
BLACKSBURG, VA—Bryan Watson represented Bid4R Lab at the Pat Tillman Foundation’s Touchstone Leadership Program, a two-day intensive led by Beneath the Service and hosted at Virginia Tech (February 20–21, 2026).
The program brought together Pat Tillman Fellows from across disciplines for structured leadership development and cohort engagement. Sessions included Program Kickoff, Leading with DISC, Strategic Influence, Crafting & Delivering Strategic Content, Practical AI Use for Leaders, Effective Teaming, and Overcoming Immunity to Change. The format combined formal instruction, applied exercises, small-group work, and networking opportunities.

The Touchstone experience emphasizes practical leadership tools designed for immediate application across sectors. Participation provided opportunities to engage with fellows spanning medicine, law, science, engineering, and business, reinforcing the interdisciplinary nature of the Tillman community.
Bid4R Lab remains committed to leadership development alongside technical excellence. Experiences such as Touchstone strengthen the lab’s mentoring culture and support the continued development of students and collaborators.
Thank you to Virginia Tech, Dr. Deborah Bradbard, Pat Tillman Foundation, and Beneath the Service for hosting and facilitating the program.

