Matthew Griffin is CEO and Cofounder of Combat Flip Flops, a footwear and clothing company that manufactures products in conflict and post conflict areas. Inspired by the positive impact created by entrepreneurs in conflict areas, Matt conceptualized the idea of Combat Flip Flops in 2009 and lead a team to create an internationally recognized brand with products manufactured in five nations. Profits from Combat Flip Flops have funded over 1000 Afghan girls in school and the clearance of over 20,000 square meters of landmines in Laos. Prior to Combat Flip Flops, Matt served as a company fire support officer in the 75th Ranger Regiment with four combined combat tours in Afghanistan and Iraq. In 2018, Matt was recognized by Real Leaders magazine as one of the world’s top 100 Global Visionaries and by HillVets100 as one of the 100 most influential veterans in America. In 2016, Puget Sound Business Journal recognized Matt in the 40 under 40 business leader recognition. Matt serves on the advisory board for Aid Afghanistan for Education and executive director for Forty Six & 2 Transitions. Previously, he served as the operations officer for special operations medical non-profit, Team-5 foundation. Matt holds a BS in engineering management from the United States Military Academy at West Point. He recently co-authored the business and leadership book, Steps Ascending: Rise of the Unarmed Forces. Matt is a member of the 2019 Class of Henry Crown Fellows within the Aspen Global Leadership Network at the Aspen Institute.