During an 18-year career at General Dynamics, Richard Coleman rose through the ranks and eventually became one of the youngest vice presidents in the company’s history. However, Coleman eventually decided to embark on a new journey and join Axon.
“I felt very aligned with their mission to protect life, capture truth and accelerate justice,” Coleman said. “Even more, I felt applying this mission to federal civilian and military markets had the potential to change the world. I made the leap to Axon, and launched their federal business, which was by far the biggest risk I’ve ever taken in my career.”
Axon is a public safety technology company that envisions a world where bullets are obsolete, social conflict is reduced and everyone has access to a fair and effective justice system. The company’s revenue is tied to devices, software or services designed for public safety and promoting social good. Axon is known for its TASER devices, which are the safest and most effective less-lethal force option used in public safety. The devices have saved over 246,000 lives that could have otherwise been lost to lethal force, the company said.
In addition to TASER devices, Axon is a leading provider of body cameras and digital evidence management for law enforcement agencies in the U.S. Axon also invests in artificial intelligence, particularly in areas like redaction, to balance freedom of information with individual privacy rights in body camera videos.
Under Coleman’s leadership, Axon’s Federal business experienced remarkable growth, increasing from $20 million in his first year to more than $200 million in 2022. In recognition of his exceptional contributions, Coleman was named the first president of Axon Federal.
Through Coleman’s efforts, major federal law enforcement agencies, including the Department of Homeland Security, Department of Justice and Department of the Interior, have chosen Axon as their body-worn camera system provider. Coleman has also been instrumental in promoting de-escalation programs and deploying TASER devices.
Coleman envisions Axon Federal becoming the fastest-growing government contractor, surpassing $1 billion in revenue within the next five years. His goal is to enhance transparency and accountability in federal law enforcement, with the complete adoption of Axon’s products, resulting in a significant reduction in gun-related deaths involving police officers and the public.
Coleman’s received the Axon Top Sales Executive award in 2019, 2020 and 2021. He participates in executive boards, including the Border Security Technology Consortium, and serves as an Alumni Board Member for Arizona State University’s W. P. Carey School of Business.
