IAF is a boutique strategic consulting firm that helps organizations bring clarity to complex challenges and turn ideas into action. With deep experience in Arctic affairs, energy, and security, we help clients identify and capitalize on opportunities. Our work is guided by integrity, candor, and a focus on building a more secure and sustainable future.

Iris Ferguson founded IAF after two decades working across government, industry, and policy. She previously served as the inaugural U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for the Arctic & Global Resilience and held senior roles at the Air Force, Department of Commerce, and Senate Foreign Relations Committee. Her work with private industry has included developing U.S. and international market entrance strategies, stakeholder mapping, and geopolitical risk analysis.

Her career has focused on building what doesn’t yet exist — shaping federal strategy, standing up new organizations, aiding start-ups, developing partnerships, and launching initiatives in uncertain environments.