Breaking Defense is pleased to welcome Carley Welch to its team of exceptional journalists covering defense and national security, as the new beat reporter for Networks & Digital Warfare.

In this role, Welch will serve as the point person covering the transformative impact of networks and cutting-edge technology in shaping a new era in defense. Among the topics covered by this beat are networks, information technology, communications, command and control, cyber offense and defense, electronic warfare, and the Pentagon’s outreach to the commercial tech community.

Welch joins Breaking Defense after stops at The Messenger and Politico. She was a contributor on the Washington Post’s 2022 Pulitzer Prize winning investigation into the events of Jan. 6, 2021, and as well as the Post’s “Broken Doors” podcast which was a 2023 Pulitzer finalist for Audio Reporting. She has a master’s degree in journalism and public affairs with a concentration in investigative journalism from American University and is a graduate of James Madison University.

“I’m excited to add Carley to the team. She’s bringing a keen intellect and high energy to this role,” said Breaking Defense Editor in Chief Aaron Mehta. “In addition to continuing our excellent coverage of the Pentagon and industry’s approach to networked capabilities, Carley will bring a new emphasis on the way these technologies are being used in the battlefield on a daily basis.”

“We’re delighted to bring a talent like Carley on board. She has the smarts, energy and aptitude for this beat, a growth area in defense which is very important to Breaking Defense,” said David Smith, Publisher and Managing Director. “We’re excited to add Carley to our industry-leading team of journalists and look forward to great things to come from her in this pivotal reporting beat.”

Welch joins the team on May 6. She can be reached at [email protected].