Our Mission
At THIRDRAIL Ventures, we specialize in connecting cutting-edge technology startups with defense contracts, fostering innovation in national security. Our expertise lies in navigating the intersection of private sector agility and government needs, ensuring that breakthrough technologies reach the frontlines where they matter most.
Who We Are
Robert Wentz, Managing Partner
Founding Partner, PointSquared Ventures
Robert Wentz is the founder of PointSquared Ventures investing in the technology and energy industries. Mr. Wentz previously served as the Executive Chairman of Allegheny Science & Technology (AST), an engineering and technology company supporting mission critical R&D efforts for the Department of Energy and Intelligence Agencies. He cofounded AST in 2009 and operated the 6-time INC 500 fastest growing company until his exit in 2020.
Prior to AST, Mr. Wentz founded Information Research Corporation (IRC) a software development and engineering firm supporting the Department of Defense and NASA. Mr. Wentz is a Computer and Electrical Engineering graduate of West Virginia University and earned his MBA from the WVU School of Business & Economics.
Josh Thiel, Advisor & Portfolio Mentor
EVP, Hinz AI Center of Excellence
Josh Thiel has over 20 years of experience as a COO/CTO, VP of Federal Sales, Entrepreneur, Commander of Army Special Operations Training, and Commander of all U.S. and NATO Special Forces in Afghanistan. Since 2010, Josh has developed solutions and leveraged technology for results-oriented performance. Josh is responsible for the buildout of Hinz’s AI Center of Excellence, with a specific focus on AI and Technology Consulting business and partnerships.
Patrick Farrell, Advisor & Portfolio Mentor
Founder, Savage Grant LLC
Patrick J. Farrell is the founder and president of Savage Grant, a holding company investing in Appalachia through the energy, infrastructure, and technology industries since 2013. Mr. Farrell served in the U.S. Air Force as an F-15E Strike Eagle Weapons Systems Officer. He is a decorated combat veteran and was awarded a Distinguished Flying Cross for Heroism. Mr. Farrell is a United States Air Force Academy graduate and earned his MBA from the Duke University Fuqua School of Business. He was elected the Huntington, WV Mayor in 2025.
Glenn Copen, Advisor & Portfolio Mentor
Director, REAXCOR Ventures
Glenn Copen brings 35+ years’ experience in strategic planning, growth, and executive management to REAXCOR. Mr. Copen, a certified Project Management Professional (PMP), has managed programs and projects for more than 15 government clients including NASA, FBI, Department of Labor, Department of Energy, Defense Information Systems Agency and NAVAIR. Mr. Copen has also led National Security research and development projects and prototyping in biometrics solutions. He has also led business development teams in the identification, qualification, and capture of opportunities across federal government and commercial spaces. At THIRDRAIL, Glenn will apply his breadth and depth of technology, growth processes, and managerial experience to the maturation and commercialization of dual use products.
What We Do
Venture Support
We invest in and advise early-stage technology startups, helping them navigate government procurement, secure funding, and scale for impact.
Defense Engagement
We connect innovative companies with defense agencies, translating commercial solutions into mission-ready capabilities.
Strategic Advisory
We provide insight on policy, funding, and regulatory landscapes to position emerging technologies for success in national security applications.
Contact
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