening our national security posture. Serving as a Defense Policy Director within the Office of the Secretary of Defense, he advised on critical regional security challenges, advancing initiatives that have had a lasting impact on U.S. defense and foreign policy.

Throughout his career, he played a central role in advancing the intelligence capabilities and operational readiness of multiple organizations, often leading sensitive programs to address complex global challenges.

Mr. Lintzenich graduated from Valley Forge Military Academy and College in 1992 after attending four years of high school and served as 1st Captain, Regimental Commander in his fifth year as a college freshman before accepting an ROTC scholarship.

He is a graduate of Auburn University with a Bachelor of Science in Aviation Management and is a licensed private pilot. He earned his Master of Arts degree with distinction in National Security and Strategic Studies from the U.S. Naval War College.

In addition to serving on the Board of Trustees for the Valley Forge Military Academy Foundation, he also serves on the Board of Directors of the Association of Former Intelligence Officers and on the Volunteer Advisory Committee at the International Spy Museum. Throughout his career, he has been recognized with numerous awards for service, combat, and exceptional achievement.