Chinneaqua “Ray” Matthews is an accomplished business strategist, government contracting expert, national security professional, and entrepreneur with a passion for helping organizations and individuals navigate complex challenges with confidence. As the Founder and CEO of VXL, LLC, Ray combines years of experience in federal contracting, proposal development, industrial security, compliance, and business development to help companies compete, grow, and build sustainable organizations.

With a career spanning both the public and private sectors, Ray has advised businesses ranging from startups to established government contractors on strategic growth, capture planning, proposal development, risk management, teaming strategies, and regulatory compliance. Her professional experience in national security has provided her with a unique perspective on leadership, governance, organizational resilience, and protecting critical assets while balancing innovation and operational excellence.

Ray holds a Master of Business Administration from the University of Arizona, along with a bachelor’s degree from Old Dominion University and an associate degree from Tidewater Community College. She also maintains respected security credentials, including the Security Fundamentals Professional Certification (SFPC) and Industrial Security Oversight Certification (ISOC), reflecting her commitment to professional excellence and continuous learning.

Beyond her corporate experience, Ray is a recognized educator, mentor, and speaker who is passionate about making government contracting more accessible to small businesses, women-owned businesses, minority-owned businesses, and first-generation entrepreneurs. Through workshops, webinars, and keynote presentations, she breaks down complicated procurement processes into practical strategies that attendees can immediately apply. Her engaging presentation style blends real-world experience with actionable insights, equipping audiences with the tools and confidence to pursue new opportunities.

Ray frequently speaks on topics including government contracting, proposal writing, business development, entrepreneurship, artificial intelligence for small businesses, leadership, compliance, strategic partnerships, and organizational growth. She is especially known for helping professionals transition from traditional employment into entrepreneurship while leveraging their existing skills and expertise. Her presentations inspire audiences to think strategically, embrace innovation, and create systems that generate long-term value.

In addition to her consulting work, Ray is actively developing technology solutions that simplify business operations and expand access to opportunity. Her work reflects a strong belief that technology should empower people, not replace them, and that artificial intelligence, when used responsibly, can become a powerful tool for improving decision-making and business performance.

Whether speaking to corporate executives, government agencies, nonprofit organizations, universities, or aspiring entrepreneurs, Ray brings authenticity, practical knowledge, and an engaging energy that resonates with audiences of all backgrounds.

Her mission is simple: to equip people with the knowledge, strategies, and confidence they need to lead effectively, build thriving organizations, and create lasting impact in their communities. She believes that great leadership is rooted in service, integrity, and the willingness to create opportunities that empower others to succeed.