Col. Owen L. Roberts serves as Acquisition Program Manager for Operational Medical Systems within the Defense Health Agency. He is responsible for the development, acquisition management, and Joint Service integration of medical products and devices to ensure Warfighter readiness and lethality across the full spectrum of conflict. He oversees product transition from the technology base, through U.S. Food and Drug Administration approval, to full lifecycle management.
OPMED develops and delivers innovative medical products to protect, treat, and sustain deployed Joint Forces, directly enhancing their combat effectiveness. The program rapidly responds to urgent needs, addressing critical medical capability gaps identified by Combatant Commands and the Services, particularly in austere and logistically challenging environments. These capabilities provide a crucial tactical advantage, ensuring mission continuity in contested environments.
Prior to leading OPMED, Roberts served as the Joint Product Manager for Chemical Defense Pharmaceuticals within the Joint Program Executive Office for Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear Defense. His 22-year Army career also includes roles in military health, logistics, and acquisition. His service includes assignments as a medical platoon leader and deputy supply officer in Korea, a medical operations planner in Hawaii (including deployment during Operation Iraqi Freedom), and commander of B Company, Tripler Army Medical Center.
In 2013, Roberts made history by becoming the first Chief of Contracting for the DHA’s National Capital Region, setting a new standard in military contracting. His expertise led him to the role of Deputy Consultant for Medical Acquisitions to the Army Surgeon General, where he played a pivotal role in enhancing health care procurement. In 2020, he was chosen to join the COVID-19 Presidential Task Force, formerly known as Operation Warp Speed, a testament to his leadership during a critical time for our nation.
Roberts holds an MBA and a Master’s Degree in Strategic Studies from the U.S. Army War College. His military education includes Command and General Staff College and Defense Acquisition Workforce Improvement Act certifications in contracting and program management. His awards include the Legion of Merit, two Defense Meritorious Service Medals with three Oak Leaf Clusters, the Army Commendation Medal, the Iraq Campaign Medal, and the Expert Field Medical Badge, among others. He is also a member of the Order of Military Medical Merit.