Insight Shield Analytics

Empowering organizations in government, national security, and commercial industries to transform data into action, strengthen mission readiness, and drive sustainable growth.

Insight Shield Analytics

Empowering organizations in government, national security, and commercial industries to transform data into action, strengthen mission readiness, and drive sustainable growth.

STRATEGIC INSIGHT. DATA-DRIVEN INTELLIGENCE. MISSION-ALIGNED GROWTH.  |   STRATEGIC INSIGHT. DATA-DRIVEN INTELLIGENCE. MISSION-ALIGNED GROWTH.  |   STRATEGIC INSIGHT. DATA-DRIVEN INTELLIGENCE. MISSION-ALIGNED GROWTH.  |   STRATEGIC INSIGHT. DATA-DRIVEN INTELLIGENCE. MISSION-ALIGNED GROWTH.  |  

About Insight shield Analytics

Insight Shield Consulting, operating as Insight Shield Analytics, provides strategic advisory and analytics services designed to connect insight with execution. Founded by Ernie Hinojos, the firm blends 30 years of experience in national security, project leadership, and business growth to deliver practical, data-driven solutions across government and private industries.

Our Services

Strategic Business Development & Capture Support

Market analysis, proposal

strategy, and partner matchmaking for mission-focused projects.

Government Contracting & Grants Advisory

Assistance with certifications, grant

acquisition, and compliance across federal, state, and local levels.

Operational Analytics & Systems Integration

Building efficient workflows, dashboards, and AI-driven insights for improved readiness and execution.

Leadership & Mentorship

Executive coaching and organizational design fostering adaptability, innovation, and collaboration.

Trusted By & Affiliations

  • Catapult Growth Partners

    Catapult growth partners logo

    Catapult Growth Partners (CGP) leverages AI-driven solutions and deep expertise to support government, industry, public, and private contract pursuits. With over 400 years of combined experience, CGP provides tailored services and automation tools through its DataRoom AI platform to streamline pipeline management, accelerate capture, and automate proposal development, enhancing efficiency and competitiveness across diverse contracting landscapes.

    LEARN MORE
  • Defense Intelligence Agency

    DIA logo

    The Defense Counterterrorism Office (DCTO) is the DIA’s central hub for counterterrorism intelligence—integrating all-source analysis, coordinating across agencies, and delivering actionable insights that protect U.S. interests worldwide.   


    In a demanding role at the National Joint Intelligence Operations Center (NJOIC) Counterterrorism (CT) team, I oversaw day-to-day operations, training, and crisis management, providing unparalleled support to the Pentagon. My participation in the warning decision-making process ensured the maintenance of high standards across the office, and I effectively represented analytic equities to the Joint Staff J2 Warning Team. My leadership in coordinating the daily threat summary delivered critical, executive-level insights on terrorist activities, significantly enhancing situational awareness. 


    My duties extended to leading high-stakes senior leader syncs, facilitating coordination across law enforcement and intelligence communities to prioritize and address the most pressing threats. This role demanded exceptional analytical skills and the ability to synthesize vast amounts of information into actionable intelligence. As the Watch Cell coordinator during crucial operations, such as the evacuation of US persons, my strategic oversight ensured seamless operation and coordination of NJOIC requests for time-sensitive reporting, directly supporting the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff’s directives.


    Elevated to Team Chief, and acting Branch Chief, for the Emerging Threats Branch, I supervised the Homegrown and Insider Terrorist Threats team, optimizing our intelligence delivery by fostering relationships and understanding customer needs for the FBI. This involved navigating complex inter-agency coordination, enhancing our branch's intelligence capabilities, and speeding up our response to emerging threats. My leadership not only involved task supervision but also the strategic development of intelligence requirements to support the Department of Defense and enhance national security.


    My supervision of embeds with the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force and collaboration with the Combat Terrorism Center at West Point, among others, exemplified my ability to operate at the intersection of military and civilian intelligence efforts. These roles showcased my expertise in coordinating responses to domestic and international terrorist threats, ensuring the safety of DoD personnel and US allies.

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  • Combatting Terrorism Center

    Ctc logo

    ctc.westpoint.edu/ 


    “The Combating Terrorism Center at West Point educates, advises, and conducts research to equip present and future leaders with the intellectual tools necessary to understand the challenges of terrorism and counterterrorism.” 

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  • Discovery Channel | Watch Naked and Afraid

    Man aiming a bow and arrow, featured in a "Naked and Afraid" Discovery show promo.

    Naked and Afraid: Last One Standing on Discovery | Discovery 


    Naked and Afraid is an American reality series that airs on the Discovery Channel. Each episode chronicles the lives of two survivalists (1 woman; 1 man) who meet for the first time and are given the task of surviving a stay in the wilderness naked for 21 days. After they meet in the assigned locale, the partners must find and/or produce potable water, food, shelter, and clothing within the environment.  

    One man and one woman, who meet for the first time in the nude, are paired and tasked with surviving in some of the world's most extreme environments for 21 days with no food, water or clothing. 

    WATCH NOW
  • Grantflow

    grant flow logo

    Grantflow provides specialized software and services to streamline grant application, management, and renewal processes. Their offerings include "grants intelligence," advanced technology, and expert support to enhance grant acquisition, tracking, and strategy. With a predictable monthly cost structure, Grantflow enables clients to save time, stabilize their grant-seeking efforts, and improve access to funding opportunities, supporting $245 million in grant wins for our clients.

    LEARN MORE
  • Deep Water Point & Associates

    Logo of Deep Water Point & Associates, featuring a geometric arrow shape with a teal and orange color scheme.

    Deep Water Point & Associates offers a unique combination of government and industry expertise to help businesses grow in the complex federal market. Our comprehensive range of growth services includes business development, capture and proposal, transaction advisory, strategy and management consulting, and market intelligence, making us the go-to consultancy for businesses seeking growth in the federal market.

    LEARN MORE
  • Alethia Labs

    Alethia Labs logo

    Alethia Labs is a Virginia-based 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that partners with government agencies to advance technology adoption through specialized education, training, and strategic initiatives. Their services include data analytics, AI/ML, STEM education, acquisition services, and technology engagement, aiming to enhance efficiency and security in public sector operations.

    LEARN MORE
  • US Army

    US Army seal with a central gold breastplate, flags, and text "Department of the Army, United States of America".

    Military Intelligence Officer — Various Locations | 30 Years of Service
       

    As an All-Source Intelligence Officer, Ernie led and managed intelligence operations supporting both domestic and international missions. He directed HUMINT and SIGINT collection, analysis, and dissemination to deliver actionable insights that informed strategic and tactical decision-making. In this role, he oversaw cross-functional teams, integrated intelligence assets, managed security operations, and briefed senior military leadership on emerging threats, cyber operations, and global security environments. His experience spans cross-functional team leadership, project management, operational and strategic planning, project risk and control, budgeting, and scheduling.

  • Arkansas Army National Guard

    Arkansas Army National Guard Logo

    Military Intelligence Commander & Strategic Advisor — Little Rock, AR | 2013 – Present
       

    Served as Commander of the Military Intelligence Company (MICO) and State Partnership Program Officer in Charge for intelligence cooperation with Guatemala’s naval and intelligence leadership. Led the development of international UAV-based intelligence architecture and coordinated joint training and assessment initiatives to enhance regional security and counter-narcotics capabilities. Provided strategic guidance to senior leadership on intelligence integration, operational readiness, and emerging defense technologies.  

  • U.S. Department of State

    Seal of the U.S. Department of State: eagle holding arrows and olive branch, surrounded by text.

    Eastern European Affairs — Washington, D.C.
       

    Supported diplomatic initiatives and foreign policy research for the Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs, contributing to strategic analysis on political and security developments in Eastern Europe. Assisted in policy coordination, briefing preparation, and official communications for senior diplomats, including the drafting of formal State Department correspondence and international messaging.  


    Out of 10,000 applicants to the State Department, I was selected to serve as one of the two interns for the Central European Bureau for the Department of Central European Affairs.  Routine assignments included administration and clerical support through the drafting of reports, spreadsheets, meetings and email correspondence /coordination within and exteriorly to the department.  Special meetings included briefing department heads on current events and expectations in the SCIF (Sensitive Compartmented Information Facility). Special activities included the scheduling for the Ambassador to Poland within the Department of Defense, Department of State, and the swearing in ceremony for the Ambassador to Austria. I wrote the National Day address for the Secretary of State for the Switzerland and Lichtenstein Independence Day.  

  • Volt Carbon Technologies

    Logos of Volt Carbon Technologies and Solid UltraBattery Inc., battery R&D subsidiary.

    Strategic Advisor of Risk Mitigation and Business Development Consultant  


    Ernest “Ernie” Hinojos is an accomplished strategic advisor with over 30 years of combined service in the U.S. Army and private sector consulting. He is recognized for his proven track record in guiding organizations through growth, transformation, and risk mitigation while delivering measurable value to stakeholders and investors alike. As a U.S. Representative and Advisor for Volt Carbon Technologies, Ernie supports Volt’s North American expansion and international growth strategies. He leverages his deep experience in business development, operational strategy, and market entry to help position Volt as an industry leader in advanced carbon and clean energy technologies. Drawing on his certification as an Agile Scrum Master, Ernie advises on streamlining complex projects, strengthening team collaboration, and ensuring that deliverables remain aligned with strategic goals.      

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  • InQuisient

    inquisient logo

    Strategic Integration Advisor — Washington, D.C. | 2022 – 2023


    Developer of a data management platform intended for merging data integration and metadata management. The company's platform helps in enterprise architecture and technology asset management, portfolio and project management, risk modeling, and process optimization, enabling clients to make decisions and execute initiatives to accelerate their businesses.    


    Supported enterprise data management and analytics integration for defense and federal clients using InQuisient’s enterprise architecture tools. Provided subject matter expertise on aligning complex data governance structures with mission-driven intelligence objectives to improve situational awareness and operational decision-making.

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Integrity

Mission-First

Mindset

Collaboration

Innovation

Results Through Insight

About Ernie

"When insight meets execution, impact follows."

Ernie Hinojos is the founder of Insight Shield Consulting/Insight Shield Analytics. With over 30 years of leadership across national security, policy, and analytics, he brings a depth of knowledge and expertise to his clients. Ernie has a versatile background, even appearing twice on the Discovery Channel's Naked and Afraid. Having served as a US veteran, police officer, and Boy Scout, Ernie is passionate about patriotism and serving his country.


Ernie's mission is to bridge the gap between government, defense, and the private industry by delivering strategic business development, intelligence-informed insights, and technology-enabled solutions.


His decades of experience in military intelligence, federal program management, and strategic consulting allow him to:


  • Help organizations optimize operations and achieve sustainable growth
  • Provide trusted advisory services for federal contracting, defense-sector initiatives, and community-focused programs
  • Empower minority, veteran, and mission-driven enterprises with the tools, networks, and insights to compete at the highest levels.


He is experienced in mission operations, data systems, UAS technology, and strategic planning. He also serves as a key participant in assisting the Arkansas Army National Guard in building the Army 2030 UAS mission architecture. Additionally, Ernie is a certified Agile Scrum Master with advanced skills in ArcGIS, Tableau, cybersecurity, and systems analysis. As a proven collaborator connecting senior leadership with emerging technologies and actionable insights, he helps clients reach their goals.


Furthermore, Ernie engages in several volunteer projects, including a project to get prosthetic limbs to Ukraine. He serves as a senior advisor for GrantFlow, which has supported over $240 million for non-profits. Ernie brings the highest level of dedication to every project.

partnerships & collaborations

Blue light streaks converge on a central black void, creating a tunnel effect.

Volt Carbon Technologies

Volt Carbon Technologies develops advanced battery and energy storage systems using next-generation carbon materials. Recent announcements highlight new Li-metal phosphate testing and expansion into clean-energy markets. Ernie advises on international business growth and market expansion, helping align technology with global demand and commercial collaboration strategies.

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Catapult Growth Partners (CGP)

Catapult Growth Partners provides strategic growth advisory services and AI-enabled solutions to organizations pursuing federal and commercial contracts. Public releases

emphasize their data-driven capture management and market acceleration models. Ernie serves as a partner focusing on business development, opportunity capture, and AI-enabled growth frameworks, ensuring efficient pursuit of mission-aligned opportunities.

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GrantFlow

GrantFlow helps organizations secure, manage, and renew funding using AI-powered grant intelligence tools. They have supported over $245 million in successful grant awards. Ernie is a Senior Advisor guiding organizations on federal contracting and funding strategies, integrating GrantFlow’s tools to streamline program management and compliance.

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Regroup Staffing

Regroup Staffing provides workforce solutions and staffing support for national security and commercial programs. Ernie collaborates on business development and talent acquisition, ensuring client missions are supported with skilled and credentialed professionals.

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InQuisient

InQuisient delivers data governance and enterprise performance solutions for agencies and corporations. Ernie drives new client engagement and solution alignment across federal and private sectors as a business development partner.

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STRATEGIC INSIGHT. DATA-DRIVEN INTELLIGENCE. MISSION-ALIGNED GROWTH.  |   STRATEGIC INSIGHT. DATA-DRIVEN INTELLIGENCE. MISSION-ALIGNED GROWTH.  |   STRATEGIC INSIGHT. DATA-DRIVEN INTELLIGENCE. MISSION-ALIGNED GROWTH.  |   STRATEGIC INSIGHT. DATA-DRIVEN INTELLIGENCE. MISSION-ALIGNED GROWTH.  |  

News & Highlights

Volt Carbon Technologies

announces new test results for Li-metal phosphate batteries and innovation in energy storage.

Catapult Growth Partners

launches advanced AI capture systems to streamline federal and commercial growth.

GrantFlow

surpasses $245M in successful grant funding for client partners across

multiple sectors.

Contact Us

Schedule a Discovery Call with Ernie.

(915) 760-3070

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