Aaron Obrochta serves as Chief of Development at Achievement First, where he leads philanthropic strategy and public grant funding to support 15,000 students across three states. He brings nearly two decades of leadership experience spanning the military, education, and nonprofit sectors.

A former Naval Officer and Navy helicopter aircraft commander, Aaron transitioned to senior talent strategy roles at Ascend Public Charter Schools, where he helped steer organizational change with a strong focus on equity, culture, and impact. He’s passionate about building authentic partnerships with donors and funders to expand opportunities for students and their communities.

Aaron holds an MBA from NYU’s Stern School of Business and a master’s in Education Leadership from The Broad Center. He lives in New York with his wife and three boys and enjoys family adventures in the outdoors, rooting for his sons on the sidelines, and volunteering locally.