About SemperFlies

Jordan Helmken

USAF | Operations Manager

Jordan Helmken served in the United States Air Force, where he developed a strong foundation in network security and technical operations. His military background instilled discipline, precision, and problem-solving skills that he brings to every aspect of SemperFlies.

With a deep love for engineering and innovation, Jordan applies his technical expertise to optimize our farming operations and build robust systems. His passion for coding drives the digital infrastructure behind SemperFlies, from our e-commerce platform to our operational tools.

In his free time, Jordan channels his engineering creativity into building combat robots, combining his love of technology, design, and competitive spirit. This hands-on approach to innovation reflects his commitment to pushing boundaries and finding creative solutions to complex challenges.

T. Chad Montgomery

USMC | Strategic Research & Market Development

T. Chad Montgomery brings a wealth of expertise in sustainable agriculture and animal science to the field of insect farming. Holding an Animal Science degree, he combines academic knowledge with a profound passion for sustainability and practical experience.

His dedication to sustainable food systems is evident through his attendance and participation in numerous national organic, sustainable, and urban food conferences and workshops. Chad leverages his background in the hospitality sector, notably as a former Pastry Chef for Hilton Hotels in New York, where he pioneered the use of cricket protein in food applications. This innovative approach extended to collaborations with Georgia Southern University (GSU), where he has spoken on several occasions to Food Science students about insect protein and guided dietetic interns in developing high-protein insect desserts, ultimately leading to the formation of a hospitality company focused on this niche market, serving several notables, celebrities, and VIP clientele.

Beyond his professional endeavors, Chad is deeply committed to global and community service. He is a former board member of Cross World Africa, a non-profit dedicated to raising funds for goat and cow programs donated to villages in Kenya. His diplomatic efforts included delivering a Sister City agreement from the Mayor of Ithaca, NY, to the Mayor of Eldoret, Kenya, and supporting the Aquaponics program at Moi University in Kenya. He also held fishing workshops at Gold Medalist Kip Keino's HPTC High Performance Training Centre.

In his personal time, Chad is an accomplished professional Bass angler and has appeared as a guest on fishing TV shows. He shares his expertise by teaching kayaking and fishing skills to members of Scouting USA, as well as establishing several youth fishing workshops and programs.