Christopher Riley

Christopher Riley serves as the Director of Innovation at FISTA Innovation Park, where he leads efforts to expand STEM opportunities and foster a culture of innovation across Southwest Oklahoma. In this role, Chris connects industry, education, and community partners to develop programs that inspire curiosity, strengthen workforce pipelines, and drive growth in science, technology, engineering, and math.

Originally from Metro Detroit, Chris retired from the U.S. Army in July 2023 after a distinguished 23-year career. His service culminated as the First Sergeant of the 15th Transportation Company at Fort Sill, where he led and supported 205 Soldiers. Throughout his military career, he specialized in operations management, logistics, and transportation, completing five deployments and earning more than 40 military and civilian awards, including the Order of Saint Barbara and the Order of the Royal Defuzilier.

Chris’s professional journey has taken him across the globe — from Germany, Korea, and Japan to stateside posts in South Carolina, Wisconsin, Tennessee, Kansas, and Hawaii — experiences that broadened his worldview and strengthened his ability to adapt, collaborate, and lead in diverse environments.

A dedicated learner, Chris is a member of Alpha Sigma Lambda and the Golden Key International Honor Society, reflecting his commitment to academic excellence alongside professional achievement.

When he’s not championing innovation and STEM initiatives, Chris enjoys time with his family, exploring the outdoors, hiking local trails, and taking in concerts and theater performances.